Resiliency in Nature

Nature is resilient - that's one great hope for the future. Case-in-point: Eagle Marsh. Just a couple of years ago this 700 acre nature preserve was drained cropland. Now look at it (see the ducks flying in in the top of the pic!):


A Belted Kingfisher on the hunt:


A Redhead duck enjoying his rightful refuge:


Canada Geese, Mallards and Pintails:


Various waterfowl, shallow open water and wetland plants reign here:


As we walked, observed and enjoyed the company of a good friend Paul McAfee, we were all filled with appreciation for this place and the roles we all (and so very many others) played in its renewed existence as a natural area. Seemingly on cue, a flock of Sandhill Cranes flew over - a quite suitable symbol of the importance of conservation and ecological restoration! (Later, when Jennifer and I returned home, another flock of Sandhill Cranes landed at Arrowhead Marsh just behind our house):

The waning hours of sunlight at Eagle Marsh:


We are grateful for the resiliency of nature, the tenacity of the conservation community and the friendship of great folks like Paul. Check out Paul's incredible nature photography here and some of his most recent world class pics here. Hold onto your mouse, these newest picks will knock you off your seat!