As you can see, the “blizzard” has blown through and while the roads are a mess, the light was out and so were we. With the end of bad weather typically comes a feeding frenzy by critters so we headed out where I thought the wind would have blown off the new snow. We saw lots of Mule Deer but we were hoping for better (yeah, I love Bambie).
A herd of Mtn Goats were introduced to the Mt Rushmore area early last century. Sometimes you can find them and sometimes you can’t. We lucked into this nanny who was taking advantage of the wind blown area to eat in the last rays of sunshine.
You’ll probably notice the ear tag and telemetry collar on the goat. Many would either not photograph them or if they do, remove them in post. Did I ever tell you about my first Audubon cover (their last wrap around), they specifically wanted a photograph of a California Gnatcatcher with bands on its leg. In reality, finding Mtn Goats with a collar is a whole lot more difficult than finding ones without. So strictly from a business point of view, I don’t mind the jewelry. Since I’m often involved in projects where that jewelry is being put on, I understand its purpose and need so often make a point of photographing it when I can.
How do I know it’s a nanny? The horns.
Photo captured by D3, 70-300VR on Lexar UDMA digital film