Lift off

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Summer, 2009 ~

They spook quite easily, so I was delighted to approach the Great Blue Heron without disturbing it. Paddle folded and my camera in hand, I drifted along the shore within just a few yards of the great fowl… until he moved toward lift-off.
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It is amazing how such a tremendous bird can lift itself from the shore with only a single flap of his wings… and move several feet in a manner that seems effortless.

I leaned back in my kayak, smiling, and reflecting on the fascinating sight I had just enjoyed.

Just then, the Heron circled around to do the same, flying immediately overhead before disappearing over the trees.

© 2009 - 2011 Mike Anderson, St. Michael, MN. All rights reserved.

Reeds of red

Autumn, 2009 ~

Both the land and water are wonderful artists; when they collaborate, though, their works can be amazing.  This day, I came across a large patch of willow branches that had been bleached of their color by the receding water... and Mother Nature adds yet another fine work to her gallery.

© 2009 – 2011, Mike Anderson. All rights reserved.

Turtle-saurus

Summer, 2009 ~

In this part of the country, I'm told a snapping turtle can grow to thirty or forty pounds.  This one was sunning himself on a rock in the middle of the Crow River.  It looked as if he was outgrowing even his impressively large shell.  That, along with his long tail and threatening claws, made it easy to imagine that his lineage could be traced directly to the age of dinosaurs. 

© 2009 – 2011, Mike Anderson. All rights reserved.

Final approach

Late winter, 2011 ~

In mid-flight, Trumpeter Swans soar with grace.  But their landings appear less choreographed and more... well, clumsy.

After circling their landing pad several times to make sure no predators are waiting nearby, they glide toward the water that will serve as their runway. Their wings are fully extended, so as to create the maximum surface area; the wind resistance will serve to place the giant bird gently into the water.

If you look closely (click to enlarge), you'll notice that this Swan's tail feathers actually touch before its webbed feet... as if to feel the surface just before impact, and sense the precise moment to tuck into a floating position.

© 2011 Mike Anderson, St. Michael, MN. All rights reserved.