At the Phoenix Zoo, this wonderful Jaguar was lounging on a tree platform, not really sleeping but not doing much other than stretching, then alternately opening and closing his eyes.
Suddenly, he sensed something. Maybe it was a wagon with food. Maybe it was the peacock landing on a nearby cage. He was alert and on his feet. A handful of spectators 15 to 20 feet away watched, transfixed. He gave us a cursory look, but then looked beyond us into the distance. More people arrived. Many were talking loudly as they approached, but all became silent as we watched the great cat. I happily snapped off 5-10 pictures, and then I too just stood and watched in silence and awe.
It didn't last long, maybe 5 minutes. I felt so fortunate to have experienced the moment with the cat. I will remember that moment every time I look at this picture. Happy Thanksgiving!