The Groundhog in the Stairwell

I saw this little groundhog walk past the patio door this afternoon.  I grabbed my camera and ran outside.  He was caught in the breezeway as the little red gate was closed.  Got his head stuck between the little slats in the gate.  I went over to the gate and scared him so much he pulled his head out and ran down the steps to the basement.  I decided to just back up and give him some space.  Talked to him for a few minutes even though I couldn't see him.  Finally he came to the top of the steps, peeked out and then ran away as fast as he could.  Loved having a new little visitor today.