Rocky Mountain Rarity

I had other, more arty pix to pick from, but here's today's winner.

When I spied this large, black, jumping animal, at about 20 yards away, I scrambled to get the camera out of the bag.

What is it? A mink? No, minks don't jump. An otter? I was near a creek, but otters aren't known for jumping either. Then what? What is that fox-faced thing with the large black, tufted ears? And why can't I get the camera outta the bag?????

An internet search revealed the truth: an black Abert Squirrel.

Even though it's not a great pic, you can still see the ear tufts and the power in this animal's legs.

So, enjoy: we may never see another one.