A Big Horn Ham

You wouldn't think so, but sometimes photographing wildlife from your vehicle can be a great way to catch some incredible shots! Animals tend to be less spooked especially if they are used to seeing cars, but not so used to seeing people wandering around on foot. One of the big reasons many animals shy away from people is because we literally move like predators (which we are) and animals pick up on that and it may or may not send them packing depending on the type of animal...
Big horn sheep tend to be pretty shy depending on where you find them. When we ventured out to Escalante Canyon in Colorado today, I honestly had my doubts that we would find any and if we did, I certainly didn't think they would be anywhere near the road for photo ops. After driving about 20 minutes into the canyon we hadn't seen anything. We slowed down in a place that looked as if it might be good big horn habitat and right away I spotted a big male out in front of us. We crept forward slowly hoping he would allow for some photos but he began to move as if he was going to bolt. We sat for a long time just watching him, inching forward bit by bit until he finally decided that we weren't a threat and continued about his business. As soon as he became comfortable, he became a ham and allowed us to take some fabulous photos:

The last photo is my favorite! This very accommodating fellow turned and looked like he was actually smiling for the camera:

What a ham!