Kalmiopsis Wilderness, lizard using Sierra cup as a tanning bed!

We backpacked into the Kalmiopsis Wilderness in Oregon several years ago. After the first night, we decided to hike around a little bit without our packs to explore the area. Rick left his Sierra cup on a rock after breakfast so that it could dry out while we were away. When we came back, we saw this head sticking out from the edge of the cup. We made a point of making the lizard feel comfortable enough to stay put, while we got our cameras. While we were gone, the sun warmed the metal enough for the lizard to find it appealing for itself, so it had its body presed as flat as possible on the inside of the cup. Rick moved around until the glare from the cup shifted away from the lizard's head, so there would be enough contrast.

Th Kalmiopsis Wilderness is named for a rare memeber of the heath family of plants. It was discovered in the 1930's and is believed to have survived the last Ice Age in this part of Oregon's mountains. The wilderness also has the Chetco River flowing through it, which is used by river rafters and kayakers.

Here's what the lizard looked like from behind. Really trying to soak up the warmth.

Remember, it's not just a photo, it's a story!