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
Sandhill cranes (Antigone canadensis) are captivating avian creatures that grace the skies and landscapes of North America with their majestic presence. With their distinctive appearance, intriguing behaviors, and vital ecological roles, these elegant birds have become a symbol of natural beauty and resilience. We were fortunate enough to see an adult sandhill crane with its … Continue reading POTW: Sandhill Cranes
The American Bison (Bison bison), often referred to as the buffalo, is an iconic symbol of North America's natural heritage and a cornerstone species of the continent's history. These massive herbivores once roamed the plains, grasslands, and forests from Canada to Mexico, numbering in the tens of millions. The ecological significance of bison continues to … Continue reading POTW: American Bison
The mountain goat (Oreamnos americanus), also known as the Rocky Mountain goat, is a large hoofed mammal that resides in the mountainous regions of North America. What truly sets mountain goats apart is their unparalleled agility. Their hooves are equipped with specialized features, including rough, rubbery pads that provide exceptional grip on slippery surfaces. This … Continue reading POTW: Mountain Goat
The Great Egret (Ardea alba) is a majestic and elegant wading bird belonging to the heron family, Ardeidae. It is also known as the Common Egret, Large Egret, or White Heron. The species is found inhabiting both freshwater and saltwater environments, including marshes, swamps, lakes, rivers, and coastal regions. They are skilled hunters and use … Continue reading POTW: Great Egret
The Black Hills of South Dakota welcomed us with a rainy cloak over the Memorial Day weekend. But the rain and thunderstorms did not entirely prevent us from exploring the unique, mesmerizing beauty of this place. It awed me (Stella) to the degree that the area felt religiously sacred to me. The land, once belonging … Continue reading Memorial Day Weekend: Black Hills of South Dakota