Even though this Least Chipmunk was too close, it was simply too cute to pass by just two days ago when I was in the high country of the Wasatch Mountains.
Least Chipmunk clinging to Curly Dock – Nikon D500, f10, 1/1000, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
When I spotted this Least Chipmunk nibbling on Curly Dock seeds, I knew that if I moved my vehicle, it might scurry away. Aware that the chipmunk could leave my line of sight, I stopped immediately, turned off my Jeep, and began to photograph the adorable fuzzy grin-maker.
My 500mm lens is a fixed prime lens, which means I can’t zoom backwards. For this chipmunk, I wish I would have had a 400mm lens.
But, as I mentioned, this chipmunk was too cute to pass by.
Least Chipmunk nibbling on Curly Dock Close up – Nikon D500, f10, 1/800, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I was happy to have the Least Chipmunk in my viewfinder. Since I wasn’t in Utah for most of the spring and the early part of summer, I haven’t had many chances to photograph chipmunks this year, and fall is now just a little over a month away.
Curly Dock (Rumex crispus) is an introduced perennial plant found across much of North America. Least Chipmunks appear to benefit from eating the seeds of this plant, which some people call an invasive weed.
Least Chipmunk eating Curly Dock seeds – Nikon D500, f13, 1/400, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I considered turning on my Jeep and moving away from the Least Chipmunk so it would be easier for me to have the entire body and tail of the chipmunk in the fame. About that time a man on a noisy, fat-tired bicycle rode past on the dirt road and the chipmunk disappeared from my view.
Despite the man’s untimely intrusion, I had fun photographing the Least Chipmunk, and overall, I am pleased with the photos I took.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Least Chipmunk photos plus facts and information about this species.
Adorable!
I think the first thing I look for in your photos is the detail. These chipmunk shots are a perfect example of the sharp resolution you capture in your shots. The colors, textures and composition of these pics also speak to your incredible eye as a wildlife photographer. And, of course, your commentary always brings new knowledge of your subjects to the table. Thanks Mia.
Adorable!
I didn’t realize how small Least Chipmunks were until I see it on the curly dock. Wow! What a great reason to stop!
VERY, VERY cute. Thank you.
Definitely worth the stop! What a sweetheart! 💜
The chipmunk shots are really adorable!—Jeri