Entry for the Shadow Contest/SMASh, round 253

I am happy to join again and enter the #SMASh contest. Link to the contest - Shadow Hunters/SMASh Contest- Round 253, although I am sure you've already known. This contest is so popular. Mind you, this is round 253!

So, here we go with my entry photo. A shadow of a squirrel.

My choice for the shadow came unexpectedly. I was in the park, the Sea Garden, in late December. It was a pleasant day and after I made the photo session of swans and seagulls on the beach, I decided to spend another hour or so in the park and to search for more birds. While I was carefully observing the trees, the squirrel appeared in front of my nose. Well, not so close, but in a fare distance. I always forget to put some walnuts or peanuts in my bag. It would be much better to have something to give to my model, who spent some quality time, posing not just for me. Other people noticed me and stopped with their phones to capture it.

Squirrels are sort of attraction, for me at least. Their number is small and in some places they maybe a pest, but in our park they are hardly to be seen. I know they are there and it is not just luck to see them. Perhaps if I spend more time in the park, I could encounter them more often.

Next photo is overexposed and the fur is more golden rather reddish. Hence its name - the Red Squirrel.

And there it is with tail in shape of question mark. That is how the squirrels are drawn in children's books.

And one last look in front. Did you see the white patch? Their underparts are white.

Previously, when I tried to photograph a squirrel, the little bugger did not stay put , but this time I had plenty of time for photos (I made probably 50 at least) and just to enjoy watching it.

Wish you all good luck!