23 November 2020

 eBird data:  https://ebird.org/checklist/S76606777

Weather:  8 am 2C, wind  W5,  12m  7C, wind W2

Tide  10 am 3.7 meters, rising.


Despite an ominous forecast of intermittent rain, I set out.  It was chilly but with not much wind, 2 Celsius isn't really that bothersome.  The only discomfort I'm finding is cold and compressed toes in my gumboots.  If I wear warm socks, the boots are just a bit too snug, and tight boots are cold boots, as I learned in my cross-country skiing days.  I think I'll seek out a pair of felt innersoles.  In addition to grocery stores, pharmacies, a post office, and two boozers, there is an excellent shop selling outdoor and work wear very near here.  I'd be ready to bet they sell good boot liners.  Worth a try. 
 
The path by the houses that leads into the Estuary were a-twitter with juncos and siskins.  It's remarkable how noisy a dense patch of blackberries can be.  The path was drier than it's been of late, but the log bridge was slippery.  I made my way across with mortifying caution.  I see people crossing quickly, but somehow (maybe it's the gumboots) I find I have to be slow and careful.  I think part of it is also carrying a camera with a big lens and a set of binoculars.  Or maybe it's age?  Hm...accept the possibility, Liz.  Just try not to fall off the bridge.
 
After the forecast of rain, the morning light and cloud was striking.
 

 

The Arrowsmith massif is accumulating snow as are all the high places along the Island.
 

 Paths were boggy but less flooded than in previous days.  Tide was less high, and the wigeons and mallards further offshore.



A young bald eagle (not yet bald)  sat on the top of a cedar, studying the duck situation.  He let me try all manner of camera settings, then launched himself.
 

 I sat, enjoying the view and drinking coffee as the clouds began to form, then moved on.
 
The river is down a bit from last week.  The salmon run is still on, apparently.  There were three harbour seals  and one sea lion fishing. 
None of them cooperated with photos.   

I made my way back home,  after four hours of exploring, ready for lunch.  Inspired by the salmon fishery, I made myself a fine tuna sandwich.




 
 


 
 
 
 

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