Indian Peaks Wilderness, Colorado

A young Boreal owl with her fresh kill. This photo was taken during a December pulk-sled trek in the Indian Peaks Wilderness of Colorado. The intent of this trip was to photograph Lone Eagle Peak in winter conditions. However, massive snow accumulation at the higher elevations made it impossible to continue even with the aid of snowshoes. Fortunately, this trip was saved the next morning when this small owl plucked a squirrel from it's nest and perched on a nearby boulder long enough for me to take a few shots before it flew off again. Although this was a lucky shot, I find that the more time I spend outdoors the more opportunities I am granted to take advantage of fleeting moments like this.