When we so closely examine such a thing as a butterfly’s wing, the texture looks so much different. This specimen was a well-preserved monarch butterfly, encountered on a damp, chilly morning hike. Photo taken in Loyalsock State Forest, PA, USA.
These two young bulls were vigorously tussling for quite some time. The late afternoon sunlight and periodic dust clouds made for some spectacular photo-ops! Yellowstone National Park, WY.
Sometimes photo subjects are encountered in the funniest places. While searching for fossils, this little cardinal jumping spider was unearthed from a layer of rock in which she was hiding. Photo taken near Beaver Springs, PA, USA.
Seemingly accustomed to free food, these adorable creatures had no reservations in approaching strangers. Thankfully, they choose such a beautiful vista as their foraging grounds! Zion NP, UT.
Nearing the last 1/3 of a 10 mile hike, I came upon a sign for “Inspiration Rock.” Despite my knee’s excruciating pain and with sunset quickly advancing, I suspected that something named “inspiration” on one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever traversed had to be worth a looksy. This was the best decision I’ve made in ages. Enjoying a nearly 360 degree view littered with hoodoos and other brilliant rock structures, completely alone in the Chiricahua wilderness was worth any bonus knee pain.
Nearing the last 1/3 of a 10 mile hike, I came upon a sign for “Inspiration Rock.” Despite my knee’s excruciating pain and with sunset quickly advancing, I suspected that something named “inspiration” on one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever traversed had to be worth a looksy. This was the best decision I’ve made in ages. Enjoying a nearly 360 degree view littered with hoodoos and other brilliant rock structures, completely alone in the Chiricahua wilderness was worth any bonus knee pain. This little-known national monument is a must-visit, not just for landscape lovers, but also it’s array of unique bird and reptile life.
These beautiful, tiny cacti are considered “hedgehogs.” This species often thrives in steep, rocky habitats. Box Canyon, AZ.
Ironically, coatis are just at home in the trees as on the ground. Their powerful claws as equally effective regardless of terrain!
A very large coatimundi sleeping atop a lopped tree. The forest setting was downright magical! Madera Canyon, AZ.
After a baby coatimundi nipped at my backpack, I politely chastised him/her and the youngster migrated to nearby rock. The baby was soon joined by several family members, nearly too close to pictures!
This is one of my favorite warblers! Meet the common yellowthroat. These tiny songbirds thrive in brushy wetland areas, spending their time hopping around and picking off small insects. It was a delightful surprise to encounter him in the middle of winter. Tucson, AZ.
One of these neotropic cormorants snagged a catfish that was entirely too big to be swallowed in one try. Naturally, this drew the attention of a second cormorant who was able to steal the catch. This, of course, attracted a third and forth cormorant to the scene. By the time one of the birds finally managed to swallow the very dead fish, it had passed between 6 different cormorants over the course of nearly two minutes and amidst much splashing, flailing, and biting. Gilbert, AZ, USA.
Being such intelligent and adaptable creatures, I have an enormous amount of respect for coyotes. They are very quick to adjust their habits based on environmental changes, as well as human development. These canines eat a wide variety of food items, including mammals, reptiles, birds, fruit, and even vegetable matter. Not only are they prevalent throughout the desert, but coyotes thrive in the middle of large cities. Picture Rocks, AZ.
Introducing the winner of Nat Geo Yourshot’s “Photo of the Day.” Silhouetted by the setting sun, a flock of sandhill cranes moves to their roosting spots for the night. Willcox, AZ, USA.
This area hasn’t experienced such rapids for many years and may not again for many to come. Saguaro Nat. Park, AZ.
In addition to “great crested,” this large grasshopper is commonly known as the “dinosaur grasshopper.” I can see the likeness.
SE Arizona.
A single eye peers over his wing as Mr Merganser dramatically flails his wings in the hope of drawing the attention from a hen. Unfortunately, there was not a single hooded merganser lady within sight! Tucson, AZ.
Two young bulls were tussling for a bit before a third decided to join in. At first, two bison were teaming up against the third before they shifted to alternately chasing each-other. Yellowstone Nat Park, WY.
A beautiful baby milksnake coiled in a defensive posture. While on a brief visit to my Pennsylvania hometown, this little gem slithered right by. Winfield, PA.
The perfect camouflage artist, this bobcat seemed to materialize from the brush. Tucson, AZ, USA.
A couple of chanterelle waxy caps. On such a dark, dreary day, the camera flash illuminated them in such a way as to give the impression of tiny little lanterns. Photo taken in Bald Eagle State Forest, PA, USA.
The fawn on the left seemed to be the leader, as it kept a close eye on me for a few seconds, then snorted and took off, closely followed by it’s companion. Photo taken near Northumberland, PA, USA.
The tiny strawberry hedgehog cactus produces a dazzling display of dramatic flowers. Saguaro NP West, AZ.
Following an obscene amount of monsoon rainfall, this normally-dry valley has transformed into a lush jungle. A black-necked garter snake rests along the trail. Catalina Mountains, AZ.