Ermine or Short-tailed Weasel

I think that I photographed a Short-tailed Weasel, also known as the ermine, but I am not entirely sure. 

In the winter, ermine weasels typically have a white coat with a light brown or reddish-brown back. They are known for their ability to change their fur, where in colder months they develop a white winter coat to blend into their snowy surroundings. 

However, their back stays brownish, giving them that reddish-brown appearance.

Generally, life is good.

Great Egrets on The Bear River MBR

 

There were a few Great Egrets in the bird refuge two days ago but unfortunately they were far away. It took a long time to wait until two of them came a little closer to the shore.  And they were inseparable!

Generally, life is good.

Common Carp

 

This morning, while watching and photographing pelicans my attention was drawn to this large fish. Apparently, it's a Common Carp.

Generally, life is good.

Sandhill Crane at Bear River MBR

Seeing Sand Hill Cranes on the Bear River during summer is a rarity. On that August morning there were two of them. One of them kept a distance while the other was rather brave and got closer.

Looking at this photo now, I think that the Crane was a female.  She was very feminine and elegant.  Although it is possible that I am wrong.

Life goes on.

The Rainbow

This morning greeted me in the desert with thunderclouds, peals of thunder, lightning piercing the sky and rain which pleased nature for a few minutes with  desired moisture and the rainbow that lit up the mountains and the sky.

Generally, life is good!

Hiding in the Thickets of Swamp

 

Herons usually prefer to hide in the thickets of the swamps at Bear River MBR and they do it so skillfully that I usually end up with very disappointing photos.

I always tried to avoid the cluttered backgrounds but a few days ago I gave them a chance to work as they are. I am sure that some photographers can find those backgrounds distracting but I like them because they show the birds in natural habitat.

A Black-crowned Heron found such a secure place that at the beginning I could hardly see his face.  Luckily, he moved slightly to the left and stretched his head.   

The Heron likes this spot especially in early mornings. He usually takes a short rest there before he will go on hunt. 

 A Great Blue is hiding in the reeds.

The same Great Blue Heron showed up in all his glory against the blue sky and I was able to get a classic portrait of it.  

Generally, life is good!