Antelope Island State Park in Utah is a prime destination for wildlife photographers, and I had the opportunity to capture an amusing yet perplexing moment – a Bison with its tongue stuck up its nose! As a nature enthusiast, I couldn’t help but wonder why the Bison was doing this.
Bison, also known as American Buffalo, are majestic and iconic creatures that once roamed the Great Plains in North America. Today, they can be found in protected areas such as national parks and state reserves. They are known for their massive size, shaggy coat, and impressive horns, which can reach up to two feet in length.
However, what makes this Bison unique is its behavior of sticking its tongue in its nose. While it may seem like a silly and pointless activity, it is actually an essential part of their survival strategy. During the winter months, when the air is dry and the grass is scarce, Bison use their long tongues to extract moisture from their nostrils, which helps keep their nasal passages moist and prevents them from drying out and cracking.
Furthermore, Bison also use their tongues to clear their nasal passages of any debris or irritants such as dust, dirt, and insects. This is especially important during the summer months when flies and other insects are abundant and can cause irritation and infections.
As I watched this Bison stick its tongue in its nose repeatedly, I couldn’t help but appreciate the incredible adaptability and resourcefulness of these magnificent creatures. Their unique behavior is a testament to the ways in which animals have evolved to survive in their respective environments.
In conclusion, encountering this Bison with its tongue stuck up its nose was a reminder of how there is always something new to discover and learn about the animals that share our planet. It was a unique moment that I will always remember, and I hope to capture more such fascinating encounters in the future.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: RF100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Antelope Island State Park (Utah)
- Date and Time Taken: June 1, 2022 (09:49 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/1600
- ISO: 1600 (Auto)
- Focal Length: 145 mm
Here are a few more Bison Photos I took on this trip: Bison Taking A Dirt Bath, Bison Calf At Antelope Island State Park and Bison Closeup at Antelope Island State Park