Every day, in the wilds, I have to wonder how many eyes are watching me?  How many critters can see me, yet remain hidden?   Too many to count, I'm sure.

Yesterday, on a rainy day dirt-road drive through a section of the White Mountain National Forest, we got lucky and saw a buck run into the woods ahead of us.  I figured he was long gone, but Jimmy stopped the truck anyway and although it was dark and he was in the woods, he hung around and stared straight at my camera.  It was such a pleasant surprise and lovely gift.  

One of my favorite photographers is Joel Sartore.  Mr. Sartore has worked for National Geographic for decades, and has devoted his life to his passion-project, creating The Photo Ark, a photographic record of all of the world's species in human care.   While this renowned photographer has taken images of creatures in all corners of the world, his photos for the Photo Ark are taken in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries (more information on that can be found HERE).  

In 2018 I took the opportunity to photograph non-domesticated animals in captivity.   The Maine Wildlife Park, in Gray, has over 30 species of animals who, for various reasons, cannot be returned to the wild.  Where else could I get a photo of two cougars cuddling in a cave, a shy peacock, or a gray fox?  

If its good enough for Joel Sartore and for National Geographic, it works for me!