Mountain Lessons

There’s something so special about watching a mother teach her young the ways of survival in the wild.

Every late spring, Stan and I look forward to seeing the mountain goats return to a natural mineral lick high in the Canadian Rockies. It's a place we've visited year after year, and we're always amazed at how these sure-footed animals navigate the steep, rugged terrain.

This particular day, Stan captured a beautiful moment between a mother mountain goat and her kid, standing high above the mineral-rich gorge. We couldn't help but think of all the lessons this little one would learn from its mother, which inspired us to call this image “Mountain Lessons.”

But why do these mountain goats return to this same spot each spring?

After a long winter surviving on limited, nutrient-poor vegetation, mountain goats seek out natural mineral licks to replenish essential minerals, particularly sodium, that can be lacking in their mountain diet. These minerals are especially important in the spring when females are nursing their young and their bodies need additional nutrients.

Over generations, these mineral licks have become important gathering places, with mothers introducing their kids to these valuable sources of nutrition. Getting there isn't always easy, as some licks are found along steep cliffs and exposed slopes. But mountain goats are remarkably adapted to this rugged landscape.

Looking at this image, we see more than a mother and her baby standing on a rocky ledge. We see a little one learning where to find nourishment, how to navigate its mountain home, and how to survive in a world that can be both beautiful and unforgiving.

Nature truly is the greatest teacher. ❤️

And moments like these remind us why we love spending time in the wild, camera in hand, capturing the stories nature has to share.

Have you ever had the opportunity to see mountain goats in the wild? We'd love to hear about your experience!

-Stan Masters 

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