Chipmunk on a Pumpkin 10-18-2012

Setting up autumn decorations out on the porch usually invites curious backyard wildlife, and this bold little chipmunk wasted no time inspecting the seasonal harvest. Watching from a short distance with my camera ready allowed me to capture the quick critter pausing momentarily on top of a bright orange pumpkin.

The composition locks sharp focus on the chipmunk perched on the pumpkin stem, highlighting crisp details in its striped fur, tiny paws, and bright dark eye. The warm orange gourd fills the lower frame, backed by soft autumn garden flowers that dissolve into a smooth, colorful blur of fall tones.