I headed to the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge on New Year's Day to take some wildlife pictures. Unfortunately, the refuge was closed. So after getting over my annoyance at whoever decided to close what is mainly a drive-through area on a holiday, then my annoyance at myself for not checking beforehand, I had to decide my next move. I had about three hours before I was scheduled to meet Zak for dinner in Golden. After briefly considering Denver City Park and Kountze Lake, I realized I'd never shot the American Bison in Genesee Park.
It took me a little driving around to finally find the road that let right up to where the herd was hanging out on the south side of the highway. They were unfortunately not very close to the fence, and the light was pretty bright and harsh.
Two youngsters playing is cool in any light, though.
In a stroke of good fortune, the herd caretaker drove up. He noticed me shooting and asked where I'd like him to feed the bison. I checked the light and made a suggestion, he gave me the thumbs-up, and I thanked him profusely before he unlocked the gates and drove in to pick up some alfalfa. The herd slowly followed him to the barn, clearly knowing what coming. Then they more quickly followed him back down to where he proceeded to onloaded and cut open the bales. Last of all was this big bull, who clearly felt no need to rush since he knew everyone would get out of his way once he arrived.
I got to leisurely take plenty of shots as the gentle giants proceeded to chow down.
The light was now working in my favor, providing nice contrast on their shaggy profiles.
Extreme close-ups are easy when your subject has no interest in moving.
And since I'm still a child, I still like pictures of animals sticking out their tongues. Using that tongue to clean their own nostril is a bonus.
Lemons into lemonade yet again! And I arrived for dinner in plenty of time. :)
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