Although it hardly seems like spring is near, the signs that the season is beginning to change are all around. Grasses are becoming green in southern Pennsylvania and the buds are about to burst into leaves soon. The red hue on the ridge tops will be green in a few weeks’ time. As the season changes, we are entering the twilight of our deer trapping season. Continue reading “Spring is Coming”
Tag: perspective
In the Thick of Winter Deer Trapping
It’s been a while since I’ve been home. Hell, it’s been a while since I had a day off. In the thick of winter deer trapping, my life is consumed. By day we prepare and by night we capture deer, every day — repeat. Continue reading “In the Thick of Winter Deer Trapping”
The Art of Storylines
Needless to say, I spend many cold, uncomfortable, late-night hours in the blind. Sometimes, I keep busy by scanning our trapping site for deer, eagerly waiting for them to make their way under the net. However, this isn’t always my role and most nights are mind-numbing and boring. How do I endure these times? I welcome storylines! Continue reading “The Art of Storylines”
Is it Criminal?
In darkness, the truck lumbers up the windy road. A car follows about fifty yards behind. They were sent on a job this odd hour. They were told that it wouldn’t take long. Unbeknownst to them, a meeting was scheduled with a corpse. Continue reading “Is it Criminal?”
My First Deer
In the beginning of my wildlife journey, I remember watching a video of a biologist enter a clover trap to subdue a deer. It was exciting and frightening at the same time. With enthusiasm, I was proud to say, “that could be me one day!” The time has come to tackle a deer. Continue reading “My First Deer”
First Trapping Night
We combined forces. Our first trapping night was to be shared between the two crews. Many of us were green. Out of a dozen, maybe two or three had experience working with deer. We would perform under the supervision of our section leaders. Hopefully, their presence would provide guidance and not intimidation. We were nervous but excited to trap deer for the first time! Continue reading “First Trapping Night”
Anticipation
The first paragraph of a new chapter is neither here nor there. In the time between where I’ve been to where I’m going, there is much anticipation of what the future holds. I’d like to say that I’m used to changing things up every several months; the truth is, I know very little going into the next gig. Here I go again! Continue reading “Anticipation”
Making Ends Meet
One of the more difficult aspects of a career in wildlife is the temporary nature of our work. Thus far, I found myself here and there in each job for several months at a time. The problem is the unemployment between jobs. Sure, I love to be home but the financial hardship is stressful. Although I attended a public school, I still graduated with a large amount of debt. I often describe it as a small mortgage. Of course, in addition to that financial woe, we have the normal bills that must be paid — house, car, utilities, and the like. So, what do I do to make ends meet? This time, I tried driving for Uber. Continue reading “Making Ends Meet”
Seasons Change
Snow was on the ground when I arrived in Yellowstone. Before I left, snow fell and winter began her embrace on the landscape. The summer concluded abruptly and although I was forewarned, my tenure at Yellowstone had done the same. Now I have the pleasure of looking back upon my time. I was here long enough to see the seasons change. Continue reading “Seasons Change”
Shoshone Lake
This summer in Yellowstone, I discovered places to escape the crowds and find solitude. The first time I met Shoshone Lake, she gave me a cold shoulder. Since then, she’s warmed up to me and has provided a place of peace.