Tag / Rocky Mountains

Mule deer are found in the Western portion of North America – the Rocky Mountain regions and get their name from their large “mule like” ears.  They are more grey in colour than their cousin the White Tailed Deer. The mule deer’s tail is black-tipped, whereas the whitetail’s is not. Mule deer forage and mate in the fall as do others in the deer family with fawns being born in the spring.   Humans and automobiles top the list of enemies but their natural enemies would be mountain lions, coyotes and also bears.  They are always alert and rely on speed to avoid harm.  These photos were taken in Alberta near Jasper.

Enjoy!

~Sharon

Perhaps you will decide to visit Alberta this summer and if you do a great road to travel is Highway 11 – the David Thompson Highway. There are many sights and attractions along this route.  From Red Deer, this highway will take you to Rocky Mountain House, Nordegg and will end at the Saskatchewan Crossing  where it meets the Icefields Highway.  You can then go either direction to Banff and Lake Louise area or to Jasper.  The Columbia Icefields are found here also.  Today, a few photos from the Nordegg area along the David Thompson route.  The enormity and beauty of the Canadian Rockies cannot be put into words and the colours of the mountain lakes are spectacular. We stayed at Aurum Lodge, an eco-friendly lodge overlooking Abraham lake – very peaceful and relaxing location away from the high tourist zones.

Below: Abraham Lake

Enjoy!

~Sharon

As I was reviewing my Alberta Wildlife section I noticed this cute little Columbian Ground Squirrel was omitted. Mostly grey with some golden/brown highlights here and there.  These gopher sized ground squirrels were hanging out along a walking path to a waterfall and gratefully accepting handouts from passersby.  Easy to take photos of as they did not duck under cover at all.   This one turned its back on me however, so I guess I have been officially “dissed” by a ground squirrel !

Enjoy!

Sharon