This weekend was wild. I’ve been out chasing critters again — camera in hand, coffee in the cup holder, and zero expectations other than maybe seeing something cool. Northern New Hampshire has a way of surprising you when you least expect it, and this weekend definitely delivered.
First up: A Fox Den!
Sunday evening, I decided to go for a walk. It was one of those late spring nights where the air smells like pine and mud (you know the one), and the light was starting to get that dreamy golden glow. I wasn’t even out looking for anything specific — just needed some fresh air and maybe a nice shot if I was lucky.
Then I saw something move in the distance, reddish and low to the ground. My heart immediately jumped. I crouched down, lifted my camera, and sure enough — a fox. But not just one. A whole family! Kits were bouncing around, chasing each other near the den, and a parent was keeping a watchful eye nearby.
Of course, it was getting late. The light was fading fast, and I was way too far away to get anything sharp. I fired off a few shots just to remember the moment, but they’re not what I’d call wall-worthy. Still, I was grinning the whole way home. I found a fox den. That’s gold in my book.
You better believe I’ll be heading back there soon — earlier in the day, with snacks and patience. Hoping to catch them playing again, this time with better light (and a bit more stealth on my part).
Monday Morning: Loons and Crawfish
The next morning, I set my alarm early and hit the road with loons on my mind. There’s something about their call across a lake that gets me every time — it’s eerie and beautiful and kind of haunting. I’d scoped out two lakes nearby that loons are known to hang around, so I figured I’d give them a shot.
Lake One: I spotted a pair! But… they spotted me too. They slowly swam off into the mist like a couple of mysterious water ghosts. No hard feelings, guys. I get it.
Lake Two: This one was a jackpot. As I rolled up near the edge of the lake, there they were — two loons, right by the shoreline, just chillin’. I practically parked in a bush (safely, don’t worry), grabbed my gear, and tiptoed down to the edge.
One of the loons dove under and popped back up with a crawfish in its beak. Breakfast, served. And I got the shot. Crisp, clear, awesome lighting — it was one of those moments that made getting up early totally worth it. I may or may not have done a little happy dance by the water’s edge.
What’s Next: Eagles? Baby Loons? Yes, Please.
So now I’ve got two new spots to keep my eye on. I’ve seen eagles around these lakes before, so I’m hoping to catch one swooping in or maybe perched somewhere looking majestic. That would be a dream shot — but you never know with these birds. They like to keep us guessing.
Even more exciting? If the loons I saw are nesting (fingers crossed), we could be seeing baby loons soon. Little fuzzballs hitching rides on their parents’ backs? Yes. Yes. And YES. That’s the kind of cuteness I’m here for.
I’ll be visiting both lakes again soon, trying to be in the right place at the right time — preferably without being eaten alive by bugs. (Why is it always mosquito season when the good stuff happens?)
Wildlife Photography: Not Always Glamorous, But Always Worth It
People sometimes think wildlife photography is just snapping pretty pictures all day. Ha. It’s a lot of waiting, swatting bugs, getting muddy, and whispering “please come closer” under your breath while crouching behind a tree. But every now and then, something magical happens — and that’s what keeps me coming back for more.
So, that’s the update from the field! A fox den, some shy loons, one hungry loon who made my morning, and a whole lot of anticipation for what’s next. I’ll be heading back to these spots again (and again), so stay tuned.
Thanks for coming along for the ride — and if you’ve seen anything wild lately, drop it in the comments. I love hearing about your nature encounters, too!