Spring Processing

Rattlesnake processing season has almost come to an end after weeks in the field. Bryan and crew have captured over a hundred individuals from various den sites. Data has been collected (weighing, measuring, tagging..etc). After processing them they are released back to their home. Studies continue to provide insights about rattlesnakes and their Great Basin environment.

Hami Herpin'

Bryan has been crazy busy the last month with his rattlesnake processing. He's been trekking all over the valley at various den sites. Ava and Isaac and some of their friends have been able to go along with him. Like science and physical education simultaneously haha.
Willow and I joined him in the field one day. It was a beautiful day with isolated thunderstorms. We went to three different locations. First in the high country.... then to the valley floor. It was nice to get out and about! Bryan took some of these photos too.

Photo Credit: Dr. Bryan Hamilton

We stopped for the flowers which were starting to dot the desert. I tried to be observant to what was blooming everywhere we hiked. Some were an obvious invitation....

It was a slightly chilly day up in the high desert. The rattlesnakes were trying to get the heat where they could. They were around, but not moving much. Their priority was sunbathing.

Dr. Bryan Hamilton out doing his thing....... ;)

Here's a baby rattler with just one button :)  Awe

Even the whip snakes who generally have amazing speed were taking their leisurely time with all the cloud cover. They were a lot easier to watch and photograph!

Herpin' on the desert floor was much warmer but the clouds continued to swiftly change above us growing more grey by the minute. Indian paintbrush bloomed bright red. There was much more grass growing in the desert from all the rain.

Sssssssssuccess!

Willow made friends with a whip snake and a ladybug......

#HamiHerpin' 

Country roads...... take me home. A job well done. An adventure enjoyed. A day not wasted.