A desert peak we didn't make

[tomcat_rc]

what snowy didn't tell you was earlier in hike she was purposely annying this critter or on one his frineds when we stopped for a break on the way up. so by the time we were headed down - he had put out the word to be on the lookout. I think they call that "karma" or something. that is why they gave me the free pass.

as a side note: when this happened I was a minute or two ahead trying to make good time out since dark was rapidly approaching. I was listening to a song on I-pod so didn't hear her at first. By the time I heard her and waited - well that had to be the funniest sight. she looked like grandma moses hobbling down the trail all limping and hunched over. I had no idea what was wrong - thought maybe she threw a hip out or something. who would have guessed stung in one side cheek and the opposite side leg. it took me a minute to get my composure back in line before taking on job as medic. good thing it wasn't a rattler bite - don't remember any more if you suck out poison, cut big red "X's" in the wound or just immobilize.

ok - now that we all have had our fun - let's get out and enjoy some turkey and Thanksgiving

[Snow Nymph]

Trekker

"A dying yellowjacket releases an alarm pheromone, or smell, that alerts other wasps. In less than 15 seconds, yellowjackets within a 15-foot radius will come to the victim's aid."

and

"If you get stung, get moving! When yellowjackets sting they may leave behind a small amount of chemical marker that identifies you as an enemy of the nest. For this reason you should quickly leave the area after being stung before other wasps have a chance to swarm."

and

"Yellowjackets that are foraging for food will usually not sting unless physically threatened, such as being struck or caught in a tight place. But if they feel their nest is in danger, they will vigorously defend it. All wasps defend their colonies, but some yellowjackets are more sensitive to nest disturbance and more aggressive in their defense. Disturbing a yellowjacket nest can result in multiple stings. This can occur when someone accidentally steps on an underground nest opening or disturbs a nest in a shrub or building. Sometimes merely coming near a nest, especially if it has been disturbed previously, can provoke an attack."



SOOOO, Tom probably disturbed the nest and by the time I came by they got me. I'm lucky the whole colony didn't come after me!

It feels better, just a little itching now.