2024 Rewind
Walking on the Wild Side
Happy New Year!
As we step into 2025, let’s kick things off with a look back at some of my favorite highlights from 2024. From unforgettable adventures to heartwarming moments, there’s plenty to share—just a heads-up: adorable animals may make an appearance!
"The University of Leeds have discovered a way to reduce stress – our researchers have identified that watching videos and images of cute animals can help reduce stress levels by up to 50%." (2020, October 7). What are the health benefits of watching cute animals?. School of Biomedical Sciences | University of Leeds. https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/school-biomedical-sciences/news/article/273/what-are-the-health-benefits-of-watching-cute-animals )
Read more on this study HERE
Red-necked Grebes
For a month, I observed this dedicated pair, from late May when their nest cradled four waiting eggs, to late June when their family of six was complete. This photo was taken on June 19th after two of the eggs had hatched. One of my favorite captures from the time I spent with them.
Grizzly Bear
A trip to West Glacier never disappoints! While part of this visit was spent introducing Most Trout Don't Read to gift shops, bookstores, and fly shops in the Whitefish/Kalispell area, we made sure to take a day for adventure. A drive to Polebridge was the highlight, where we spotted this magnificent grizzly bear in an open field. The light was just right, showcasing the golden hues in its fur. It was one of those perfect "Goldilock Moments" where I could observe and photograph the bear from a safe distance, truly capturing its essence.
By the way, if you ever find yourself in Polebridge, don't miss the huckleberry bear claws at the Polebridge Mercantile—they're a must-try! ( https://polebridgemerc.com/bakery-mercantile/ )
Raccoon
Who could resist this adorable face? A group of young raccoons made a surprise appearance one evening while I was observing the Red-necked Grebe nest.
White-tailed Deer
Baby animals are always at the top of my list each year. I spend countless hours searching for those precious moments as the young ones begin to appear. One memorable trip to Three Forks, in search of sandhill crane colts and burrowing owl hatchlings, brought me to this tender scene: a sweet fawn nestled beside its clearly exhausted mother. Moments like these make every second of the hunt worthwhile.
Gray Partridge
Spotting a gray partridge in the wild is no small feat. These ground-dwelling birds blend seamlessly with their surroundings, thanks to their mottled plumage that mirrors the colors of fields and brush. Often, you don’t see them until it’s too late—flushed from their hiding spot with a sudden burst of movement and feathers. My fast reflexes to stop the car and grab my camera enabled me to capture this ones picture before it vanished back into the landscape.
Red Fox
Another year, another lively litter near a known fox den! This time, I spent hours observing the kits in action. Like all youngsters, they were bursting with energy, engaging in playful tussles. This one, however, stood apart—a watchful little soul, more serious than its rowdy siblings.
As we close out 2024 and look ahead to 2025, I’m filled with gratitude for a great year, even though I didn’t spend as much time in the field as I’d hoped. The coming year is all about refocusing—dedicating more time to capturing those precious, fleeting moments with our incredible wildlife. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Here’s to a year of new adventures, unforgettable encounters, and the beauty of the wild!
Lea Frye - Wildlife Photographer
www.leaf-images.com | Lea Frye, Wildlife Photographer | Helena, MT
Wild Animals / Wild Landscapes