A few years back, after Michael Brent Boyd purchased his historic farm in rural Pennsylvania, it quickly became apparent that the house and property already had a few existing residents. For generations, a family of local squirrels has called the spot home.
The current patriarch of that fluffy-tailed group is a squirrel whom Boyd named Rusty.
Rusty’s a bit of a freeloader.
Michael Brent Boyd
Though Rusty is perfectly capable of foraging for his own food, Boyd’s moving in has made life a breeze. Boyd keeps his chickens’ food well stocked, and Rusty never misses an opportunity to help himself. Bird feeders around the property offer even more easy snacks.
“I decided early on to live with my squirrels rather than to fret over them,” Boyd told The Dodo.
But Rusy’s apparent sense of owning the place has come with some adorable upsides.
Michael Brent Boyd
In the afternoon, after Rusty’s gotten his fill of food meant for others, he’ll invariably settle in for a nap on Boyd’s windowsill — offering an up-close look at his life of comfort and ease.
Rusty doesn’t seem to have a care in the world.
Michael Brent Boyd
From his vantage point looking through the window, Boyd has had the opportunity to observe not only Rusty’s life of minimal responsibilities. He’s also gotten a peek into his love life.
Before long, Rusty began bringing his girlfriend to the windowsill — a squirrel Boyd named Argent.
Michael Brent Boyd
“I really consider it a treat when they decide to relax there,” Boyd said.
The squirrels can likely see Boyd (and his dog) peering out at them, but they hardly seem to care.
“Rusty and Argent seem to be particularly comfortable with being observed, and I dare say I think they even perform a bit,” Boyd said.
Michael Brent Boyd
The windowsill is a peaceful refuge for Rusty and his girlfriend after an afternoon of nibbling on free snacks. And Boyd wouldn’t have it any other way.
He’s the latest steward of the property, which dates back to the Revolutionary War era. And there’s a good chance Rusty’s lineage on the property stretches back just as far.
Michael Brent Boyd
“Anyone with a kind and open heart would enjoy watching squirrels at their home. The key is to let them do their own thing,” Boyd said. “I just enjoy watching them be squirrels in the way they like best.”
