I love it when it only takes a few minutes before I spot wildlife! On today's mid-day hike, I spotted two young bulls just a quarter mile after leaving the trailhead. I've gotten better at taking my time, and this pair would have been really easy to miss if I was walking too fast. It's amazing how well they can blend in sometimes.

The first bull was bedded down and happy enough to sit there for most of the visit. It's possible that this was Maverick from last May, but it's really tough to tell be sure about such a young moose after a year. Maybe I'll get a better look another time. Like Maverick, he was very comfortable -- eating snow, yawning and relaxed. After a bit of time passed, I heard branches breaking a little further back in the willows. Both young males were back in the willows the entire time, so it wasn't the most amazing opportunity... but I love building that relationship and trust. Eventually, the larger male got up and started scratching his antler buds on a tree branch before grazing again. I'll go back soon to see if I can some better shots soon.