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.
Videos
Swan Lake Flats
While doing an amphibian survey on Swan Lake Flats, I took a moment to peer into another world. Although fishless, the pond was full of life and the invertebrates seemingly swam with purpose. I remembered a science fair project on “pond scum” that I did in elementary school and the fascination I had for these animals. To this day, I still get excited when I visit this alien world.
The Plains Spadefoot Toad
I have the pleasure of working with the plains spadefoot toad (Spea bombifrons). A breeding population was recently confirmed in 2014. This video presents the bulbous tadpoles swimming in the shallow, ephemeral margins of a meadow pond. Take a closer look to see them in various stages of metamorphosis. In the Wildlife Health Program, we monitor Yellowstone’s amphibians for the presence of Chytrid fungus and Ranavirus — two deleterious diseases that have the potential to decimate populations.
Sassy Bison
Traveling through Lamar Valley, I stumbled upon these sassy bison. Spend some time in Yellowstone, the bison become a familiar sight. I don’t often stop to view them. Sometimes, however, they command attention.
The Lamar River
Snow is melting in the mountains and the rivers are swollen. I visited the Lamar River the other day. My adrenaline was pumping just by sitting next to the thunderous rush of water.