YELLOWSTONE'S WILD WORLD

Headed into the park early this morning in the red glow of sunrise, just for a day in the park.  My only certain plan was a hike and the rest I would take as it came.

Well, first up was pure cuteness, close to the road.  Finally, I got to see Rosie’s cubs and it was easy to see why folks were spending so much time with them, as they are adorable and adventurous.  Lots of playing and that always makes the show fun.

I was able to park in a way that enabled me to shoot from the car.  I’m just too well known to be able to stand with the rest of the photographers when the bears are close and so play it safe as often as possible.  Though, I was out of the car for a few shots first thing.  Gotta keep things honest!

Well, this little family was addicting and tough to leave so I hung out for awhile.  The crowd did grow and grow and some folks were having a hard time seeing the bears so I left my parking space so they would have more room.  Had my time with the family.  They all crossed the road in a curve, which was scary.  When they returned they used the culvert.  Sure wish the park would put more of those in, large enough for the animals.

Went towards Lamar and did see one of the Junction gray yearlings in Little America.  Sure was a pretty wolf!

In Lamar the Mollies were on Dead Puppy Hill, across from the den area, and the Lamars were way up high on Druid Peak.  While I was hiking up at Trout Lake I was able to hear the Lamars howl but could not hear the Mollies return.  They were talking to one another.  Some thought that the Lamars were moving but Rick did not think so.  Time will tell – hoping that those pups are safe!

While at Trout Lake I tried to carry my tripod up a very short hill but the mud was so slick that I got stuck.  Had to call out for help and luckily there was a couple close by.  They tried to help me but I just wanted them to save the camera!   Once they got the tripod, I slid downhill, so calling for help was one of my best ideas!   It was nice and quiet for a little while up there and then the rain came.  So, I slipped and slid back down the hill.

Took a drive down to Hayden and didn’t see much at all.   Other than the grizzly down at Thumb Creek and the distant sow with three coy, nothing much has been seen in the south.  I did happen upon the Wapiti alphas hunting elk in Hayden Valley but only got to see them for a second.  Also spotted a cow with a brand new calf.  That was it for me in the south and I headed back over Dunraven.  Rosie was not out and I continued on to Lamar Valley.

The Mollies were hunting elk on the south side of Norris – a long distance view but still pretty impressive.  And, some of the Junctions were being seen at the den area.  The pups are staying down low, away from the den, quite a lot now, and so are more difficult to see.

Still looking for pronghorn and big horn babies!

Another good day in the park.