come fight me like a squirrel

This squirrel was ready to take me on. He scampered down the tree, and while he didn't seem to be afraid of me, I think my camera bothered him.My timing wasn't the best because I picked the middle of the day. The clouds finally left, the rain stopped, and I considered myself fortunate not to have some heavy shadows. I used the smaller lens because it can zoom in farther (though I've given hints what I want for my birthday - and thanks, Bob, for pointing it out to me!) and capture what would be out of range for my other lenses.I enjoy walking around the neighborhood and being the wildlife peeping tom, looking for whose got out birdfeeders and squirrel food. Then later (especially when I think nobody is home), I stake out the place hoping for a bit of action.On this particular day I got more action than I bargained for. Not only did I get screamed at by this opinionated squirrel, but while I sat in the homeowners yard - on a tarp I set out with my drink and munchies, they just happened to come home.I tried to sputter an expaination, gather my things, and beat a hasty retreat, but fortunately, they are wildlife lovers themselves. What could've been a horrible experience turned into something good because I was able to identify two birds that have been feeding at their feeders, plus they'd seen the Northern Flicker several times, and while they knew he was a woodpecker, they knew little about them - including their name.As a result, I now have permission to make myself comfortable in their yard whether they are there or not. The one promise I made: if I get a really decent photo, they get a free large print.When I think about it, I've been really fortunate because there about five different houses where I make myself at home in their yards. One is very much aware of me - make that two, now. The other three never seem to be there; however, since the feeders are usually full, I assume I just haven't seen the owners.I wonder, though, if it would be easier to take a collaspible chair with me - not that it would make an explaination any easier if the owner came home before I can leave. My best hope is that they would be honored and since they obviously feed the critters, they might not take offense, especially if I offer them a photo.The only one that remained perturbed was this squirrel that challenged me to a duel. Sadly, I don't know how to fight like a squirrel, but I've got a distinct feeling he wouldn't mind showing me how - not that I doubt for a single moment he'd cheat!