Mango Madness

Our mango tree budded early this year. The first blossoms popped out in February due, no doubt, to a warm winter. White Peacock Butterflies like the one above flitted among chartreuse buds and pink blossoms in search of tropical nectar. Two more bloomings yielded a tree peppered with various sized fruit, temptingly dangling on long magenta stems.

The first fruit seem agonizingly slow in maturing. As a result, my husband and I assumed the mango watch. Each morning on arising we dash outside to examine the tree for ripe mangos. When we find one it’s rushed into the house for safe keeping. Why, you might ask, is this bizarre behavior necessary?

First, mangos take premier place as the most luscious fruit on earth. As proof of our infatuation, lunches over the past two weeks have only consisted of tall ice cold mango smoothies. There are some great mango smoothie recipes online. I like to make mine with a cold or frozen mango, a banana, the juice from a fresh orange, and 1/2 cup of plain yogurt. My husband enjoys added ice. Sometimes I include other fruit such as fresh pineapple, strawberries, or blackberries. Spin it all in your blender and you have the most delicious, nutritious drink imaginable. Chef Allen Susser, the Mango Man and spokesman for the National Mango Board, has posted a variety of gourmet mango recipes on their site.

Secondly, we’re not the only area residents who lust after mangoes’ sweet flesh. Two gangs of thieves have invaded our private property in quest of tree born treasure. Fortunately, we’ve managed to identify the ringleader of the primary gang—the Fangs. I’ve posted the scoundrel’s mug shot below. Should you spot this intruder, please notify the proper authorities.

While the Fangs usually strike in early morning hours, the Peckers operate throughout the day. Brazenly they rush in yelling, “Thief, thief, “as if we couldn’t discern their intent. They’re the strike and run, or should I say fly, type. Peck a hole in the plumpest mango on the tree and then split. That’s their M.O.

Desperation has forced my husband and me to formulate and propose various security measures including use of the power wash hose, blowguns, and painting each mango with chipolte pepper sauce. Unfortunately, each plan has its drawbacks. If you know of a better offensive tactic, please get in touch.

Note: For an update on our mango saga, see Mango Munchies.

Tags: birds, fruit, frustration, Humor, Photography, plants, squirrels, Writing

• May 9, 2008
• Humor, Life, Nature, Photography, Writing
• 8 Comments