Weasel Wonder



Looking back at spatter cones



Back in June on my big 2 week trip, I stayed a night at Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho. An extremely unique geological area that also holds wildlife surprises. After dinner that night I decided to drive the loop and see what this place is all about. I stopped at the overlooks and wandered along the short trails. At the spatter cones walk  I  decide not to grab my 300mm camera lens for such a short walk, leaving me with just a portrait lens on my Canon. Big mistake! First I find myself above a perfectly sunlit perched violet green swallow- too far for the regular lens. I was happy for the view and let the bright green fellow know of my gratitude for the moment.

 

 

Then it was on to the other short walk to the second cone. As I walked on the boardwalk beside the cone I caught movement in my peripheral vision. A young weasel had popped its head out from among the basalt rocks. It was quite a surprise!  I watched it as it ducked flies and checked me out. The youngster was sooo curious. I sat down and talked softly as it edged closer. I decided to take a chance and run back to the truck to get my longer lens. Good call! That little guy was still in the pile of rocks when I returned. Sitting and watching, taking photos, and just being in the moment allowed me to embrace the beauty of this unique animal.

 

 Eventually, he moved on to other piles of volcanic rocks and I followed along, staying on the boardwalk. He cintinued hunting for pikas and other small animals and moved out of sight. In the meantime, I now understand the meaning of pop goes the weasel!

During this adventure, I took quite a few photos, still making sure to stop and enjoy the moment. The gratitude for these magical moments will live on in my soul for a lifetime. May you find the same type of simple adventures in your days.