Finally, a Stellar's Jay

All the guide books write about the various birds you see in this area, and the favorite seems to be the Stellar's Jay – a gorgeous bright blue jay with a tufted head. We had seen a lot of wildlife, including many Gray Jays, but no Stellar's Jays.

I wanted some more early morning shots of Mount Meeker and knew that down by the corral offered one of the better views of it. So, up early again, I was out the door by 6:10 to catch the sunrise. Just as I got outside, I heard birds I had not heard before. When I looked, up, there were two Stellar's Jays just outside the main Lodge. I wasn’t able to get photos of them – I guess they are about as shy as the Bighorn Sheep – but at least I finally saw them. And, yes, they are as pretty as everyone says they are.

The walk down to the corral along with some nice views of Mount Meeker was a nice way to end the trip. The horses seemed to wonder why I was there – no one else was up. The new Palomino in particular, was very interested in me. He is just 4 years old and is a new acquisition for the ranch. Not yet ready to ride, he still seems to be a very friendly and eager young horse. Denny, the head wrangler, said he is happy with the progress he has made – he lets Denny put a saddle on him and has let Denny sit on him. He is kept in his own pen separate from the other horses so that he begins to associate human contact with good things. I gave him a last few strokes and said we would be back, hoping to see him in the saddle next year with Mr. Man, Bonnie, and all the other great horses we met this year.

The season is approaching the end for the ranch and the horses – they have 2 more weeks before they head down to Lyons to winter over in a 1,000 acre pasture. Before they go out, the ferrier removes their shoes so they really get to run wild. While some might think it cruel to keep them out all winter, those who have met them know that it is the best vacation they could ever ask for. They get to run wild, barefoot, while eating fresh, delicious grass with no human telling them what to do or putting saddles on them. Yes, they love to work but they need their holidays just like humans do.

Next up - Back to the big question, was it the right choice?