Went on a wolf patrol on one of the sheep/elk wintering ranges yesterday. The good news, not a fresh wolf track to be found. (Although a wolf in the sights would be nice, I'm still happy to know that they are not bothering the critters on that particular range).
My hunt turned into a photo session when I ran into a friendly face. After a long hike up, I got as close as I dared without pushing the old guy and got a few pictures of the ram I named Buster. It was a phenomenal feeling to again be in the company of a truly amazing animal. I also photographed him on this range last march. I soaked in the experience, including a great view and fresh air, then left him enjoy his meal.
He is unfortunately losing his left horn due to a chip that has started to rot. I photographed a ram with a similar issue a couple years ago, and the biologist seemed to think that it was a fungal issue. He is at least 12 years old, if not 13.
My hunt turned into a photo session when I ran into a friendly face. After a long hike up, I got as close as I dared without pushing the old guy and got a few pictures of the ram I named Buster. It was a phenomenal feeling to again be in the company of a truly amazing animal. I also photographed him on this range last march. I soaked in the experience, including a great view and fresh air, then left him enjoy his meal.
He is unfortunately losing his left horn due to a chip that has started to rot. I photographed a ram with a similar issue a couple years ago, and the biologist seemed to think that it was a fungal issue. He is at least 12 years old, if not 13.