Tales from Nature: “Blondie” – by Wayne Hassinger, 3H Photography

Welcome back to Tales From Nature blog brought to you by 3H Photography. I’m excited to share a great experience from a few years back along with several of the limited edition pictures that came from the experience. “Blondie” is definitely one of my most awe-inspiring experiences out in the wild, and it is my hope that you can feel the excitement of the encounter.

“Blondie”

Late October in the Tetons means there’s a chance of snow at any moment. The elk are recovering from the rut, the majority of the tourists have gone home, and the bears are preparing for a long winter’s nap. As the grizzlies ready for hibernation, they spend much of their time digging for roots and bulbs or scavenging for anything edible in an effort to build up body fat. Because they’re so hyper-focused on foraging, they’re a little less concerned with other matters—creating great opportunities for the patient wildlife photographer.

On this fortunate afternoon in late October of 2016, I had the rare opportunity to spend some solitary time with the Teton grizzly sow known as Blondie. It was early afternoon on a mild fall day, and I’d decided to see what I could see in an area she was known to frequent. Settling in with my binoculars, a light breeze swirling around me, I soon spotted a grizzly ambling across an opening about 300 to 400 yards in front of me. I decided to stay put, setting up behind some brush to wait and watch.

As she drew closer, I realized exactly “who” she was, and when she emerged from a finger of timber, I began taking photos. As is typical during this foraging phase, her movement was a series of starts and stops—but she continued working her way in my direction. Did I mention it was just her and me? Very unusual, and absolutely fantastic!

At some point, I experienced what I call “lens freeze”—so focused on what was happening through the lens that I momentarily forgot what was happening outside it. Blondie had wandered to within 35 yards of me! As I snapped this image, I glanced over the top of my camera to see exactly where she was—and realized I might need to drop the camera and reach for the bear spray on my belt. Breathe.

We had started 300 to 400 yards apart, a comfortable distance for me and my 600mm lens, but now we were way too close. There was really nowhere for me to go, so I stayed still and waited. Then something remarkable happened—she laid down and posed for me. She gave me the perfect profile shot, sniffed the air, rose, and began walking parallel to my position.

I watched her amble away as I slowed my breathing and let the adrenaline settle. Without question, she knew I was there—you just know after years in the woods. I felt both fortunate and grateful for the experience. I always take every measure to keep my distance (at least 100 yards) and to respect the animals in their home. I’ve photographed numerous grizzlies, but this was the first time one had ever “snuck up” on me.

I’d love to hear from you, and I hope you’ll come back to visit soon for another Tale From Nature.

Visit Wayne’s website for 3H Photography to learn more …