Feb 20 - Gravel Pit to Beacon Hill (Antelope Island)

 A partly sunny day with temps in the mid-50s. Heading up to Antelope Island to get a quick hike in before the winds pick-up before a weak storm arrives later this evening.

I arrive on the causeway just after 8am. It's sunny but clouds are rolling in and they are in fact at the north end of the island.

I arrive on the island and head south towards the Ranch as the plan is to hike the Sentry Trail - bison permitting.

There are several bison among the rocks; they are very hard to see.

I don't see another critter until I reach the White Rock area where that herd of bison is still hanging out.

But surprise, there's a small herd of Pronghorn just south of them and up the slopes a bit. They are just laying there observing the sunrise.

It's quiet the rest of the way to the Ranch and wouldn't you know it, there's bison just south of the Ranch's fence line and they are way too close to the road. Additionally, there a herd farther south of the Sentry Trail. They would not be an issue if I could reach the trailhead - the road is still closed. But scarier, are the scattered bison in between. Definitely not hiking the Sentry Trail today :(.

I decide to park and look for Owls but 1st I want to get closer to those bison along the fence. I cut through the picnic area to that fence. I have 2 fences between me and the bison.

I continue on to the forested area looking up for owls - no luck.

I head to the Barn and before I even walk in, there's an Owl looking down at me. (Yea!)

I step inside and look up behind me and find the mate sitting on the rafters at the edge of the barn. Good sign we'll have babies this year!!

Well it's back to my car and north to the Gravel Pit. 

I see a lone Pronghorn; bet he's the same one I saw the other day in basically the same area.

I reach the Gravel Pit, gear up and start up the trail.

I wonder if I'll see my friend the Pronghorn for the 3rd time near the Beacon Hill Trail. Hmm

When I get out of the Gravel Pit, I see 4-5 bison in the distance. I'll be walking toward but they are of no concern.

Quiet walk and when I reach that last stretch before Beacon Hill, I see my friend again! And hey, he has a friend today - a tagged Pronghorn.

They are both laying down and do not freak as I near and walk past them.

Next stop Beacon Hill with another gorgeous view today!!

I stop for a quick break and then start making my way back.

On my return, my friend is now standing (the other is still laying). Again, I pass with them moving. Still think it's weird but I like it!

I also see a pink flower (Red Stork....) -- it's another sign of Spring. 

It's too early but I saw a White butterfly on my walk around Sugarhouse Park yesterday. Couldn't tell if it was a Cabbage or Checkered White. 

Good day!

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