August 15th, 2012
Big Horn Sheep, Colorado’s State Symbol, Roosevelt National Forest, A Magnificent Elk at Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Monday was one of those days you do not want it to end. Still visiting my friend, Marisa in Colorado with my other friend, Cindi, we decide to take off for Fort Collins to experience an afternoon of whitewater rafting. It turned out to be an exhilarating time, which I will tell you on another post.
From Fort Collins we continued to Estes Park, which is located in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Village is quaint, full of shops and eateries. It is a destination for those who love the outdoors.
We were entering Roosevelt National Forest when the drive started to get even more gorgeous than before.
I was wondering if we would see any wildlife. Marisa was telling us about the Big Horn Sheep. She had only seen them one other time.
When I saw the sign describing the Big Horn Sheep, I took a picture thinking that’s all I would get to see.
Surprise, surprise. As we came up the road we saw the people just braking to a stop. Getting out with cameras on hand. Bikers stopping, as well.
There they were. Some by the road and some in much higher rocks.
The Big Horn Sheep has been Colorado’s State Symbol. The Rocky Mountain Bighorns are found only in the Rockies, above the timberline, in extremely rugged terrain.
They are known for their agility and perfect balance.
They are social; separated in 2 groups. The mature in one and the ewes, lambs, and young rams in another.
This particular herd we saw did just that. They were not very old. Only one seem to be more of a leader.
Social status is established by body and horn size.
Just beautiful and the perfect ending to a day full of excitement.
Tuesday was another day of exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park. I hoped to see more wildlife.
The Park was full of visitors on a beautiful day. As we were coming down the Park, the most magnificent Elk was there; almost like waiting for us. We all stopped to take pictures of this elegant and majestic animal who in some way knew he owned the Park.
Through my stay in Colorado I have taken so many pictures. Post are yet to be written…soon though.
Talk to you later.
Tags: Activities, Big Horn Sheep, Colorado, Colorado's State Symbol, Elk, Rocky Mountain National Park, Roosevelt National Forest
That’s a big elk, and you caught it shedding it’s velvet. Very cool.
It was so gorgeous and what a surprise as we were coming down the mountain. Thanks for your comments!!