You never have a camera when you need one . . .
You never have a camera when you need one . . . belongs to the following groups:
Nature's Wonders and Wolves & Wild KinAnd if you were thinking this involves the coyote, you’d be correct.
I always enjoy going out in bad weather, because it increases my chance of seeing wildlife and keeps the crowds down at the same time. Unfortunately, no one was able to go with me other than the dog. And through hard experience, I’ve learned that Akitas and cameras do not mix.
Anyway, the park was almost deserted. Well, deserted of people, but not geese. There was a HUGE flock right next to the parking lot. They quickly noticed my dog while he was still in the car, and were visibly concerned. I tried to get him out as slowly as possible to keep from spooking them, but as soon as he rounded the car, the entire flock exploded into flight. It was an impressive sight.
We proceeded on our walk, but not more than a few steps on the trail we both noticed something – there was a coyote in the grass not more than 10 meters away. he was crouched down in the grass, apparently sneaking up on the geese – but that plan was spoiled when we spooked the flock. He casually sat upright, initially unaware of us, watching the geese fly away. He quickly became aware of us and just sat there watching us for the longest time.
After a few moments he casually stood up and started slowly walking parallel to the same trail we were on. After only a few feet he stopped, crouched down, and executed a perfect jump in the air, pouncing on something, and wound up with a fat vole in his mouth, which he quickly ate. All at only 10 meters away.
To make a long story short, we ran into the coyote several more times, usually less than 15 meters away each time. He never displayed any sign of aggression, just curiosity. We just happened to be sharing the same trail while he was going about his business.
It was frustrating to not have my camera to have recorded all this, particularly after spending to much time and energy get some decent shots of these wonderful animals. Despite the frustration of getting no shots with such a wonderful opportunity, it was a privilege to spend so much time with such a magnificent creature.
Charlie08
Note to self: “Have camera surgically attached to hand” LOL
Sorry to hear of your misfortune but glad you had a great time watching this little guy!
Sandy Stewart
Thank you for sharing your interesting walk with us! It is too bad you didn’t have your camera with you for sure, but like you mentioned, it was a privilege to spend the time watching the Coyote. To experience something like this in real life is special in itself! :)
Lori Peters
I have a DSLR for wildlife but I got a small 10MP with a 10x zoom for Christmas. I take it with me everywhere. It takes great pictures and it uses battereies. Now, i always have a camera with me. I missed a beautiful coyote shot last year because the snow was up to my knees. i was so mad. xo
Marvin Collins
Great story Jay, and that’s the way it always goes, if I could just capture some of the things I’ve seen when I didn’t have a camera. Maybe next time.
C J Hummel - ...
Shame your dog spoilt the coyotes meal. Every naturalist motto is
Take nothing but photos,
Leave nothing but footprints and
Kill nothing but time
This also means, leaving your dog at home when you are out to see wildlife.
Jay Ryser replied
But keep in mind, this is a public park – people, dogs, horses. It’s the usual place we go to walk the dog – as do hundreds if not thousands of others. The coyotes just happen to live there too.
Gary Lengyel
Isn’t that the case? I see hawks and falcon right next to the road often, and yes, no camera. Bummer dude. Hey, if you want to shoot tomorrow (Sunday), let me know. I’m game.
Jay Ryser replied
Sure, I’m game. i almost got skunked today by the coyotes, so I’m in the mood for something different.
C J Hummel - ...
Oh now I understand!
Chris Snyder
Just have to chalk that one to the memory disc. Amazing encounter and thanks for sharing.