Kip’s Comments - September 20, 2023

3-Miles or 103-Miles

As someone who is always watching for nature or outdoor photography opportunities, it is very easy to get into the “grass is greener” mindset. By that I mean I could believe that to see things I need to travel. Yes, for some subjects that would be correct. But, for wildlife I am blessed to have an ever-changing variety to enjoy just 3-miles away.

This morning I put my canoe on the water on the Wapsipinicon River at Frederika and enjoyed numerous wildlife encounters. Most remarkable was a great blue heron that allowed me to pass within 20-yards multiple times. I wonder if this was the same great blue heron that allowed me to watch it subdue and eat a several pound sucker a couple of days ago. Is it possible the bird recognizes me and knows I am not a threat? It would have been interesting to have someone else approach it and watch its reaction.

Great Blue Heron on Wapsipinicon River - Image 844924

Great Blue Heron on Wapsipinicon River - Image 844802

A big surprise came when I began paddling. First I spotted a broad-winged hawk in a tree and not far away was a great horned owl. Neither species is one you see at close range often (or for very long). I felt bad for the owl. About 10-minutes after I left it a mob of crows found it and harassed the dickens out of it.

Broad-winged Hawk Over Wapsipinicon River - Image 844734

Great Horned Owl Over Wapsipinicon River - Image 844998

Great Horned Owl Over Wapsipinicon River - Image 845023

Great Horned Owl Over Wapsipinicon River - Image 845089

Other bird species observed were a flicker (one of many), a green heron, and numerous turkey vultures.

Flicker Along Wapsipinicon River - Image 844738

Green Heron on Wapsipinicon River - Image 845124

Turkey Vulture Along Wapsipinicon River - Image 845202 (Young)

Turkey Vulture Along Wapsipinicon River - Image 845221

From a scenic viewpoint, there is a short stretch of the river that is simply stunning right now. The appearance of autumn colors has come too soon, but I sure do enjoy what I am seeing.