Goslings Snuggling With Mom

How adorable is this scene of seven baby Canada Goose goslings gathering beneath their mother's wing for shelter! I was amazed that all seven of them eventually managed to squeeze underneath her, at least for the most part. It was such a sweet moment to witness and one I couldn't stop smiling about.

Before settling down, the goslings had been wandering around and nibbling on grass along the shoreline of Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park, South Dakota. As they rested together on the bank, the calm waters of the lake behind them reflected the surrounding granite rock formations, creating a peaceful backdrop for this heartwarming wildlife scene.

I captured this photograph early in the morning while waiting for sunrise. Moments like these are one of the reasons I love being out before dawn. You never know what unexpected encounters nature has in store, and this tender display of a mother protecting her young became one of my favorite memories from Sylvan Lake in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota and Custer State Park.

This photo was taken by Jennifer White with Timeless Moments Photography. All images are copyrighted Timeless Moments Photography/Jennifer White. All rights reserved.