What to do in the Rain

Our morning sky

We headed back to Yellowstone... figured somewhere within in the Park would be dry enough to watch animals.  Worked out fine until we returned to camp just before the next downpour started.  The 40% chance is not working out too well... turned out that camp was dry all day.  It kept threatening, but never cut loose until we showed up after dinner.  Go figure. 

 

Our day in the Park was fine... enough sun to keep us happy and the most amazing skies.  The herds of bison are back close to the road so we ate our lunch and watched the groups cross the river.  The Rangers were having a 'blast' driving up and down the road trying to keep the animal and vehicle traffic moving at a reasonable rate...not always a success in either case.

 

Bison crossing the road...traffic jams

 

Bull bison on the left

The bulls have started to pay attention to the ladies.  No other animals showed themselves, but it is awesome to watch and listen to the bison.  Their grunts carry a good distance and are more interesting to listen to than the radio.

Walking toward last month's carcass remains

When we reached the area of the dead bison from last month.  We noticed that then the 'closed' signs had been removed.  Weird that the Rangers had already reopened the area, but we figured what the heck... then we had second thoughts.  Once I reached the site the bones had been scattered about and there was still that lingering smell.  Slightly concerned I became shall we say apprehensive about the possibilities of a passing bear and really should have carried my bear spray with me.  Coop and Bill watched from the roadway...so they could call in the Rangers per Bill.  

 

Fascinating to see what was left... hide, hair, hooves, the skull, jawbone, back bone... bits and pieces.  The flies are cleaning up the leftovers and we're pretty sure a stray animal is stopping by to chew on the leftover bones.

 

Bison skull...with flies included

  

Blue Heron

Amazing skies

Lunchtime entertainment

Bull bison on the prowl

Calf in still in his orange phase

 

Tomorrow we're unsure what the weather is up to... supposed to be sunny,  but one never knows around here.  Hiking or animal watching that is the question.

Not much else about our day in the Park except we did stop and get a shower at Mammoth Lodge... it was fantastic.

 

Views leaving the Park...Paradise Valley