Urban Wildlife Sanctuary

This morning I explored from the seat of my canoe one of my favorite urban wildlife sanctuaries - Big Woods Lake in Cedar Falls. Not only did I see what I would consider “normal” wildlife for the area most times of the year, but I also found a very curious pied-billed grebe that swam along with me (never flew and did not dive under water) and an osprey.

I am guessing that since the area is popular with walkers, bikers, paddlers, and anglers, the wildlife may tolerate a closer approach. Whatever it is, I like the diversity and the close range that I see many species.

Note the young whitetail deer that was not afraid of me. It even took care of a personal itch while I was watching. That showed a real comfort level with me - a guy in a canoe floating by as its backside itched.