Beautiful Coyote Encounter

One of the best things about cold days at the wetlands is how few humans are around. Fewer humans means I get to see more mammals, and that means coyotes. I love how they watch me from a safe distance. This one was getting ready to turn down the path I was on, saw me, thought better of it, and backed up into some brush. I stopped and waited for her thinking she would come back out and go where she needed to. Sure enough, she came out and ran off in the other direction. It is always a gift to watch them.

Coyote standing in winter grass.
Coyote running.
Coyote running.

Northern Harrier Up Close


It was 16 degrees when I started at the wetlands this morning, so I had it to myself. I got some amazing looks at this norther harrier who landed on the pole right in front of me. It was incredible to see him fly in. He didn’t stay long, but moved to a nearby tree, did a little shrieking, and then was joined by another harrier. They took off together. Wonderful!

Northern harrier with wings outstretched coming in for landing
© Chris Taylor

© Chris Taylor