The Story Behind the Photo

January 2023: Best Animal Moment

by Tim Grayson

 

This long-tailed weasel was photographed near Van Doren's Landing Park, along the Green River Trail in Kent (officially called the Green River Natural Resources Area, or Kent Ponds on ebird). We just crossed the pedestrian bridge over the Green River when my friend spotted the weasel sneaking up behind us. I shot this handheld, leaning against the railing I was using to hide behind when it cautiously peaked around the corner.

While I don't go looking for long-tailed weasels, I occasionally come across them in this area and the Billy Frank, Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge.

Photo was taken in early July, on an overcast day around noon, so the cloud cover diffused the light.

Camera and settings:

Sony SLT-65V

Lens: Cheap plastic Minolta 75-300 mm

ISO 800

Aperture: 5.6

Shutter: 1/1000 second

Anti-shake in camera body: On