As I think about the habitat destruction resulting from wildfires, I can't help but wonder whether the animals I've photographed in locations impacted by wildfires have been able to make it through alive. I hope so. I've lately seen many anecdotal reports on social media of people spotting birds and/or animals they don't normally see in their areas, leading people to believe those fauna have fled the fires. These reports give me hope. 

In July, I photographed this young Moose on the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). His/her mother was nearby as they browsed vegetation. They crossed a small road, and even though Mom and kiddo were moving quickly to get out of the open, this little one wasn't able to resist a quick nibble on some tender greenery. 

Although I resist anthropomorphizing my subjects, I couldn't help but imagine a little mischief behind that twinkle in my young friend's eye. I hope to see these two again very soon. 

One way to help the Grand Lake area, which is adjacent to the western entrance of RMNP and whose human population was displaced during evacuation, is to donate to the Grand County Wildfire Emergency Fund.

Photo Recipe:

Canon 5D Mark IV + 100-400 mm lens
Focal length:  400 mm
ISO 1600
F 8
SS: 1/2000