Radio-collared red fox

A closer look at this fox showed a research collar around its neck — a reminder that a lot of the wildlife in a well-studied park like this one is part of an ongoing tracking effort, even when it looks completely wild in the moment. She held still and alert at the edge of the brush just long enough for a clean, direct look.

Why it matters

Long-term collar studies on Grand Teton’s fox and coyote populations have given researchers a rare, detailed picture of how these species compete for territory and resources, particularly as wolves have returned to the ecosystem over the past few decades.

Getting the shot

Spring green brush and fresh grass made for a soft, uncluttered backdrop. I focused tight on the eyes and let the collar stay visible rather than cropping it out — it’s part of the honest story of this particular fox.