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Saturday, October 10, 2009

Camera Critters: The Dominant Bull

Today we take a break from the controversial subjects and take a look at what proved to be the dominant bull at the Gilbert Viewing Area during my recent trip to Pennsylvania's Elk Country.
The following photos were taken with a Canon 40-D with Canon 500mmF4 L lens and 1.4x extender.

Bull Bugles As Cow Turns Away

Dominant Bull (9x8) Bugles

On another positive note, it seems that serious interest in photographing the elk herd is increasing rapidly. Only a few short years ago, it was a rarity to see the long, top end lenses deployed on Winslow Hill, but they were there in plenty this year. In fact I probably saw more in two weeks this year, than I have in the previous ten years added together. This indicates that contrary to statements from naysayers that the Pennsylvania Wilds Program is a failure, that it is in fact succeeding in attracting visitors from a wider area, and also drawing more serious photographers.

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17 comments:

  1. SquirrelOctober 10, 2009 at 11:13 AM

    Great captures!

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  2. This Is My Blog - fishing guyOctober 10, 2009 at 1:13 PM

    Willard: What a wonderful rack that bull carries.

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  3. i beatiOctober 10, 2009 at 1:18 PM

    yes sirree

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  4. eileeninmdOctober 10, 2009 at 1:44 PM

    I have been enjoying your Elk photo for camera critters, and this week they are wonderful.

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  5. CarlettaOctober 10, 2009 at 2:25 PM

    Fantastic shots Willard!
    I'd love to make a trip there. I'm thinking I wouldn't get a very good photo cause I've nowhere near the lens to get a shot that far. :)

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  6. TomOctober 10, 2009 at 2:42 PM

    Hi Willard..
    Great pictures and I'm glad to hear more interest is being shown.. one thing I noticed on this bull that I've not noticed before is those backward facing tines at the top of the antlers.. do all bulls have them?

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  7. AnonymousOctober 10, 2009 at 8:12 PM

    Wonderful photos and great news!

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  8. Cezar and LéiaOctober 11, 2009 at 7:18 AM

    Very interesting post, they are beautiful and glorious!
    Happy Camera critters
    purrs and always love
    Luna

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  9. CamconativeOctober 11, 2009 at 8:08 AM

    excellent shots, as always! I enjoy your blog very much, keep up the good work.

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  10. Calico CrazyOctober 11, 2009 at 11:29 AM

    He's a beauty! Glad to hear that people are taking an interest, it's an important step in protecting all the wonderful animals on our planet.

    Calico Contemplations

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  11. imacOctober 11, 2009 at 3:17 PM

    Wonderful shots Willard.
    Glad they are beginning to use the camera these days.

    Pics all sorted, Now to start Posting.lol.

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  12. AnonymousOctober 11, 2009 at 8:41 PM

    Excellent images of the dominant bull, Willard. Thanks for sharing and keeping us abreast of happenings with the elk herd.


    www.itsmynaturephotography.com

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  13. sfrielOctober 12, 2009 at 7:32 AM

    Great shots Willard!!!!! Great article! It seems that the elk heard is being micro managed, maybe they should just leave them alone for a few years. NO HUNT!!!!!!!!

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  14. PeggyOctober 12, 2009 at 1:51 PM

    Fantastic photos Willard! You can always capture the mood! I guess he isn't sexy enough for her...

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  15. Misty DawnSOctober 12, 2009 at 5:17 PM

    This is just outstanding. I can imagine that my heart would be beating like crazy if I were to see one of these magnificent creatures in person!

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  16. TomOctober 14, 2009 at 3:29 AM

    Thank you very much Willard for popping over and leaving me you answer.... The backward facing tine looks as if it could do much damage...

    I look forward to your next posting my friend... I think I learn more from yours and Coy's blogs than any others... I have also questioned my actions in the past concerning 'poaching' even if the games was small compaired to yours. I now prefer pointing a camera at wildlife than shooting anyday... :O)

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  17. SaraGOctober 15, 2009 at 3:11 PM

    Great photo's Willard!
    I would love to come and take pictures of the Elk there one day!!
    But till then I will have to enjoy your photo's! Which I do very much!!

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