Desert Tortoise.
I was thrilled to finally see a wild desert tortoise last weekend. On top of being a threaten species, these tortoise spend more then 95% below ground in burrows. That combination makes them a rare sight.
I spotted one while mountain biking last weekend, but by the time I returned to my vehicle and grabbed my camera, I was unable to find her. I have looked for her everyday since then – how far can a tortoise go! I finally spotted her again yesterday while doing some more mountain biking photos. This time I had my camera - what a treat!
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
awesome find Ron! good thing you didn’t mistake the turtle for a rock! can you get close to them w/o spooking them?
Thanks Richard!
They really do blend in with the rocks. You can get pretty close without really bothering them. This was with my 100-400 at 400. When we first found her, she went into her shell, but I laid down and watched and after a few minutes she popped back out and then walked off. It was really cool.
Ron
hey Ron,
Way cool – nice low perspective, and the harmonious tones really are nice.
Cheers
Carl
Thanks Bud!
Congrats on finally getting a shot Ron!
Found your blog after finding your website. Beautiful photography…
I must return and see more.
sandy
Thanks a lot Mark and Sandy!
Ron
Great shot of this tortoise. I’m hoping to add more herps to my collection this spring.
Hey thanks Kari!