Cozy Bandits

[Loupey]

I stare obsessively at every hole in every tree in hopes of seeing something. This hole was very far and very high (about 25' up) and because it was heavily over-cast that day, I really couldn't see inside the hole very well. But I thought I saw something move so I waited around to see what might come out...

[WesternGuy]

Loupey, great images!! I haven't seen a raccoon in years. When I lived in a small city in Eastern Canada (years ago), they used to come up from the river at night and raid the garbage cans. I have yet to see one on the prairies - don't even know if they live here - maybe along some of the rivers.

Cheers,

WesternGuy

[Singletracklovr]

The facial expression of the first shot is just too cute.
What a great find.
Did you use a fill flash to get the light reflection in the eyes?

[AgingEyes]

Oh no, now you're telling me besides looking up and down to find birds, I have to check every hole now :cryin: :cryin:

[Martin Brazil]

Really great shots Loupey, the pattern of the tree bark and the shape of the hole would have made a good picture on their own but with the racoon looking out its just perfect. For me the first one is one of the most enjoyable pictures I have seen in a long time. Congratulations, definitely one to frame.

[AmberC]

LOL That is so cute!!!

[scott-devon]

Beautiful shots, that first one is perfect.

[Cathathome]

Priceless! Because my screen is small, I could only see the top part of the image and had to scroll down to see what you found - nice surprise!

Cheers,

[Loupey]

Thanks, everyone - appreciate your comments.

...Did you use a fill flash to get the light reflection in the eyes?

No flash. The reflection is of the field of snow all around. Because of the backlighting and cavity shadow, these shots were pushed quite hard - shot overexposed about a stop to keep the noise in the shadow to a minimum as I knew I'd have to pull out every detail possible during post processing. The reflection intensified during these two steps.

[mn shutterbug]

I'd say, it was well worth the wait.

[slayer7124]

Haha, I love these shots. Great captures!

[paulnj]

What a cool find Loupey

[Pink Dragonfly]

Oh Loupey, they are SOOO cute Great tree too...I'm glad you waited!!!

Mette

[Loupey]

Thanks, guys!

Now that I know the location, I'll check regularly to see if I can get some different versions.

[susaan]

Patience rewarded with wonderful shots .
-I take it as a lesson,as much too hurried in my choice of photo subjects.