Stalking Deer

The other night while walking along the east side of the Virgin River here in Zion I startled a deer feeding. It jumped, took a few steps, then continued. I usually speak to them and assure them of my peaceful intentions.



As I meandered along, a gray fox startled a deer, which ran, and so did the fox. I guess it was a mutual startle. The fox began trotting down my path, so I stood perfectly still. I wear a black fleece, and dark pants, so by dusk, there's no telling what I appeared to be to this creature.



It was so cute how he'd walk a ways towards me, raise his head to see better, then continue towards me. I made no sounds, no movement. Perhaps I looked like a tree, maybe an unfamiliar stump.



I've heard the best way to stalk a deer is by only moving when it feeds, when it's head is down. Deer are very cautious, so one would take a step, stop as the deer looked around. Wait til it resumes feeding, take another step. Tom Brown's books, very interesting and well written, talks about this.



Here in Zion deer abound, and they're not skittish. Walking home from work last night around 11:00 p.m I passed through a herd of 4. They were browsing on either side of my only sidewalk passage, making it necessary to pass between them.



This is one of my favorite perks working in a National Park : the ability to interact with semi-wild creatures on a regular basis.

Where the Deer Feed

This morning before work, and before the heat of the day, I went down the Grotto Trail, on the Lodge side of the road. I was looking for deer. They have a couple favorite spots, off the beaten paths, and sure enough, this young doe was browsing on leaves. She didn't seem to mind my photography efforts. I spoke to her, and she didn't run.

Now lizards are a whole 'nother creature. I'd like to get a picture before I leave this fall, but so far none have sat still long enough.

Today was a good day. I enjoyed my co workers, cooked on the Line, trained my replacement, and didn't even feel tired. Now, that's almost like having fun!

I guess its all about knowing where to look, and when. Travel down the right path, at the right time and the trail gods will grant your desire.

Least, that's how I'm chalking up today's goodness.

All Things In Their Season

The desert is in bloom. Fantastic purples, pinks, reds, white amongst the cactus and aloe plants.

Even though I came here to see all this, sometimes I get caught up in working and sleeping. Then on days off, pile on the hiking miles.

I work 1 p.m to 9 ish. So, there's time in the mornings to enjoy the warmth and glow of this canyon. That's what I'm doing now. Sunshine, exercise, a walk before work. Nothing sets the stage for a beautiful day like a commune with nature.

Zion is quiet this morning after Memorial Day weekend has past. Deer roam freely, wild turkeys ramble through the grass. Lizards scurry happily. Least I think they are happy.

All things in their season. One season at a time.