Animal farms

We visited a musk ox farm and were given a tour that was fascinating.  I had never seen this animal up close - it really isn't an ox, but a goat.   Their underwool is 8 times warmer than sheep's wool, and the Native peoples have exclusive rights to weave and sell it.  There were many items on display that were so soft and warm, and incredibly expensive!   The wool is called quiviut (ki'-vee-ut).

Click on a picture to enlarge.

The musk ox is a beautiful animal and seems to be very gentle.  The red buildings in the background are where people stay who come to help with their care.

Next we went to a reindeer farm.

This new baby and his mom were so cute.  I think he isn't more than a day old. 

There were also other animals that the kids enjoyed - the chickens and the hog.  I note that I have a couple of photos I could call "The End", but that is Judy's (Bird Lady) thing.

 The reindeer are in a huge pen, and next to them is Dolly, the bison. The guide told us that Dolly is very gentle as she has never been around animals other than reindeer and considers herself one of them.

I don't want to bore anyone with too many photos, so please allow me to continue with the reindeer in tomorrow's post.

Another word about the weather in Alaska.   It was mostly in the 60's which was wonderful after the triple digits in Sacramento.  I wore my fleece jacket much of the first few days and was very comfortable.  The rain is sporadic - off and on - and was never very heavy.  When the sun came out it was the most glorious sight, and everything took on a new look.  I find a similar experience in Sacramento during the rainy season (of which we don't have many these days).  The rain is needed and welcome, but if the sun comes out it is a gift, if only a brief view.

Speaking of weather, my son Mike told me they left Sacramento at 109F and arrived in Monterey a couple hours later where it was 59F!   What a change.

I'll post again tomorrow.