Date: Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:41:41 -0400
From: Karen Scriven
Subject: Woodland Screams
We are new to living in the woods and, naturally, have some questions.
Last july, when we first moved into our new home, we heard some loud and pretty scary screams in the woods at dawn. The noise was almost human, guranteed to get your attention. We’ve heard the same sound a few times since, always at night, usually near dawn. We thought maybe it was a screech owl (never heard one before, but it seemed logical, what with screaming noises and all). Then we thought it could be an unhappy bobcat.
Never heard one of those either. Someone told us it was a deer in rutting mode. We Never knew deer could be so enthusiastic, but why not, except that the first time we heard it, it wasn’t rutting season.
I’m hoping some veteran local Woodsies can clear up the mystery.
Tim
Regarding Woodland Screams, the closest thing I’ve ever seen and heard resembling a baby crying or young child screaming is a rabbit being caught by either a fox or coyote. The first time you hear it, it sends chills down your spine but then you realize it’s mother nature’s dinner time.