When we drive, we tend to idle along desert tracks in low gear, again looking for anything interesting. When we see a jackrabbit, for example, we stop, set up the tripods for the still and video cameras, and begin the process of seeing whether the rabbit is interested in stardom. In some cases, the rabbit will remain still as we set up and begin the process of moving gradually closer to it. About one out of 20 rabbits will remain still while we continue to approach, first in increments of a few yards, then a few feet at a time, and finally a few inches at a time, each time giving the rabbit time to become accustomed to us at that distance. Using this method, we have on occasion approached to within 4 feet of jackrabbits and cottontails, photographed them in detail and said goodbye to them with the rabbit still undisturbed.
Many variables influence the outcome.
Jackrabbits, for example, are more likely to allow an approach during hot, windless weather. This method, with variations, applies to most small animals. The reader should keep in mind that most potential subjects are going to run, and the only way to know which one is not going to run is to take the time to put it to the approach test. It is frustrating to stop the car, mount the camera or camcorder on its tripod, and have the animal flee when we are still 30 feet away, but these many instances of frustration are more than compensated for when we succeed. When a wild animal in the open desert does repose enough trust in you to allow you to interact with it at close range, it is an experience that you will never forget.