In honor of my birthday, I th0ught it might be fitting to add another chapter in the “Newborn” series. I’ve covered newbies from a number of the animal kingdom over the last two months including Bison (link here), Pronghorn (link here) and even Bear (link here). Today I get to add these..
Isn’t she .. well to be honest, it could be a he but “it” just sounds too cold for such a cutie. This young Wapiti (or Elk depending on your preference) was photographed while on our trip out to Yellowstone National Park back in May 2013. I am not studied up on these creatures beyond what is available in Wikipedia and such, so it is impossible for me to tell you how old she might be for sure. A quick search on the web indicated they give birth in late May and early June.
Our trip out there was the end of May and first few days of June so this one was at most a week and likely less. They will lose their spots at the end of Summer. To be honest, this shoot was at first exhilarating and then gave way to some serious concern. I had climbed up a small hill off the side of the road hoping the higher vantage point might give way to some interesting subjects. After looking around for bit, a rustling sound came from 50 or so yards away. After about 5 or 10 minutes of trying to stand as still as possible, this newborn came walking out from among the brush. That is the part that fits the exhilarating aspect – heart rate goes up, the camera goes up and the finger goes down on the shutter. 5 minutes later my brain kicked in and reminded me this could be a dangerous setting. Heart rate goes up, finger comes off shutter head swivels. Wildlife is no different than us – get too near the babies and the moms get understandably anxious – there are plenty of lessons to be had just checking out the Bear tragedies that occur out there from unexpected encounters with cubs. The fact I was alone only added to the concern. A few parting shots and I got the hell out of there! (never did see the doe, but can’t imagine it was too far away).
Hit the jump to see more pictures of the Elk of Yellowstone – and even shots of a younger calf!
Life Intrigued 