Since I live in the foothills of the Smoky Mtns., I'm able to go there frequently and made the trip to Cades Cove the past three weekends. The weather and lighting conditions were different each time.

It was nice and warm two weeks ago when I photographed this young buck, one of only three I saw that day that still had antlers. I saw him again yesterday but of over a hundred deer sighted, he's the only one still sportin' "horns"!!



I've always said that when you walk the streams of the Smokies, there's a picture every step of the way! This spot was no exception. It was only about 30 degrees with an occasional snowflake as a cold front had put a temporary end to the warm Spring weather. D70/18-70DX, 1/2 sec., f18.



This secluded pond is one of my favorite places to sit a spell and enjoy the peace and occasional wildlife. The moss is blooming and all chlorophylled up!!



Three Wood Ducks are making the pond their Summer Home! They don't let me get too close and this was taken from about 50', hiding behind a tree. They are obviously nesting there and I suspect an illicit love triangle! This was shot at ISO 800 to get 1/320th at f4.8 (widest aperture with the 1.7x 17E TC on my D70/70-200VR) in the subdued morning light.



Love is in the air and the human 'wildlife' are not immune, as these two bikers illustrate.



Sure do love my weekly jaunts to the Smokies!

Regards,

Dick:)