2311_0471 Mule Deer
From just over a year ago, a Mule Deer buck watches me from tall grass near the river. I was on foot for this one. It's a little more difficult than shooting from the rolling red Toyota blind, because as soon as they identify me as human, they put distance between us as fast as possible. This buck allowed me one shot, then it was gone.
Occasionally, though, I am able to work for an extended time - on foot - with deer and other local species, and these are by far the most rewarding encounters.
I still can't believe how thick his neck is. This was near the start of the annual rut, and the combination of hormones plus workouts - thrashing bushes, grass, and the ground with his antlers - have enlarged and strengthened his neck.
More Mule Deer to follow over the next few days...
Photographed in the Frenchman River Valley, Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan (Canada). Don't use this image on websites, blogs, or other media without explicit permission ©2023 James R. Page - all rights reserved.
2311_0471 Mule Deer
From just over a year ago, a Mule Deer buck watches me from tall grass near the river. I was on foot for this one. It's a little more difficult than shooting from the rolling red Toyota blind, because as soon as they identify me as human, they put distance between us as fast as possible. This buck allowed me one shot, then it was gone.
Occasionally, though, I am able to work for an extended time - on foot - with deer and other local species, and these are by far the most rewarding encounters.
I still can't believe how thick his neck is. This was near the start of the annual rut, and the combination of hormones plus workouts - thrashing bushes, grass, and the ground with his antlers - have enlarged and strengthened his neck.
More Mule Deer to follow over the next few days...
Photographed in the Frenchman River Valley, Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan (Canada). Don't use this image on websites, blogs, or other media without explicit permission ©2023 James R. Page - all rights reserved.