It was a beautiful autumn day when I decided to go on a hike in the Ouachita National Forest. As I was walking along the trail, I spotted some movement in an old dead tree up ahead. When I got closer, I saw two tiny faces peeking out from a hole in the trunk – they were young Eastern Gray Squirrels!
These curious little creatures watched me intently as I approached. I could tell they were juveniles based on their small size and fluffy tails. They looked absolutely adorable peering out from their hiding spot.
I sat down quietly at the base of a nearby tree and watched to see if they would emerge. But the squirrels continued to keep a watchful eye on me, not yet brave enough to come out.
After observing them for a little while, I slowly took out my camera and was able to capture a few photos of them cautiously peeking out from the tree hole. I had to be very still and patient in order to photograph these easily-startled babies.
It was an enjoyable encounter getting to see these young squirrels up close. Although they were shy at first, it gave me hope that they will continue to thrive in this forest as long as their habitat remains protected. Moments like these are why I love photographing wildlife in our beautiful Ouachita National Forest.