Nature Photo of the month

This is an abbreviated version of what for me was one of my most physically challenging and exciting photographic opportunities.

Several years ago while visiting Montana, on the heels of a record snowstorm, I had the chance meet and develop a friendship with some of the locals. These fellows are serious woodsmen and hunters. I personally am not interested in hunting and cannot even imagine killing one of these incredible animals. During one of our many conversations they told me that not only is there a hunting season on cougars but also season called chase.During chase they can take the hounds out and track and chase and tree the animals but not kill them.

I indicated an interest in seeing something like that and to my amazement they invited me to join them. This for me was a difficult decision, because of the hounds. I knew this sort of opportunity was unlikely to occur again so I made the decision to go.

Cougars are very elusive and more often that not know where you are far before you are aware of their presence. This particular image was taken on my second year out with these fellows. Rough terrain, heavy heavy snow, often almost waist deep, steep mountain, not the most ideal hiking ( or climbing) conditions let alone photographic. Very long, very hard day but certainly exciting.

I was only using a 300 mm lens and being that close to one of these majestic animals is something I will never forget.

The sounds of this predator, the quiet of the snow covered forest, my heart beating, it was clear who the intruders were.

Jeri Childs