Baltimore Zoo*

Warm weather having arrived in Ballimore, we recently decided to visit our local zoo. As it was opening weekend, some of the exhibits were not yet ready for prime time, but it was an extensive offering nonetheless. Representing the local farms and wetlands are regal Mallards

a miniature Cow

un Pollo loco


and a couple of dinky Donkeys.


More exotic residents include this fine Ostrich,


a thirsty Rhinoceros,


a neat Zebra,


and a wavy-horned Elk thing.


A Giraffe made us laugh.


This Leopard did not mess around.


And a more ladylike Warthog will never be found.


Penguins were having some fun in the sun.


A Chimpanzee bride was grooming her love.


A slender Elephant did a two-step as we looked on from above.


On the whole, the Baltimore Zoo is a great place to spend a sunny day. It's not going to make you forget the San Diego or Atlanta Zoos, but as you can see, the animals were all well cared-for and in good spirits. We're planning to go again to see it in mid-season swing.

The End.


*Rhymetastic post by Benford.

Sprang

This morning, I was thrilled to see that Spring weather had finally arrived in Baltimore. Though it turned out to be a bit on the gale force windy side, that didn't stop your intrepid Baltimorians from getting out and documenting the highly anticipated arrival of the season. You can click on the pictures to enlarge them, though I recommend doing this judiciously. Some details are best avoided.

Our first proof of Spring greeted us from the sidewalk:

A sure sign of twitterpation. Though I must dock these Spring enthusiasts points for littering, I was pleased to see that they did not merely have safe sex - they had safe sex with a Spring-hued condom! Seasonally appropriate prophylactics!

Speaking of things involving semen*, the Bradford Pears are in riotous bloom.

This beauty happens to be in front of a house that we covet, so if you're looking for a last minute gift for Benford's birthday, I can put you in touch with a few realtors.

There are also cherry trees:

And gorgeous Japanese Magnolias:

Spring in Baltimore. It's lovely, hon.


*If you've never smelled a Bradford Pear in bloom, well, let's just say that most of you would probably be able to place the scent.