OPENING SHOT Careful steps Photo: by Jeffrey J. Soulliere Gear: Nikon D810 Lens: Nikkor 80-400mm Settings: 1/200 sec, f/5.6, ISO 500 I t's not everyday in winter you see a skunk in the snow. This skunk took carefully chosen steps along a dangerous bank with a steep drop off into the Snake River in Grand Teton National Park. With soft snow depths of more than 4 feet, the skunk walked out of a large cluster of winter-dried willows without warning. My immediate response was to move back as slowly as possible while mastering my balance through the depth of the snow. The skunk gave no response to my movements, which allowed me time to concentrate on framing the photographs. The immediate excitement and concern of the encounter was short lived. The skunk appeared to be in deep thought. It was impressive as I watched it stay above the snow, and I was greatly appreciative it didn't attempt to spray me during this encounter. Wyoming Wildlife | 7