The lift workers used to feed the porcupines, although I heard that the forest service made them stop so as not to depend on humans for food. I really didn't mean to disturb his day and I don't think people should get close to wildlife, but this guy was so friendly and obviously used to being fed by humans. If this had been say, a bear or elk, I definitely would NOT get this close.  At first I was afraid I was getting too close, but I wanted a good picture of his face. He apparently wasn't too scared because he proceeded to try to climb my leg!  If you are interested, I also uploaded a short video to my Mountains Rule blog.

Lisa Wilson is a local Telluride blogger and photographer. You can see more of her work at Mountains Rule & Telluride Daily Photo .