Prairie dogs, small, burrowing rodents native to the grasslands of North America, are fascinating creatures that play a crucial role in their ecosystems. They are known for their complex social structures and sophisticated communication systems. Prairie dogs belong to the squirrel family and are closely related to ground squirrels, chipmunks, and marmots. There are five … Continue reading POTW: Black-tailed Prairie Dog
The National Elk Refuge, established in 1912, is a beacon of natural preservation and wildlife management in the United States. Situated in the heart of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, this refuge provides a critical winter habitat for one of the largest elk (Cervus canadensis) herds on Earth, along with many other wildlife species. Spanning over 24,700 … Continue reading POTW: National Elk Refuge
Independence Pass, located in Colorado, embodies the rugged spirit and natural beauty that defines the American West. Straddling the Continental Divide at an elevation of 12,095 feet, it is among the highest paved mountain passes in the United States and aptly named after the nearby Independence ghost town, which sprang up during the mining boom … Continue reading POTW: Independence Pass
Teton Sunsets, Grand Teton National Park is a breathtaking expanse of majestic peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Grand Teton National Park is renowned for the towering Teton Range, which rises dramatically from the Jackson Hole Valley, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Grand Teton, the highest peak in the … Continue reading POTW: Teton Sunsets
A walk in the woods... John Muir says it best, “In every walk in nature one receives far more than he seeks.” Stella and I seek new adventures as often as we can, we spent Christmas 2021 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and ventured into the woods up on Rabbit Ears Pass. The pass is named … Continue reading POTW: A Walk in the Woods…
Wildlife Wednesday, the pika, a small but remarkable alpine mammal, plays a vital role in its mountainous ecosystem. They are known for their distinct whistling calls and adorable appearance. Pikas are incredible in their ability to adapt to life in the harsh alpine and subalpine environments. They inhabit talus slopes, rocky outcrops, and boulder fields, … Continue reading POTW: Wildlife Wednesday
The gallivanting moose, as photographed inside Rocky Mountain National Park. The park covers over 415 square miles and is a breathtaking mosaic of alpine meadows, dense forests, rugged peaks, and pristine lakes. Rocky Mountain National Park's diverse ecosystems provide the ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife, including the moose. Here, the moose is emblematic … Continue reading POTW: The Gallivanting Moose