Roadrunners and a Coyote

[monik7]

I arrived at Furnace Creek in Death Valley about noon today. While walking a block over to the store, there was a pair of roadrunners just hanging out next to the road. They weren't even afraid of me. I crossed the road and while walking through the small parking lot a coyote was leisurely walking the same way I was. Not a care in the world. I just kept walking and so did he. Eventually he crossed some grass, went out to the road and crossed. Darn!! I didn't have my phone to take a pic, but it was a nice experience.
Sandi

[avalen]

Well that would be a nice experience,

[Bethers]

Kewl!

[JudyJB]

I was there a couple of years ago in early January when it was literally freezing at night. The campground was only about 15% full, so the coyotes were constantly wandering through to drink from Furnace Creek, which was flowing nicely. In fact, one day when I drove out for the day, I stopped and took a photo of ice on Furnace Creek.

Then one day, when I was leaving Scotty's Castle near the end of the day, there was a coyote on the high bank across the entrance roadway. She/he was looking at the visitor center there and licking her chops, so I assumed she/he was heading for the trash or maybe was even used to being fed there.

Got to give those critters who live there some serious credit for surviving and making a living in that place! I am planning on going back out there next winter.

[monik7]

I was there a couple of years ago in early January when it was literally freezing at night. The campground was only about 15% full,

Got to give those critters who live there some serious credit for surviving and making a living in that place! I am planning on going back out there next winter.

I'm in the Sunset boondocking campground. I guess Christmas week must be their slow time because out of 270 spaces, there are only 9 rigs and 2 hosts. It was a beautiful day today and got up to about 65* and will go down to 34* tonight. Next couple of days will be warmer pushing 70* during the day and 40s at night. The coyote I saw was well fed. Not the least bit thin.

I'm happy because I found a cowboy hat at the store for my next mule ride to the bottom of Grand Canyon in April. They require a wide-brimmed hat and I look so silly in those hiking hats. At least I don't look QUITE so silly in the cowboy hat.
Sandi

[chalet05]

You were out walking without your phone!?! I'm glad you decided to get away and have already seen fun things!

[JudyJB]

That's perfect weather. It was a bit too cold when I was there, plus my little electric heater died, and I had to drive 40 miles to get a propane refill. It was also too cold the day I wanted to hike around the crater--got bundled up in several layers including a winter jacket, but the wind was so strong, I just was too cold. Will check weather reports next time I go.

It is certainly a great place to visit off-season! More animals and much more peaceful. I envy you.

[Liz]

Neat wildlife encounters! Be sure to post a pic of you in your new cowboy hat!