Good Morning

My trip to Bear River MBR was cut short today by a dashboard glowing with tire pressure warnings.

On the bright side,  there was also a pleasant moment: even before returning home a bold beauty walked right up and gave me a warm five-second curious stare. 

Generally, life is good.

Notes to Self. Characters - I

It was very unusual to be under the gaze of the cows who were standing and watching me.

Most likely out of fear, I started talking to them, but the most surprising thing was that the cows "listened". Yes, they "listened" attentively, and some even tried to  stretch out their heads from behind the backs of other cows. 

It was at those moments that I suddenly thought that it would be nice to try to make their portraits.

 

Cows have distinct personalities, just like people and other animals. Some are more curious and playful, while others are shy or even a bit stubborn. This herd turned out to be bold, curious and  sociable.

Generally, life is good.

Portrait of American Bison

 

American Bison have poor eyesight, especially for long distances. However, they compensate for this with an excellent sense of smell and keen hearing. 

Their limited vision means they rely more on detecting movement and scents to sense danger or find food.

***

I was asked recently: "Are you shooting from a car, or is it safe to be on foot while photographing the bison?"  

Photographing bison is always unpredictable adventure because you never know what's on minds of bison.  Sometimes I stay in my car if bison are very close. 

There are situations when I am walking towards a bison but keeping a safe distance. Generally, photographing bison on foot is okey, but you have to be very careful. These animals can be dangerous and they run fast.

Generally, life is good. 

Portrait of American Bison

 The portrait of this bison appeared completely by accident.  

The bison was close to other bison who were not going to leave and I decided to shoot according to the situation. Later I cropped the photo and ended up with a strange portrait which, to my surprise, I liked.

By the way, if you notice the bison has a small RFID tag in one of his ears. This is his permanent identifier and links it to bison's computer records that contain his health information.

Generally, life is good.

On the Country Roads - III. But First, Towels

and then lunch...

Life goes on.

Cows at the Bear River MBR

It's a little bit odd to see cattle at the Bear River MBR during summer but the cows were placed in the bird refuge during summer months for a very important reason.  They fight against phragmites, an invasive plant known as a common reed. 

Phragmites grow very quickly, choking native plants that give food and nesting for birds in the refuge.  

Unfortunately,  cows can't stop phragmites from growing but their grazing helps to slow down the spread of phragmites.

Generally, life is good!

Curious Teenager

He stepped out of the sage bushes onto the road, skinny and very young, and immediately as soon as he saw me disappeared again in the bushes. But his curiosity was stronger that caution.

Generally, life is good!