The Bear That Tipped the Camera
The camera had been left in a place I thought was well chosen. When I returned, it was still there, but something about its position immediately told me that the story had taken an unexpected turn.
I spent the past two spring seasons targeting bears with my DSLR camera traps. My goal was to find locations that were not only productive, but also inspiring. When I came across this gem of a spot, I knew I had found something special. With a “bear tree” nearby, along with a well-used game trail, I figured it wouldn’t be long before I captured my first bear here.
A week later, this large bruin came wandering through. That is, until my camera went off.
The curious bear approached the camera and gave it a good sniff, eventually ripping off my camouflage netting and tipping it over before continuing on its way. Since then, at least six different bears have passed through this same spot.
Being a good naturalist is key to capturing images like this. My background as an animal tracker gives me an advantage, especially when I’m out scouting for new camera-trap locations. Reading the landscape, recognizing animal sign, and understanding how wildlife moves through an area can make all the difference.
For me, this image transports me right back to that grassy ridgeline, standing there with the mountains stretching out behind the bear. How about you?
Below are two more photographs I captured from the same general area.
