The Plunge

Yellowstone National Park
                                                                         
Wildlife displays remarkable adaptations to survive the challenges of winter. Some species migrate to warmer regions, others hibernate until spring, and many adapt to the harsh conditions in unique ways. The red fox, for example, has developed an extraordinary sense of hearing, allowing it to detect the movements of mice and voles several feet beneath the snow. To reach its prey, the fox performs a high, targeted leap—using momentum to break through the snow’s surface. A recent scientific study even found that the fox’s skull is aerodynamically shaped to efficiently shed snow as it dives headfirst into the drifts. Despite these impressive adaptations, a fox’s hunting leap is successful only about 10% of the time—but it's 100% entertaining to watch and photograph. 
 
Edition of 125
 
Composite of 5 photographs taken sequentially