July 31st, 2020 – Friday

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Jackson Hole COVID-19 News Story in National Geographic

“Surging tourism is straining this Yellowstone gateway town Amid rising COVID-19 cases and unconcerned tourists, the people of Jackson, Wyoming, are struggling to keep their town solvent—and safe….”

WOW! July has been a great month!

Slowly scroll all the way to the bottom of the page.  You should notice a huge variety of photos again this month! You should also enjoy the bright colors of summer. as the article above indicates, Jackson Hole has been very busy in July.  I’ve been consciously staying away from the crowds and it has definitely paid off. Get out early or stay out late and you can miss the bulk of the crowds. Remember, masks are required in the Town of Jackson and also throughout the entire county.

Photos from this morning:

Pronghorns: The buck on the far left has been very busy gathering up around 40 does. The Pronghorn rut will begin sometime in August. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Lip Curl: Speaking of the rut…a herd of around 60-70 Bison moved south overnight. Several of the larger bulls were definitely displaying rut behavior.Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Purple Lupines: Balsom Root flowers are long gone. Their arrowhead shaped leaves are crunchy if you hike around in the sage flats. Other wildflowers like the Purple Lupines above are still looking good in many areas. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Cow: Among the Lupines. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Bull: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Cow: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Afternoon Photos

Short-tailed Weasel: Seen along the road to Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Long-billed Curlew: I found this bird along Mormon Row Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Long-billed Curlew: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Young Bull Moose: Feeding along the Gros Ventre late in the day. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

I am accepting photo tours for the summer and fall…with modifications!

Normally, I drive my tour clients around in my vehicle. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve opted to offer tours by letting clients follow me in their vehicles. This allows for ample social distancing. I purchased several pairs of walkie-talkies to allow me to communicate while driving. Instead of eating inside one of the restaurants, I Creekside Market will make sandwiches to order for the day’s trip. Masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes will be provided. If you have questions, please ask!

The goal is to keep both of us safe, yet cover most of the same areas of the park.

Photo tours help me pay bills and continue to add content to this site. Keep me in mind if you are going to be in the valley! My tours are licensed by the National Park Service and National Elk Refuge.

I offer year round photo tours in Grand Teton National Park. Seasons are changing! Book now! Click the image for additional information.

Client Comments: “As a published and passionate photographer, I recognized Michael Jackson’s extraordinary skills as a photographer. Today I learned more about composition and creative technical ideas than I ever could have imagined.” G.S., Jackson Hole.

July 30th, 2020 – Thursday

Soggy Hawk: Fog lingered in the lower areas of town this morning, especially south of town. The fog soaked everything, including this Red-tailed Hawk. It was shot backlit with a lifting layer of fog.  Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Foggy Barn: I shot a few photos over this fence, then a few with it at the bottom of the scene. I chose the one with the close elements. The horse was an unexpected bonus! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Foggy Horse: I wouldn’t have seen the wire mesh behind the horse. It’s “different”…but I am not sure I like it! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Great Horned Owl: By the time I found this owl, the fog had lifted, but she was still wet. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Broad-tailed Hummingbird: Hummingbirds seemed to disappear for a month or so, but I am hearing and seeing more of them in my back yard lately. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Red Squirrel: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Mountain Chickadee: This is a shot taken late in the evening. Chickadees move fast, so you have to catch them in a split second when they hesitate or look at something. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Red Squirrel: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

July 29th, 2020 – Wednesday

Early Morning Skies: I left home at 4:00 am to see if I could get some stars and clouds over the Tetons during the “blue light” period. At 4:00 am, there is no way of knowing if the mountain range would be covered with clouds. After my first photo, I could see the tip of the Grand still covered. In this photo, a passing vehicle “light painted” the row of trees. Nikon D6 and Sigma 24mm F/1.4 Art Lens, Tripod.

Morning Stars: I turned my camera to the south for this photo. The clouds were being lit by lights from the Town of Jackson and the JH Airport. Nikon D6 and Sigma 24mm F/1.4 Art Lens, Tripod.

Bull Elk: For the past week or two, I have been concentrating on Moose. They are much closer to home, letting me save a little gas and wear on the truck. Besides the star shots, I planned on looking for Elk in the NW portion of the Park. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Elk Trio: I found a group of around eight bulls near Signal Mountain, making the trip worth the effort. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Elk: As soon as sunlight hits the valley floor, the bulls start moving back to the cover of the dense forests. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Elk on the Move: I believe the Elk will be stripping their velvet soon. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Morning Clouds: Even though there was a cloud at the top of the Grand when I was set up for stars, it cleared several times while I was out. It was a beautiful morning! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Retreating Elk: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Baby Raven: I found this group near the Jackson Lake Dam. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Baby Ravens: Breakfast for the babies…probably a slab of fish. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Oxbow Eend Pano: Some of the vents have been closed at the dam, letting the water level drop a little. There is now a strip of dry land along the edge of the “bend”. Nikon D850 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

July 28th, 2020 – Tuesday

Mule Deer Fawn: Seen bounding around along Spring Gulch Road. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Cascades: It was a good “bad” day! After quite a few bright, sunny days, we had overcast skies and light rain. I took the opportunity to do some long exposures of this little cascades on Teton Pass. Nikon D850 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

Cascades: Nikon D5 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Cascades: Nikon D5 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Soggy Flower: John Canetta identified this wildflower as an Indian Blanketflower. Thanks John!  I found a patch of them on the “Old Pass Road”. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.

Streamside Bull: Taken along a small channel of the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Streamside Bull: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Young Bull: This youngster is still hanging close to his mother, but will probably get run off when the large bulls take interest in her during the rut. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Young Bull: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Youngster and Cow: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 27th, 2020 – Monday

Moose-Wilson Road: These signs just appeared on the Moose-Wilson Road, effectively closing 1.4 miles to human foot traffic. A few of the pullout cones have been removed, but if I read this correctly, we can’t walk down the road to get to any of the rest of it. The closure begins at the Sawmill Ponds Overlook at the North end and extends almost a mile and a half south.

Beaver Pond: I took this out my window while driving along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Cow and Calf: Seen along the Moose-Wilson Road at the south end of Sawmill Pond. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Calf & Mallards: Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Calf: Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Mule Deer: I caught this doe feeding on purple wildflowers this afternoon. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Agriculture and Sleeping Indian: Taken along Spring Gulch Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Elk: Also taken along Spring Gulch Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 26th, 2020 – Sunday

Bull Elk: Seen near Signal Mountain this morning. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pelicans: These two were seen near the JacksonLake Dam. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Gros Ventre Moose: I heard there were four bulls along the Gros Ventre River two nights ago. This evening, I went there and saw two. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Bull Moose: This seemed like a good time to switch from the Nikon D6 to my Nikon D850. The animals were not moving fast and there was plenty of light. The other bull I saw was larger, but was too far back in the willows.  Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

July 25th, 2020 – Saturday

NEWS STORIES of interest

Grand Teton euthanizes food-conditioned black bear: JH News & Guide

“If Teton County were a state, it would have the fourth-highest rate of new daily coronavirus infections per 100,000 people.”…Read More

Pond: Growth in cases “gives me the chills” (JH News & Guide)

Ridgeline Bison: Seen along the Gros Ventre Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Little Barn: Taken south of town. Summer hay is being baled and rolled for feeding winter cattle. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Great Horned Owl: Normally, I don’t see Great Horned Owls in the bright part of the day. This one was sleeping the day away in an aspen south of town. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Osprey: Just about every nest has one to three chicks in them. There are numerous nesting platforms along the Moose-Wilson Road, around Wilson, and along the Snake River. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Osprey: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Osprey: This nest has at least two babies. I thought I saw the head of one more. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Afternoon in the Spring Creek: Nice to see a bull again! He was feeding near the Gros Ventre. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

The Collar: Unfortunately, some agency recently put a large collar and a couple of ear tags on this one. I am hoping this will be the only bull showing up with a collar, and especially hope they do not collar Shoshone and some of the other large bulls. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Moose: It’s possible to remove collars and tags in Photoshop, but it takes extra effort. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Moose: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Moose: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

John Moulton Barn: Storm clouds rolled through this afternoon. I had hoped to get a few photos with lightning bolts, or possibly a rainbow. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Hay Time: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 24th, 2020 – Friday

Great Horned Owl: Before driving to the Park, I went south to look for a Great Horned Owl. I found the male resting in a large willow tree. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Great Horned Owl: I shot through a small “window” on this one to give it soft edges. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Great Horned Owl: Eventually, the sun came up enough to rim light the owl. He flew quickly after the sun hit him. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

The State of Things! As the newspaper documented yesterday, the area is currently busier this year than last year. Apparently more people are driving here instead of flying to the region. All campgrounds have been full for as long as I can remember. There is a line of campers waiting at the Gros Ventre Campground at 6:30 am even though the office doesn’t open until 8:00 am. By 9:00am, the line backs up to the Gros Ventre Road and by 9:30 am, the line spilled in both directions on the GV Road. As I was driving towards town, I passed dozens more campers heading towards the campground. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Musk Thistle: Upon first glance, you might think this is another example of a Coronavirus model. Instead it is a detail of a Musk Thistle. The Park Service labels it as a weed or invasive species of plants. There is a fair amount of beauty in the plant, even if it is having a negative impact on the Park. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Tripod.

July 23rd, 2020 – Thursday

Great Horned Owl: This is a photo I would never have even tried to capture only a few years ago. Why? It was LATE in the evening, taken hand held at 1/160th second at 420 mm. ISO ended up at 20,000! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose-Wilson Road: As berries begin to ripen along the Moose-Wilson Road, the Park Service is putting up the brown stakes and orange cones EVERYWHERE so you can park ANYWHERE! A .8 section of the road going south from the Sawmill Pond overlook is fully closed to legal parking. As I drove back through, a couple of Moose were in Moose Pond and dozens of people were parked illegally ON the road instead of in the existing legal pullouts. Unless they get a lot of complaints, I doubt it will change all year. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Calf: I saw this single calf near an un-collared cow at the south end of Sawmill Pond along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Butter and Eggs: These colorful wildflowers are classified as an “invasive species”. I saw several groves of them in the Moose-Wilson Road zone. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Butterfly, Butter & Eggs: I was at minimum focus distance when I took this shot. I probably should have backed up a couple of feet, but I liked the idea of adding an insect to the flowers. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

I’ve mentioned several times that traffic and tourism appears at least as busy this year during the COVID-19 pandemic than in any of the previous years. Looks like my observations were accurate: 

July 22nd, 2020 – Wednesday

Please take a minute and register to follow this site. I’d love to have another couple hundred new subscribers from the group visiting the site this Summer! MJ

Countywide Mask Ordinance in Effect

Wyoming approves mask order for Teton County (JH News & Guide) This new ordinance takes the place of the Town of Jackson Mask ordinance.

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Great Horned Owl : Variety of Shoots

Late in the day yesterday, I found a Great Horned Owl sitting on the top of a roof south of town. I went back this morning and found her sitting in an aspen. I got a few shots with my “go to” body and lens combination, then did some switching and tried different combinations.

Nikon D6 & Sigma Sport 60-600mm: The D6 does a great job with high ISO, plus it has a large buffer, fast focusing, and the photos always seem very sharp.

Nikon D850 & Sigma Sport 60-600mm: With plenty of light, and with an animal that isn’t moving too much, this combination works well. It gives me more pixels if I need to crop. The high ISO is not as good as the D5 and D6. It has a much smaller buffer, and slower frame rate.

Nikon D500& Nikon 200-500mm: The D500 has a 1.5 DX crop sensor. At 500mm I get an effective reach 750mm when zoomed to 500mm. I’ve always thought this is a good combination when I need a little extra reach. The D500 has a reasonably good buffer and has a plenty useable frame rate, but the hight ISO is not as good as the D5 or D6.

July 21st, 2020 – Tuesday

One Flowers: If you want to photograph the One Flowers, you’d better hurry! They are currently common along Antelope Flats Road. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.

One Flowers: I could “stack” a couple of images to get both the flowers and the Grand in focus, but I liked the softened look of the readily identifiable Grand. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.

One Flowers: Clouds are back in the forecast for tomorrow. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.

Red-tailed Hawk: Seen on the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose in Sawmill Pond: This young Moose was grazing on aquatic vegetation in Sawmill Pond on the Moose-Wilson Road as I walked up. It then moved across the pond and into the dense forest. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Detail: Seems there’s always something interesting to photograph. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.

Wilson Barn: I know of four of this style barn remaining in the JH Valley. This one is just outside Wilson. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Wrangler: Seen driving horses to pasture along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Great Horned Owl: Looks promising for fall and winter. The pair of Owls appear to be back in their normal hunting areas south of town. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

 

July 20th, 2020 – Monday

Morning: No drama in this photo, but I took it to show the snowpack on the mountains. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pronghorn Doe: This doe was fairly far in the deep green grass, but seemingly on the move to the north. I parked and let her continue on her way. Interestingly, she walked directly towards my truck, then veered off at the last minute. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Mother Moose: I’m bummed! I recently heard a report of one of the nice bulls along the the Gros Ventre had a big collar. This morning, I saw this cow feeding in Sawmill Pond on the Moose-Wilson Road, wearing a collar and sporting two large ear tags. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Baby Moose: The cow in the previous photo has two calves. You can see how their rusty red baby fur is being replaced with darker fur. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Plop! The youngster found its sibling and then plopped down next to it. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Black bear killed in Grand Teton National Park | News …

July 19th, 2020 – Sunday

Lockhart Ranch: I figured the Park would be very busy today, so I decided to head south to update some of the photos I took a couple of weeks ago. This shot was taken along the highway as I was heading south out of Jackson. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Afton Arch: The Town of Jackson has four antler arches on the corners of the Town Square. Afton has “The World’s Largest Elkhorn Arch”…a piece of Americana in keeping with the roadside attractions sprinkled along the roadways in the US. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Americana: Find it in Star Valley

Morning Power Lines: I liked the rolling hills and disappearing roads to go with the power lines running alongside it. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Star Valley Barns: I pulled over along the highway for this shot. I liked all of the layering. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Barn Details: I didn’t see this nice set of details when I took the previous shot. While processing it in Lightroom, I saw a “photo in a photo”. I like the long shadows cast across the gable of the barn. The next time I am down there, I’ll shoot the detail again taking advantage of my lens’ zoom and not the crop. There are lots of barns in Star Valley. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Swainson’s Hawk: The last time I was there, this nest had two small chicks. This time, I saw only one. Possibly the other one has already fledged? Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Yellow-bellied Marmot: The last time I was along Swift Creek, I saw numerous baby Marmots. They are now much larger and appear to be on their own. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pica: To be honest, these tiny creatures were the main reason I went south. Kerry Singleton let me know they are beginning to gather leaves and stacking them to dry in their “haystacks”. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pica: Dining on some of its leaves. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pica: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pica: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Golden Mantle Ground Squirrel: This is probably one of the youngsters I photographed a couple of weeks ago. They are looking more mature. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Aphrodite Fritillary Butterflies: I found an area that was attracting several species of Butterflies and spent a little time trying to photograph them. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

White Admiral Butterfly: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 18th, 2020 – Saturday

NEOWISE Comet With Remnant Clouds: By late in the afternoon yesterday, clouds were relatively thick over the Tetons, so I didn’t plan on going out again. By about 9:30, they had effectively cleared, so I grabbed the gear and some insect repellent and headed out. You can see a few clouds hanging around in last night’s photos. I took this one at Taggart Lake Trailhead parking area. 10:18 PM , 82mm, 4 seconds, F/2.8, ISO 4000 Manual Mode.  Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

NEOWISE Comet With Clouds: I took this one at Windy Point. 10:50 PM , 102mm, 6 seconds, F/2.8, ISO 10,000 Manual Mode.  Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

Milky Way: I saw this composition while photographing the comet and went back to it once the comet dropped behind the Tetons. The glow in the lower right is the light pollution from the Town of Jackson. I took this one along the road at the Taggart Lake Trailhead parking area. 11:15PM , 82mm, 15 seconds, F/1.4, ISO 5000 Manual Mode.  Nikon D6 and Sigma 24mm Art Lens, Tripod.

Horse Drive: These photos look fine in color, but I like the sepia toning on many of the western flavored images. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Horse Drive: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Trail Horses: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Bison Bull: I watched a couple of big bulls break away from the main herd and head towards a water hole on Elk Ranch Flats. You can see the water dripping from his mouth. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Bull: In the next week or so, the big bulls will start courting some of the cows. August is the prime month for the Bison rut. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Bull: Some of the prairie grasses are still green, but there is noticeable shift towards golden colored late summer grass.  Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 17th, 2020 – Friday

NEOWISE Comet: Nestled between the Grand and Teewinot last night. I took this one at Windy Point. 10:28 PM , 100mm, 6 seconds, F/2.8, ISO 4000 Manual Mode.  Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

NEOWISE Comet: After a few shots at Windy Point, I went south to a spot along the Moose-Wilson Road. One site I read said the Comet is three miles across and that if you miss it in July and August of 2020, it won’t be visible again for around 6,000 years. 10:50 PM , 130mm, 6 seconds, F/2.8, ISO 10,000 Manual Mode.  Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

Bison Bull: Normally, I go out early or late. Today, I drove into the park at lunch time. This nice bull Bison was close to the road at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Bull: Same bull at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pronghorn Bucks: Lookin’ good at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Mountain Hollyhock: Captured at Snake River Overlook. Nikon D850 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Snake River Overlook: Clouds rolled in as the afternoon rolled by. Nikon D850 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Horse Drive: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Horse Drive: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Horse Drive: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 16th, 2020 – Thursday

NEOWise Comet: I went back out last night to photograph the comet. This stitched pano was taken just after I could start seeing the comet. 10:20 PM , 70mm, 2.5 seconds, F/4, ISO 2500 Manual Mode. Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

John Moulton Barn: 10:37 PM , 135mm, 3 seconds, F/2.8, ISO 2500 Manual Mode. Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

NEOWise Comet: I took this photo at Blacktail Ponds Overlook. 10:53 PM , 70mm, 5 seconds, F/2.8, ISO 5000 Manual Mode. Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

Wrangler and Horses: How about some mid-summer variety! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Wrangler: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Dusty Horses: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 15th, 2020 – Wednesday

NEOWISE Comet: I took these two photos last night. This one was taken from Teton Point Overlook, shooting towards Mt. Moran. You can see the comet with the naked eye, but the sensor picks it up even more. 10:40 PM , 98mm, 5 seconds, F/5.6, ISO 4000 Manual Mode. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

NEOWISE Comet: I took this one along Mormon Row. 11:23 PM, 98mm, 6 seconds, F/2.8, ISO 6400 Manual Mode.  Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.

Milky Way Notes: Last night, when I was there between 11:15 to 11:30 or so, the Milky Way was more or less straight overhead and running parallel with Mormon Row.

Pronghorn Doe: I looked for Moose originally, then switched to cruising around looking for Pronghorns along Mormon Row. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Wet Wildflower: Morning dew adds some additional texture and interest to a common subject like this wildflower. It took the photo near the Rendezvous Park along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D500 and Tamron 16-400mm Lens, Handheld.

Wet Wildflower: I made two exposures for this one, focusing initially on the front half of the flower and another one focused on the back petals. Back at home, I stacked the two photos in Photoshop and Lightroom. If I had taken the time to set up a tripod, I could have done five or six images, focusing a bit deeper into the scene each time.  Nikon D500 and Tamron 16-400mm Lens, Handheld.

July 14th, 2020 – Tuesday

Robin and Berries: Berry bushes are attracting Robins and Cedar Waxwings at Schwabacher Landing. This Robin was gathering berries for her hungry baby. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Chipping Sparrow: Seen at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Baby Ducks: A set of late season babies…probably Barrow’s Golden Eyes. I didn’t see the mother, which would have helped identify them. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Schwabacher Landing: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moron Row: The TA Moulton Barn with streaking morning clouds. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handhel.

July 13th, 2020 – Monday

Schwabacher Landing: You never know when Mother Nature will pay off with a nice sunset. Sometimes, you can wait and wait, only to have a muted gray sky and no color. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Tripod.

Pronghorns: Early morning along Mormon Row. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pronghorns: I liked the layers in these photos. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

COVID-19 Updates: The Wilson Chicken Fry is cancelled this year.

Road Updates: Road crews completed work on the south half of the road over Flat Creek. They will resume work on the north side in the Fall. Road work south of town is mostly completed, lacking only the striping. Construction is still underway south of the new School and to the Snake River Bridge near Hoback Junction.

I added this short video clip on Instagram this afternoon. Click the image to view it there. MJ

July 12th, 2020 – Sunday

Barn Swallow: Nice to see one resting on a tree branch. Most of the time they are erratically flying just above the water. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Hot Air Balloons: I am not sure how easy it is to “social distance” with several people and a pilot in a small basket, but the balloons are back in business. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

One Flowers: One stalk, one flower! Taken along Antelope Flats Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

One Flowers: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 11th, 2020 – Saturday

Comet NEOWISE: My wife heard the front door shut this morning at 3:45 am as I was heading out to see if I could see the comet in the early morning NW sky. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Comet NEOWISE: I took this group of shots from the bridge over the Snake River near Wilson. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Comet NEOWISE: I took these photos with my Nikon D6 for 15 seconds at F/7.1 using the Sigma Sport 60-600mm. If I do it again, I’ll drop the shutter speed considerably and bump up the ISO. The comet is closer and moving through the scene faster than the stars. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Mother Moose and Twins: I saw this group in the shadows as I was going to a few Saturday morning garage sales. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Mother Moose and Calf: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 10th, 2020 – Friday

Schwabacher Landing: As I drove to Schwabacher Landing this morning, I was hoping to find the mother Moose and calf. I carried my Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm lens, but left my tripod in the truck. Even though I had “too much lens” for the traditional landscapes, I was able to rotate the it to vertical orientation and capture the scene as a five or six shot pano. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Schwabacher Landing: Another stitched pano using the telephoto lens. This is the same place the cow and calf were feeding a few days ago. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Schwabacher Landing: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

White Pelicans: Seen at Two Ocean Lake. If you go there, make sure you have some mosquito repellent! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

White Pelican: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Wildflowers: There are quite a few colorful wildflowers along the Two Ocean Lake road right now. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Wildflowers: Also seen on the road to Two Ocean Lake. I heard a report that 610 and her two cubs had just crossed the area. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Uinta Ground Squirrel: The little critters are food sources for numerous hawks and hunters like foxes, coyotes, and bears. They are plentiful during the summer months, but then go underground for seven months of the year.

399 and her four cubs were being seen in the area near the Jackson Lake Dam. She was too far away and the roadway was too crowded for me! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 9th, 2020 – Thursday

Road Report: The Moose-Wilson Road is open again after grading and maintenance.

White-tailed Deer: Yesterday, I found several nice Moose. I went back today, but got skunked while on the Gros Ventre. I found a curious White-tailed Deer as I hiked around. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Mountain Bluebird: Another subject found while looking for Moose. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Spotted Sandpiper: I’ve photographed a couple of these birds before, but I don’t think they are that common around here. This one was working the edges of the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Spotted Sandpiper: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose in Moose Pond: The light wasn’t great at the time I took this photo along the Moose-Wilson Road. I often see this size young cow still hanging with its mother, but it appeared this youngster was on her own. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 8th, 2020 – Wednesday

Moose (Hoback): The bull I saw yesterday was out in the open before heading back to the darker forest this morning. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose (Hoback): These photos were taken along the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose & Sidekick: A smaller and feisty bull shadowed the larger bull and wanted to faux spar with him. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Moose: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Hoback: Stopping for a quick drink. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Hoback: Standing at the forest’s edge with a patch of Indian paintbrush at his feet. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Hoback along the  Gros Ventre River: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pronghorns: There were no clouds over the Tetons this morning, so it made sense to look for wildlife. These Pronghorns were roaming around in the fields north of Kelly. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Bull: Taken at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Badger: Also taken at Elk Ranch Flats. I would have liked to be a lot closer but cropped the capture to include in today’s post. Badgers feed on the abundant supply of Chislers in the area. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pronghorn with Twins: This doe had a couple of cute little fawns with her at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Youngster: Seen at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Cascades: Taken at Lupine Meadows. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Great Blue Heron: Seen among the wildflowers along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 7th, 2020 – Tuesday

Bull Moose with Drop Tine: I saw this nice looking bull Moose along the Gros Ventre River this morning. I am going to have to study his antler patterns to see if I can identify him (unless he is a newcomer). A few years ago a bull I called Custer was seen commonly in the area. He had a drop tine similar to this one, and in the latter years, he had a drop tine on both antlers. This bull has a small dewlap, so I know it is not Custer. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bull Moose with Drop Tine: If this bull hangs around for the fall rut, he will be easy to identify. For now, I am going to identify him as “Hoback”. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Cow Getting a Drink: This cow and her calf were at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Cow and Mt. Moran: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Youngster: Fawns and Calves are growing fast! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Mossy Calf: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Cow and Calf: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Cow and Calf: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 6th, 2020 – Monday

One Flowers: I stopped along Spring Gulch Road late this afternoon for a grove of One Flowers…each stalk has only one flower at the top. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

One Flowers: In many cases, there will be a LOT of One Flowers in one meadow. Now I just need to find subjects to go with them! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Evening Barns: I worked around the house all day, then went out late for the long shadows of evening. This barn is located along Spring Gulch Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Shane Cabin / Luther Taylor Cabin / Ernie Wright Cabin: Locally, most people call this the Shane Cabin, but it was actually built by Luther Taylor. In the movie, the site was the home of Ernie Wright. I took this photo Sunday but just got around to processing it for the site. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Frank Edmondson Homestead: Yesterday, I finally got around to hiking out to this location. It is located about .75 miles north of Warm Springs Road and not too far from the   house seen in the Shane movie. This line from Walter Farmer’s CD about the movie supplies some information: “There was and still is, a clump of trees seen in the movie, between the Starrett’s homestead and Blacktail Butte. This clump of trees encompassed the actual home of the Frank Edmondson family although the site has been razed since the time of the film and only the foundation remains.” This image above is the floor of some sort of shed I found at the site. There are a few remnant concrete foundations and evidence of the homestead. The area is littered with fallen cottonwoods. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Other Shane Movie Links and Resources:

• “SHANE” — The Epic Western Movie Filmed in Jackson Hole.   The sister Feature Post with more story line and info.
• Shane Movie Locations:
• The Shane Cabins: Authentic Homestead in Grand Teton National Park: a previous Feature Post with lots of photos and maps.
• “Wyoming – A History of Film and Video in the 20th Century” CD by Walt Farmer.
• Entering Wyoming: A Page about Shane
• Shane (film) – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
• Shane movie trailer on YouTube
• Movie Clips

Frank Edmondson Cottonwoods: I did a web search for “Frank Edmondson Teton” but it didn’t turn up any information about the site. The foundations were on the of the smaller tree and the wood floor is on the right of the larger cottonwood. It has been 69 years since the movie was filmed, so many of the old cottonwoods matured and have since fallen to the ground. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Frank Edmondson Foundations: There were hundreds of old ranches and homesteads sprinkled across Jackson Hole, only a few of which remain. Other than knowing some of the trees that can be seen in a few scenes of the Shane movie, the site doesn’t have much historical significance. I found it to be a worthwhile way of spending an hour hiking out and back and taking a few photos on a beautiful summer morning. If you want to go there, drive out the two track road heading west from the Kelly Warm Springs. About a mile in, you’ll see two several posts and a wire “gate” that is left open all summer. Park at the gate and follow the old irrigation ditch due north about 3/4 mile. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Shoshone in Velvet: This is another photo I took of Shoshone (and parts of another bull) along the Gros Ventre River yesterday. It looks like he will have five beautiful brow tines on each side again this year. His main paddles were still growing. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Shoshone: The second bull “might be” the bull I call Laramie. As I mentioned in yesterday’s post, I saw five bulls feeding on willows along the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Mother Moose and Running Calf: I took quite a few photos yesterday, but didn’t have time to cull through all of them. I had some “Monday business” to take care of today, so I didn’t go out early. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bear Updates: 601 and her two older cubs have been on the move and seen fairly often lately. Blondie and her cub hasn’t been seen in a long time. She seldom spends much of the summer visible to tourists. 399 and her four cubs haven’t been seen in the open lately. Blondie’s sub-adults are seen off and on. Felicia sightings has been reported on Togwottee Pass. Black Bears are seen randomly in quite a few areas. As days warm up, bears move into the shade during the hottest part of the day. Watch for them early and late in the day.

July 5th, 2020 – Sunday – 4th of July Weekend

Wedding Trees: It seems that the Park Service and Forest Service is constantly taking away places and features we had available in prior years. The Wedding Trees are the opposite! I’ve woken up early numerous times to get to the Wedding Trees only to find a camper had set up a tent right under the tree opening. Recently, the Forest Service designated the area as a “day use only” zone, cleaning it up and removing fire rings and camping spots. Much better! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Shane Cabin Window: Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Pronghorn Doe and Fawn: Seen crossing the fields north of Kelly. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Northern Harrier: Also seen in the fields north of Kelly. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Northern Harrier: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Cow and Calf: I spotted this pair moving along the Gros Ventre, stopping occasionally stopping to feed, before crossing the road and heading towards Blacktail Butte. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Cow and Calf: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Moose Cow and Calf: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Shoshone: Shoshone and four other bulls were feeding on the south side of the Gros Ventre River this morning. He is already looks Great! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

July 4th, 2020 – Saturday – 4th of July

Teton Village Fireworks: Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Tripod.

Teton Village Fireworks: Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Tripod.

Morning Fireworks: We had a beautiful sunrise this morning! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Teton Sunrise: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Grand: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Passing Clouds: Click the image to see it larger. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Fireworks Tonight

• Snow King Mountain
• Teton Village
•   Lot near Wilson
• Alpine

Please: Stay Safe! Stay Apart!

Masks are now required in the Town of Jackson

White Pelican: I was out early for the sunrise, then headed north to see if I could find a bear or two before the crowds showed up. No bears for me, but I had fun with the Pelicans below the Jackson Lake Dam. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

White Pelican: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

White Pelican: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pelican and Merganser: I saw this Pelican chasing off a Merganser, but didn’t realize he was actually trying to take the Merganser’s catch. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Mule Deer Doe and Fawn:  This pair was grazing near the Moran Junction. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pronghorn: Seen grazing among the Purple Lupines at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 3rd, 2020 – Friday – 4th of July Weekend

Peach House: I hadn’t “planned” on going to Mormon Row this morning, but the sky looked better in the east than in the west as I made to Antelope Flats Junction. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

John Moulton Barn: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Murphy Barn: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

John Moulton Barn: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

John Moulton Barn Pano: The clouds finally opened up giving me a chance for a pano of the area. Click this image to see it larger. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Chambers Homestead: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Blacktail Ponds: Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Tripod.

Mallard Duck: Captured at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Cinnamon Black Bear: This young Black Bear was moving along the Moose-Wilson Road. I’ve seen him a couple of times this year. It has ear tags and a large collar…I removed it in Photoshop. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Red-naped Sapsucker: I saw this Sapsucker along the Moose-Wilson Road, so I parked the truck and eventually found it’s cavity nest. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Red-naped Sapsucker: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

Red-naped Sapsucker: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.

July 2nd, 2020 – Thursday

Red-tailed Hawks: Mother feeding her two chicks. I headed south this morning vs into Grand Teton National Park. As it turned out, I had a great “alternative” outing.  Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Northern Flickers: Mother feeding her baby. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Baby Male Flicker: I watched this youngster step out on the face of the tree…more out than in. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Baby Male Flicker: A few seconds after I took this shot, he flew about 40 yards to a new tree. You’d think he would need some flight training, but not so. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Baby Great Horned Owl: This is one of the baby Owls I photographed last month. I saw one adult and two of the three owlets, but the other adult and owlet could have easily been in the same grove of trees. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Baby Great Horned Owl: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pica Calling: Seen in a rock slide along Swift Creek. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Golden Mantled Ground Squirrel: The Marmots I photographed last month have moved on, but I found this mother Ground Squirrel in the same area. She had two babies hiding in the nearby rocks. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Golden Mantled Ground Squirrel: The babies are currently about one third the size of the adults. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Macey: Our Irish Creme Golden Retriever is a year and four months old now. She is definitely at home in the water! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

July 1st, 2020 – Wednesday

COVID-19 Notes & Comments

As July begins, the Coronavirus is spreading quickly across the country and it is affecting Teton County. If you come to Jackson Hole in July, you might need to know the status of the region. As I said numerous times in the June Daily Journal, visitors and locals “can” social distance by going to some of the less congested areas. That all goes out the window at a “bear jam”. I am hoping everyone stays careful and vigilant throughout the summer to help keep the park open. While not scientifically based, it appears there are as many tourists in town right now as in any previous year.

The 4th of July Parade is cancelled this year.

The 4th of July Pancake Breakfast is cancelled this year.

The Fireworks Display at Snow King is still on, but no one can enter the ball park at the base of the hill.

Town Council voted to require masks (see JH News & Guide article below) Teton County Commissioners discussing masks.

Town Council takes lead on backing communitywide mask order

WY Governor Gordon extends public health orders as cases climb

Beginning of July Notes

For the early morning risers or people willing to stay out late, there is plenty of wildlife visible. Some will head for shade during the hottest part of the day. The babies we saw in June are growing fast! Others are just appearing, such as the five baby Trumpeter Swans along Flat Creek. Both Black Bears and Grizzlies are still being seen along the base of the Tetons and around Pilgrim Creek and Willow Flats. Bull Moose’ antlers are starting to show reasonable sized growth. Same for Elk antlers. Some of the early season wildflowers are past prime, but other species are just now coming into prime. There’s still snow on the mountain peaks. Rivers are flowing fast, but are dropping and beginning to clear enough for the fly fishermen’s summer season.

June was a GREAT month for me this year. You might find that the first week or two of July to be similar to June. Click Here to see the June 2020 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH

Newest Feature Post: Teton Tots — The Babies of Spring

This page contains a selection of photos of this year’s babies.

July 1st Photos

Snake River Overlook: I was up and out early for sunrise. Fog was a “player” today. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Foggy Sunrise: Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Sunrise Pano: Click this image to see it quite a bit larger. There were a few clouds clinging to the tops of the Grand and Mt. Moran for much of the morning. Another ribbon of clouds hovered at the base of the mountains and fog filled the low areas in this shot. Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

Low Fog: Nikon D6 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.

White Pelican in Flight: Captured below the Jackson Lake Dam. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

White Pelican: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Mt. Moran: I took this one from the Jackson Lake Dam. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Purple Penstemon: These are usually common around Colter Bay. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Indian Paintbrush: Captured on the road to the summit at Signal Mountain. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Arrowleaf Balsom Root: There are still a lot of Balsom Root around Oxbow Bend. Mule’s Ear look similar and are move common in other areas of the park. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Colter Bay Marina: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Pronghorn Buck: Captured along the highway at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Bull: I looked for baby Bison this morning, but didn’t see them. I found a few nice looking bulls, however. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Bison Bull: This bull rubbed against the fallen log for quite a while, though he didn’t have a lot of winter fur left. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Sparring Bulls: Seen at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

Hovering Bluebird: Bluebirds can hover above the sagebrush, much like Osprey. This female was active not far from one of the Bison at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.

June was a GREAT month for me this year. You might find that the first week or two of July to be similar to June. Click Here to see the June 2020 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH

Newest Feature Post: Teton Tots — The Babies of Spring

This page contains a selection of photos of this year’s babies.

 

The post July 2020 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH first appeared on Best of the Tetons, Area Info & Photography.