Friday, June 24, 2011

Cow Moose and New Calves II

Last year at this time, I spent a great deal of time each day photographing three baby Bald Eagles 
from the time they were eggs until they flew the nest.  This year, the assignment is much easier since our resident Cow Moose has decided to use our front yard as a refuge and nursery.  Although, we both know our boundaries, she is quite content in me sitting and photographing her and the youngsters.  Our first greeting, she was breathing heavy but she has become more relaxed and confident that I pose no threat.  She will continue her grazing and let the youngsters run at will.  Like all siblings, tonight they wanted to play and do a little rough housing.  It was so comical to see the antics that they played with one another before they went head to head in a sparring match. 

The Cow steps over the lawn fence, however, the Calves need to take a running start to jump the fence.  The first one over will normally stop and encourage the other to try it!  

 "Opposite Sides Of The Fence"

"Peek A Boo"
 

During the evening, there was numerous sparring matches between the calves, "mom" would stop browsing occasionally to insure things did not get out of control.

"Sparring Match"

"2nd Round"


"3rd Round"

Another Phase Of  "Natural Curosity"

Another Phase Of "Natural Curosity"

"Evening Prayers Prior To Bedding Down"

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Cow Moose and New Born Calves

We have a large meadow on our property that is away from the road system and other houses.  Each spring, several Cow Moose will move into the meadow to raise their young.  On occasion, they will venture out of the meadow and onto our lawn, allowing us the opportunity to see and enjoy the antics of their new "babies".  The family visiting us at present is a Cow and her twin calves.  For the past two evenings, she has moved onto the lawn late in the evening to bed down.  The calves are still nursing, however, they are also now eating their "greens", primarily the leaves of the Alder Bushes.  Photographs were taking under natural light conditions at 11:35 pm on June 20th.

"Sleeping Time"

 "Wake Up Call"

"Midnight Snack"

"Tummy's Full ~ Time To Bed Down"