Earth Day 2018

We got an early start on Earth Day 2018 by heading out for a wildlife photo excursion around the Winona area by 7:00 am.

We have been anxious to get back up north to photograph spring birds but the weather has not cooperated. There are still traces of snow lying about in shaded areas from last weeks snowstorm, but they will probably melt tomorrow as temperatures are supposed to get near 70 degrees. So, in the meantime we wanted to check out the Winona area to see what was around.

We checked out west Lake Winona and saw some Ducks, Grebes and Gulls. On the west edge of the lake we spotted a Loon close to shore and got some photos. As we were leaving, Pam spotted two Sandhill Cranes standing on the bike path. They appeared quite comfortable as they looked for something to eat. I can only imagine the surprise a runner might have when turning the corner and confronting the large prehistoric looking cranes.

A Loon in the early morning sun on west Lake Winona

Sandhill Cranes on the west Lake Winona bike path.

After our unexpected finds at the Lake we headed across the river to the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. It was a great morning with blue skies and temperatures near 40 degrees. The water was quite high at the entrance road probably caused by the recent snowstorms and subsequent melting.

We found a lot of Ducks, Grebes, Coots, Geese and Eagles. A ton of Robins, a few Blue birds and some Red-Winged Blackbirds. None of the colorful songbirds had arrived no matter how hard we looked. I did get a shot of a Ruby-crowned Kinglet and by some miracle I found myself looking at an owl about 20 feet in front of me. The Owl sat for a couple of photos and then silently left. What a thrill for us a I have been waiting for that opportunity for years.

A Barred Owl checking us out.

We are blessed to have such diverse wildlife in and near Winona. Check it out if you get the chance. You just have to slow down and look.

A squirrel paused while feeding to see what we were up to.

A small Ruby-crowned Kinglet.

A Beaver, I think, swimming about.