Yesterday I spent some time up in the Wasatch Mountains where I found and photographed my first of year Uinta Ground Squirrels with frost on the ground.
Standing Uinta Ground Squirrel and frost – Nikon D500, f9, 1/640, ISO 500, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
When I was in the mountains in March it was still too early to see these ground squirrels but they are out and about now and it was wonderful to hear their calls and see them above ground.
I know that some people think these squirrels are pests. I don’t and they are fun to photograph too, especially the babies who should be making their appearance before too long.
Two Uinta Ground Squirrels on a frosty April morning – Nikon D500, f13, 1/320, ISO 500, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
These two adult Uinta Ground Squirrels stood side by side for the longest time above their burrow in the frosty grasses. When I left the squirrels they were still standing next to each other.
Uinta Ground Squirrel standing in frosted grasses – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 500, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Uinta Ground Squirrels spend only a few months above ground so I try to photograph them as often as I can where ever I can. I photographed a few more ground squirrels yesterday morning but I liked these images that included the frosted grasses the most. The frost on the grasses sparkled like tiny diamonds in the bright morning light.
It won’t be long before it is too warm even in the high Wasatch Mountains for frost to form. It is supposed to be 83°F down here in the valley today!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Uinta Ground Squirrel photos plus facts and information about this species.
Yet another thing we do not have, and that I am unlikely to see for myself. Many, many thanks.
pot guts!
Cute!