Mt. Rainier National Park has got wildflowers, geology, and glaciers. And there is wildlife too!
The Daily Bucket is a regular feature of the Backyard Science group. It is a place to note any observations you have made of the world around you. Snails, fish, insects, weather, meteorites, climate, birds and/or flowers. All are worthy additions to the bucket. Each note is a record that we can refer to in the future as we try to understand the patterns that are quietly unwinding around us. Please let us know what is going on around you in a comment. Include, as close as is comfortable for you, where you are located.
Follow me below the fuzzy fluff of fur for a sampling of the wildlife we encountered on our recent vacation to "the Mountain."
Let's start small and work our way up in size.
The wildflower meadows were impressively full of butterflies. I'm no expert on butterfly ID so corrections will be appreciated.
Tiger swallowtail butterfly on asters
Anise swallowtail (I think)
I wanted to see a Pika on the rocky slopes, but every time I spotted a small scampering critter, it turned out to be either a chipmunk or a ground squirrel.
Yellow pine chipmunk looking for natural things to eat (i.e., not begging from hikers)
Ground squirrels were always evident at popular hiker snack stops. These were just going about their business.
Golden mantled ground squirrel after grooming its tail
Golden mantled ground squirrel collecting nest materials
Whenever I see a grouse, it seems to be standing stock-still right next to a road or trail. So I can't tell you much else about their natural behavior. This one was right beside the Stevens Canyon road, photographed from the car.
Sooty grouse
Ah, the life of a marmot!
Hoary marmot sunning itself, but aware of my presence
The mother deer and fawn were browsing near the trail. Mom ignored us.
Curious fawn
Mom isn't concerned, but I'm outta here
Your turn!
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