Where the Buffalo Roam

Figure 1. Bison, Grand Teton National Park, WY.

While wildlife watchers complain not seeing certain wildlife, you won't hear them complain not seeing bison. Indeed, bison are one of the easiest seen wildlife in national parks. Among these parks, Yellowstone is the best place to see them. It is hard to believe some one spends couple days there and doesn't see a bison. Most of the time, they complain seeing too many and these animals cause traffic jams. Ironically, it is quite difficult to get a good bison shot. though they can be seen easily.

During g a trip in May, I spent some days in Grand Teton and Yellowstone. One day I drove along Gros Ventre River in Grand Teton and met a heard of bison. There were roughly 400 bison heading west, and some are close to the road. I decided to give it a try and see if I can get some good shots. I like the shot in Figure 1. It is not a close-up, but a environmental wildlife shot. On the whole, the composition and tone are good. It could be more attractive if the size is larger. Typically, I like blue sky and trees with green leaves. Somehow the gray sky and leafless trees work fine. The bison in the foreground, trees in the middle and ridge in the background give the sense of the depth of space. Although I saw most bison in Yellowstone, this shot in Grand Teton is my favorite.

Sometimes it's hard to tell what was really happening in the photo. On the scene, you have many directions to aim as bison are everywhere. Since they are moving, the opportunity doesn't last long and you need to be fast. It takes some time and judgment to get the right shot. Fortunately I got this one among many shots.