RMA bull bison

I visited RMA today and was happy to see the bison hanging out in the area where they were released on the 17th. They are doing well - one bull was injured on the trip down, but appears to be recovering.

This bull was pretty impressive when he turned to look at me before heading out for a day of grazing.

Sweet! I had planned on going up today but came down ill. Thanks for this inspiration!

Nice shot! Really like the head-on view.

Nice viewpoint! I hope that you took this with a looong lens.

I have a question about photography in the arsenal. I was thinking of bring my family there this weekend. So I called up to ask about wildlife viewing. They mentioned that the only way to see and photograph the bison was thru the tram window while taking a guiding tour in their area. I asked if there was any way to view bison apart from the tram tour and the women said no.

I am wondering if Dave had 'special' access for his shots or if he had to compose from the tram?

I know there are hiking trails in the arsenal. I just don't know how much wildlife you can actually see on your own.

Does anyone have any experience with viewing access, etc...?

Thanks,

- Derek

Yes, I have special access. I have been the RMA "volunteer" photographer for over three years. Bison viewing access will improve. They are in a chilling out period while they get comfortable with the new surroundings. Employees and volunteers are to stay away from the fence and no one is going inside the enclosure for about a month. The FWS doesn't want the bison to challenge the fence, because a wild bison can go through anything if motivated. I took this picture through the fence with a 600mm at F4.

I'll let everyone know when things change..........It's still cool to take kids out and show them the only wild bison on the CO prairie!