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UNO
© 2011 - William C. Highsmith
The Okefenokee Swamp straddles the South Georgia and North Florida border. The largest "blackwater" swamp in North America is populated by many dangerous creatures such as panthers, bob-cats, wolves, black bears, snakes, and the alligator - a throwback to prehistoric times. Also, there are lots of 'no threats' such as frogs, wading birds, turtles, and small animals like opossums, rabbits, raccoons, and squirrels. Life is hard in the wild.

Sergeant Bob Carpenter retired from the Jacksonville, Florida's police department and moved to his home on the edge of the swamp. He brought with him Mr. Carson - also retired. Mr. Carson was forced to retire when he was shot while tracking a suspect. He had performed well as an officer on the same police force. In fact, Sergeant Carpenter was his handler. Mr. Carson was a blood-hound named after the legendary scout and trapper Kit Carson of the old West. The dog was a gentle and well-behaved animal left with a breathing problem from the shooting. Now, he was simply a beloved family pet and watch-dog.

Mr. Carson had grown used to a variety of animals coming out of the swamp to the property of his boss. Many times they were small creatures trying to escape a predator. It seemed they instinctively knew there was safety in the proximity of these humans. They were correct. Bob Carpenter had made a career of protecting those who could not defend themselves. He realized those who live by predation had to eat too. However, if an animal made it to the confines of his property, he would endeavor to help it escape the menu. Uno was one of the fortunate.

"Grandpa, what happened to his ear?" asked Timmy.

"Well, boy, he lost it to an old bob-cat. He is lucky that is all he lost," answered Bob.

"Can I pet him?" asked the eight year old.

"No, No - he is still a wild rabbit. You could not even approach him. He would flee back into the woods and be in danger again. We never try to get too close."

"Do you feed him?"

"We occasionly put out some rabbit food from the feed store. However, he usually finds enough on his own."

"Has he got a name?"

"Yes - we call him Uno. It is a Spanish word meaning one. Since he only has one ear, your Grandmother suggested we call him Uno."

"Well, he seems to be satisfied. Has he got a wife?" asked the boy.

"I think he has eyes for a little brown female that stays near the barn."

By William C. Highsmith - August 4, 2011