It’s been a snowy, cold, gloomy January. It’s hard to believe that we had clear weather and bare ground at this time last year (see: Winterspring).
While I love the unpredictable moodiness of Northwest winters, the sporadic windows of sunny weather are welcome reassurances that the valley will eventually see pleasant days again. Last Monday, the sanctuary was lucky enough to get a glimpse of the clear blue beyond for a few minutes, drenching the frozen tundra in warm sunshine.
At the time, the entire sanctuary had been coated with hoarfrost for several days. These feathery deposits of ice are created when fog freezes on cold surfaces, thereby giving them a “hairy” appearance. The phenomenon looks absolutely amazing when illuminated by sunlight and outlined by turquoise skies, and the property’s numerous Ponderosa pines are particularly stunning when adorned with the frosty spikes.
I don’t know if the chimps appreciated the hoarfrost as much as I did, but they definitely seemed to enjoy the sun’s rays. When I went to see what the chimps were up to that afternoon, I found most of them lounging on the elevated platforms in their respective greenhouse enclosures, grooming and snoozing the hours away. Only Dora was interested enough in my presence to shift her gaze, studying my camera and nodding approvingly before rolling back over for another nap.
Paulette says
Wow! Amazing photography! One of the pics of a tree close up looked like a whole tree full of caterpillars. Like this little guy
https://live.staticflickr.com/8264/8705349745_bffffc35e0_b.jpg
Françoise says
If I recall correctly, this guy is poisonous, as in has a stinging irritant if you touch it. But it may only look like the one i am thinking of.
Tobin says
Surely Young’s Hill and her immediate surroundings have had a lot of snow this winter. Even so, from what I read your neck of the woods could benefit from some moisture which, I dearly hope, will preclude another wildfire and drought season this summer. Besides which, after last January, Burrito is entitled to treat himself to the all-you-can eat snow buffet.
tom austin says
In 1961-62 while at Fort Carson, training up on the continental divide brought forth an abundance of sleet, snow, rain and all manner of beautiful scenery…..don’t plan to live in that environment again, but occansional visits have been very enjoyable…….
CarolR says
Beautiful photography as always Anthony, and very much appreciated. We’re sweltering through our hot and humid summer here in Australia so these photos made me feel a bit cooler….if only for five minutes!
Linda C says
Well, it will definitely tell you which way the wind is blowing, Anthony!
Lovely pics of the cold outdoors, and a warm smile from Li’l Dora!
Nancy D says
I’m just echoing the other’s comments on how beautiful the pictures
are–great photography!
Mark B. says
In the 36 years I have been in my house in Ballard, I have experienced hoarfroast only once and that was years ago now. It was magical not only for the sheer beauty of it, but all the more for its rarity.
Kathleen says
Looks as if everything at the sanctuary is pilo erect! Mother Earth is displaying. Beautiful photos Anthony. Especially sweet Dora who looks as if she has dome hoarfrost-floof on top of her shoulder.
Kathleen says
that is supposed to be “some” not “dome” 🙂
Marya says
These are wonderful, Anthony! Harkens me back to my years in Indiana. Thanks for sharing your “eye” with us! They’re really magical images, including Dora’s half-asleep peaceful pose.
Deanna says
oh Dora is such a QT pie!!! Beautiful photos!