“Nature’s Beauty helps heal the cluttered mind” author unknown.

We recently went to Hideaway Ranch and Refuge in Bluff Dale Texas. One thing about being a birder is that you find various species everywhere. We don’t have cardinals in Alaska and I was very excited to see a LOT of cardinals here. 

Cardinals are said to be a represenattive of a loved one who has passed. Father’s Day was coming up and my father was on my mind with every cardinal I seen. They usually show up when you most need or miss the loved one. I guess I was missing my Dad a lot but they let you know that person will always be with you as well. 

There were many  other birds such as the blue-gray gnatcatcher and lark sparrows but I was especially excited to see painted buntings on our walks. 

As with most birders, I love other animals and wildlife too and this refuge has plenty ! When we pulled up to our cabin long horned cattle and plains bison were in the yard to welcome us!

Lots of goats were at the check in and check out area. Who doesnt love to watch baby goats play and climb trees ! There was Rupert the hound dog who was so sweet and escorted us around the yard. Horses to see and get to know. 

All the animals are free range but well watched over. If an animal is in a corral, it’s for its health sake to get nutrients needed. Truely a place of refuge for animals of all sorts, this spot makes a walk interesting and unique. 

We seen llamas  up close and personal. Lamas have declined rapidly in numbers since 2017. Plains Bison are still considerd threatened and these animals depend heavily on conservation efforts for survival.

We had visited this location 13 years ago and it has evolved into an even better  place to stop and unwind, letting nature heal a cluttered mind. Truely a refuge for animals and people alike. Cabins in most places are right next to each other but the Hideaway Ranch and Refuge has plenty of space and trees between cabins. This is a must experience place. 

My first memory as a child was my Dad taking me to see cows and other animals in a barn and I was in awe and wonder at how long the cow tongues were. I guess nature has stuck with me. I love all animals, wild and tame and those in between. I’m also thankful that wherever I am there are always birds and I am thankful for the love of nature and animals instilled in me from my parents at a young age.

Check out the animal pictures on the Hideaway Ranch and Refuge gallery link. I’ll be getting my facebook page up and running soon and will have more pictures there later. This site it still new and lots more work to do !