Wildlife photography is a passion for those who love to capture the beauty and behavior of the animals in their natural habitats. Capturing a Uinta Ground Squirrel feeding is a unique and thrilling experience, and in this blog post, I will share my experience of photographing one in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah.
The Uinta Ground Squirrel, also known as the Utah Ground Squirrel, is a species of ground squirrel native to the western United States. They are known for their distinctive stripes and are often seen foraging for food on the side of the road in their natural habitat. Watching them feed is a unique opportunity to observe their behavior and to capture their natural beauty in a photograph.
For this particular photograph, I set up my camera and lens on a beanbag draped over the rolled-down window of my vehicle. My friend Mia McPherson was my driver and guide, and she was the one who spotted the Uinta Ground Squirrel as it was feeding. The use of a beanbag was crucial in this scenario as it helped to steady my camera and lens, ensuring that the image was sharp and free from blur. The soft material of the beanbag also helps absorb any vibrations or movements, making it an essential tool for wildlife photography.
As I watched the Uinta Ground Squirrel feed, I patiently waited for the perfect moment to capture its behavior. It was fascinating to see how it would pause every now and then to look around, as if it was aware of its surroundings and looking for potential threats. It was during one of these pauses that I was able to capture a stunning image of the Uinta Ground Squirrel with its mouth full of food.
The Wasatch Mountains of Utah are a beautiful and diverse natural habitat that is home to a wide range of wildlife, making it an ideal location for wildlife photography. From majestic elk to curious marmots, there is always something to see and photograph. The Uinta Ground Squirrel is just one of the many fascinating wildlife species that can be found in this area.
In conclusion, photographing a Uinta Ground Squirrel feeding in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah was a truly special experience. Capturing the behavior and beauty of this small mammal in its natural habitat is a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world. The thrill of capturing these images, combined with the breathtaking scenery of the Wasatch Mountains, makes this a moment that I will always cherish.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: RF100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Wasatch Mountains (Utah)
- Date and Time Taken: June 2, 2022 (09:46 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/3200
- ISO: 1000 (Auto)
- Focal Length: 500 mm