Takin in Mist Among Rhododendrons

Soft gray mist rests on the dense rhododendron foliage, filtering the early afternoon light into a diffuse glow. A takin stands centered, its thick brown fur absorbing the moisture of the cool season air. Droplets of rain glisten on the dark green leaves and the animal's coarse hair. Heat haze shimmers gently above the forest floor, distorting the distant tree trunks slightly. The tight framing isolates the subject against a backdrop of blurred red and pink blooms. Water beads roll down the takin's heavy shoulders, merging with the damp earth below. One wet leaf rests against the animal's flank.