Himalayan friends

Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus)

Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, Uttarakhand, India

My goal was to get a glimpse of this high altitude species, and on my first morning I did see a lone adult male quite near. I did get a decent image and was content with that as a first encounter.

Then one morning I came across a group grazing in the early morning sunlight. It must have been at least 20 individuals! I was flabbergasted and elated to be able to see such a large group going about their early morning activities so close to the road.

The oldest individuals seemed most at ease in the background and only occasionally coming in clear view near the road. The younger ones were bolder, I guess that applies to many a species, and ventured closest to the road and away from the trees.

It was a lot of movement - sometimes play fights, other times just standing and observing their land or simply grazing.

I could not in my wildest dreams have wished for such a beautiful encounter, and am so grateful for all the incredible moments they shared with me.
Read less