A Hobby That Shapes My Travels

Good morning, folks.

Today I’d like to talk about my hobby — photographing wildlife. Most of my vacations revolve around seeing or experiencing some kind of animal in its natural habitat, from elk in Wyoming to manta rays and whales in Hawaii. I get an incredible thrill from seeing these magnificent creatures (and yes, even the not‑so‑magnificent ones) in the wild instead of behind bars in a zoo.

And of course, once I see them, I try to get a picture. Why? Because without proof, my stories start sounding like fish tales — you know, the one that got away.

The Otters I Never Captured

Let me give you an example. I was walking a trail at Daniel Webster Sanctuary one late afternoon. I didn’t expect to see much until dusk, but I was headed toward a secluded meadow that often had deer in the early morning and late afternoon. The goal was  to be in place when they emerged.

The trail wandered past a pond mostly hidden by tall reeds. Suddenly, there was a commotion ahead and to my left. Three dark-coated animals came sliding down the bank beside the trail and bolted toward the water. I froze. I didn’t even lift the camera hanging around my neck. My brain was stuck on one question: What was that!?

As I came to my senses, I realized I’d missed a rare opportunity — three otters, right there in front of me. I didn’t know otters lived in that pond, and I certainly wasn’t ready for them. I tried to follow them, but the reeds were too thick.

Over the years, I’ve learned that when I tell this story, I’m met with skepticism. Without proof — and pictures are excellent proof — it remains just a tale. A vivid memory for me, but to others, it’s simply the one that got away.

Respecting Wildlife: The Heart of Today’s Post

Which brings me to today’s topic: treating wildlife with respect.

The photographers I admire most, like Thomas D. Mangelsen, carefully stalk their subjects. His breathtaking images come from patience and respect. He never encroaches on the animals he photographs.

Recently, there’s been a spate of reports of bison in Yellowstone attacking or goring tourists. Most of the time, it happens because the tourist didn’t give the animal space or respect. They broke the rules. I’ll admit from my own experience that sometimes things happen unexpectedly, but I’ve also watched tourists walk right up to these animals — camera in hand — trying to get a selfie. Not smart, dude.

When Humans Cross the Line

I once faced down a bear, and I was lucky. It wasn’t hungry that day. But if things had gone badly, it would have been my fault. Unfortunately, nine times out of ten, when a human is injured, the animal is euthanized. We humans sure do love the death penalty.

These animals are only doing what they’ve done for eons — defending their young, their mates, their territory. We’re the ones infringing on them, yet when a human gets hurt, the animal pays the price.

Recently, I saw a video of a safari guide and his group of photographers standing close enough to a puma to reach out and touch her. The park had clear rules: give the animals room — 100 meters minimum. They ignored it. Most of the injured tourists at Yellowstone ignored it too.

A Final Word From the Field

As someone who has wandered fields and forests looking for animals to photograph, I can tell you: encounters happen. Many are fast and unexpected. But plenty of times, the encounter could have been handled better.

Safety first. Respect the animal. And remember — no photo is worth crossing a line that puts you or the wildlife at risk.