Zip stays clear of the dog yard behind the house; Bud, in particular, wants him to go away.

We were surprised as we raked up leaves in the backyard to see Zip appear on top of the pile of wood we’d just stacked for the winter. He wasn’t the least bit intimidated and just stared at the dogs for an hour or so. They seemed to get used to it. Zip is interesting because he is wary but also fearless at the same time. After a while, Bud stopped staring.

I predict a long life for Zip as a barn cat.  He is especially bright and aware of what he can do and what he can’t. He has no hesitation about exploring every corner of the farm, which sure makes for great photos. Maria says he just wanted to be near me, but I think he was quite happy where he was.