N0v 27 - Gravel Pit Trail (Antelope Island)

 Another sunny (snow-less) day with highs in the low 40s. Heading back to Antelope Island again hoping the bison move so I can hike the Sentry Trail.

It's in the high 20s with a light north wind when I arrive just after 8:30.

Again there are no bison, deer, pronghorn behind the Visitor's Center.

In fact, it isn't until I roll up on the rocky hill just before the Frary Peak turn-off is there a critter. As I roll up, I see a bunch of trucks pulled off and several guys with large lens. I look down to the east and see nothing. But I spot a guy directing me to look up the slopes to the west and yep, a lone buck.

I continue along seeing that the Park burnt a splotch of Phagmyties (an invasive grass). Great for invasive control but the downside is that the deer like hanging out in those grasses. 

At the little pull out, I spot a Porcupine (1st one of the Fall/Winter). 

I park and walk over hoping he is active but no such luck.

I continue along and it's not until I'm not far from the Ranch, I see my first bison herd. Pretty good size but not super huge.

I reach the Ranch and decide to look for owls. Unfortunately, the gates are all still closed. So back in my car, I head to Sentry Trail as it appears the bison have moved on (yea)!

I park, gear up and start up the trail. Then I spot 3 small herds. One just south of the trail (passing the bison < 40 yards), 

one far south of the trail 1/2 way up the mountains, and one way high and away from the trail (I think). 

I continue on and for a while before I decide I'm not feeling like passing those bison - again I'm not sure why but I head back to my car and drive towards the Gravel Pit.

On the way north, I pass a Northern Harrier.

I reach the Gravel Pit parking and I'm the only car. As I gear up, a couple of bikers arrive; I'll have some brief company on the trail.

I start on my way.

I find no critters along the way but there are bison down in the White Rock campground (just little black dots).

I decide to head up to Beacon Hill 

and I'm on the final stretch when I scare a good size flock of Chukkars. Some go right and over the edge of the hill and the other go left.

As I near the edge myself (i.e., picnic tables), I can still see a Chukkar right at the edge.

Great views today!!

As I turn to head back, there's a lot of Chukkar chatter that goes between the flock on my left and right. I see the guys to my right 

and watch as they slowly start moving to the left to reunite with the rest of their flock. I stop and watch. Eventually, the right flock gets some confidence and crosses the road and runs to the edge. Pretty cool stuff!

Time to head back to my car. (It's a little cool with the breeze in my face - brrr!)

Good day!