I was out before dawn, to shoot bison at RMA. They were in a spot where the grass sort of swallowed them - in spite of their mass. I have no idea why the male did the "lip curl" behavior, which I normally associate with rut. This image was taken ~ 15 minutes after sunrise.
Posted by Jack Brauer on December 21, 2007 at 3:16 PM
Great shots, Dave! I love the ambient orange surroundings. I especially like the second shot.
Posted by Todd Caudle on December 21, 2007 at 4:25 PM
I like that first one the most, but they're both awesome.
Posted by Dan Walters on December 21, 2007 at 6:15 PM
Great images! The light is great!
Posted by Chad Rudd on December 21, 2007 at 7:16 PM
Very nice, Dave! I don't know much about Bison but have been around cattle all of my life. Is it possible the cow is in heat? Most cow/calf operators typically expose their females to the bull for specific periods, both for timing and uniformity of calf crop. However, some of the lazier guys just let the bull have free reign (much like animals in the wild), and cows come into heat and have calves at all times of the year. Even with cows not in heat, a bull will put his face in a cow's urine stream and end up with a curled lip.
Posted by Bill Pelzmann on December 21, 2007 at 11:10 PM
He probably wants a date with you, Dave.
Nice shots. I'm looking forward to getting out to the RMA.
George Cole promised me a tour once it reopens.
Posted by Don Grall on December 21, 2007 at 11:39 PM
Great shots, Was he blowing you a kiss?
Posted by Guy Schmickle on December 22, 2007 at 12:17 AM
Discussion
9 repliesVery nice, Dave! I don't know much about Bison but have been around cattle all of my life. Is it possible the cow is in heat? Most cow/calf operators typically expose their females to the bull for specific periods, both for timing and uniformity of calf crop. However, some of the lazier guys just let the bull have free reign (much like animals in the wild), and cows come into heat and have calves at all times of the year. Even with cows not in heat, a bull will put his face in a cow's urine stream and end up with a curled lip.
Nice shots. I'm looking forward to getting out to the RMA.
George Cole promised me a tour once it reopens.