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[Scrapinator]

Since this was a day off, I'm not doing this as a trip report. It is more a series of random shots from wildlife viewing. We decided to go to Horseshoe Park on our day off to see if there were any wildlife. First, just beyond the Deer Mountain turn off we saw movement on the side of the road. Lo and behold, a beautiful cinnamon bear emerged from our right and scurried into the underbrush before I could get a shot. It was really close to one of the scenic turn offs (I think the CCC one) and there were people in the parking area. I think he was crossing the road to get away from the people. It is always a privilege to see brown bears and this is my second time seeing one. Wish I had gotten that shot, though.

We continued on to Horseshoe Park and our luck on wildlife viewing continued. There were two Bighorn at the lakes, a ewe and a young ram. They started out each in a different area, but eventually joined up for some communal grazing.









There was also a ubiquitous ground squirrel. There was a ranger there who absolutely despised "the little devils." He lives in Estes and they tear up his yard. I, however, think they are darn cute.



After watching for a while and because the crowds were gathering in the parking area, we decided to move on to the Alluvial Fan. As we were heading down the section of FRR heading to the Alluvial Fan parking area, we saw this wonderful Dusky Grouse. They seemed to be following me (after seeing the mother and young the day before). I didn't see any young with this one, but that's not to say they weren't there hiding in the underbrush.





We arrived at the Alluvial Fan and even though this is primarily about the animals, I'll throw in one shot of the Fan.



My final critter is a little guy who had found quite a lookout post and was, I'm sure, looking for handouts (none from me).

Edited by Scrapinator, 18 August 2011 - 03:45 PM.

[Igloo Ed]

Nice picture of the grouse, perfect focus.

[John]

Great Grouse Almighty! Love it!

[Monica]

I'm glad you had such good luck for the wildlife viewing on your day off.
Excellent shots.

[reeves]

Great shots. Those bighorn in the summer can look really rough loosing all that winter hair.

[jflo]

Nice shots!!!