Sharing the Trail

Having grown up in Colorado as an avid hiker and camper, I've long been aware of our region's diverse wildlife. Still, knowing about the thriving animal populations just outside my front door is different than seeing photographic evidence of all the creatures with whom I share our local trails.

Recently I checked out the Bobcat Ridge Wildlife Camera Project's website, where a number of recent photos captured via heat- and motion-activated cameras from our local natural areas are displayed. The diversity of animal species, and sheer numbers of photos captured, is impressive. Deer, elk, bears, mountain lions, coyotes... images of these animals and others are right there, demonstrating conclusively that when we head out on the trails, we're entering the habitat of a lot of creatures, many of them capable of savoring us as their next snack.

And I'm totally fine with that. In fact, I gain a great deal of peace from venturing into the wild.

But just so you're all aware of our fellow "trail runners" who join us every day on the local trails, I thought I'd post a few of the more interesting shots from the Bobcat Ridge Wildlife Camera Project. Enjoy -- and see you on the trail!

Large elk herd.

Coyote in the snow.

Black bear cubs.

Western spotted skunk.

Fox.

Mountain Lion.

Cinnamon black bear.

Bobcat.