I was running a quick errand into town a few days ago in the afternoon around 3:30 p.m. and decided to put my camera in the car on the seat next to me. When I arrived at the top of the 1/4 mile driveway I noticed a good sized herd of Mountain Sheep moving close to the MT 200 Highway. I rolled down the car window after parking and shutting the engine off. The Mountain Sheep moved closer to where the car was parked on the driveway and were very soon within 30 feet of the vehicle and standing on the other side of the guard rails. I had my camera ready and began rapidly photographing them as the animals continued eating their afternoon snack by the side of the highway.
A herd of Mountain Sheep grazing by the side of MT Highway 200.
I watched the Mountain Sheep for several minutes longer and continued photographing them. I ended up capturing three sheep together in a most unique image that I find to be very revealing of how the ewe sheep stay very close to the rams. I think the following photograph shows some great natural behavior of wild animals who are both curious and cautious.
One Large Mountain Sheep ram is seen here with two ewes.
Are you making sure that you have your camera with you when you make short errands? Is your camera set for the current conditions when you walk out the door? How long are you observing the wild animals before and while you photograph them? Are you ready for any photography situation that could occur at a moments notice?
