Bighorns

In a quiet little desert community, overlooking a beautiful blue lake, there sits a grassy knoll where something truly magical happens. During dawn a herd of bighorn sheep come down from the mountains and feast upon the delicious grass. Some of us humans are lucky enough to see them and spend time watching them. They usually show up at dawn during or after the sunrise, and closer to dusk before the sun sets on the land. We drove up in the afternoon the other day and were fortunate enough to see a male and female grazing. Our daughter finally got to see a bighorn sheep in real life. It was a fantastic memory. She had always looked through my husband and my old pictures and would ask every hike we took her on if we were going to see a bighorn. This was definitely a core memory.

These bighorns are used to people being around so they kept on grazing even when others got too close and were trying to take pictures. When out on trails, it is best to give wildlife a lot of space and always remember that we are in their habitat, their home. We are guests. Wildlife are unpredictable and should be given the opportunity to feel safe so they can run away if they sense any danger. Please give them space. Looking at them from afar has always been best and there are signs out on trails or the road to the trails reminding everyone to not feed the wildlife. They need to be able to fend for themselves and find food or water whenever they need to in order to survive. These were just some thoughts that popped into my head as I watched the many people approach the male bighorn sheep.

While my daughter and I were observing the sheep, the female decided she was over being looked at by the bystanders and took off slowly to the hills. It was remarkable to watch the male keep an eye on her, and follow her every move while surveying the people, so he could keep her safe. He slowly inched closer to the hills every time she took a step away from him. He was a very beautiful and protective male. Once she was safely walking back up the hill into the mountain, he finally started to leave completely. I was so thankful to have this experience with my daughter and watch the joy and wonder on her little face. Have any of you ever had a wonderful animal encounter?

Thank you for reading and I hope you have a wonderful Friday!

-Karen Hilliard

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