Park Ranger Finds Massive Nest In Forest, Then He Looks Inside

"Hello?" Brian called out into the dark. His voice carried upward through the pines and faded into the dense timber. Nothing moved. "This is the Park Service!" he shouted, louder this time. "Is there anyone up there?"

For a long moment, there was only the sound of wind. Then, a sharp, heavy rustle echoed from inside the mass above. It was the distinct sound of something shifting its weight across solid wood. Brian froze, his hand dropping instinctively toward his belt. Whatever was inside had heard him.

Instinct told him to back away and wait for daylight, but the thick black smoke reported by the tower meant a potential wildfire risk. He had to know what was up there. Tucking his flashlight into his chest harness, Brian gripped the rough bark of the central pine and began to climb into the dark, pulling himself up foot by foot.