I’m Back!

Posted on February 2, 2024 by admin

If you know me, you know 2023 was quite a year. I had breast cancer, a bilateral mastectomy, and quite a few post-surgery complications. The good news is, I am cancer-free! I haven’t been out in the wild spaces much, but I am getting my strength back and hopeful I will be out more often. I was delighted to see an old coyote friend at the wetlands this morning. One of the nice things about Kansas is we may have some brutal cold, but it’s often followed by weather like this. It was in the 50s this morning. Great weather for a walk, and a lovely sunrise.

Harriers, Swans, and Muskrats

Posted on January 7, 2023 by admin

I’m finally getting out a bit more and enjoying the new camera! The Canon EOS R is so light and easy to handle. I’m still getting used to the differences between the EOS R and the 5D I used for so long, but I am loving it! The EOS R is excellent for these dark, foggy mornings. Considering just how dark it was on this morning, I am very pleased with these results.

Spring, Glorious Spring

Posted on April 20, 2019 by admin

I am loving the crisp mornings we’ve had the last few days. The tree swallows are here in abundance now; pied-billed grebes are popping up in all the ponds and marshes; the wood ducks are in the owl box; herons are dancing around everywhere. The moon is full and glorious.

Male wood duck on top of owl box. Female is looking out from inside.

Fall at the Wetlands

Posted on November 10, 2017 by admin

As the temperature drops, I get out more. I love the crisp weather and having a walk to myself. There is still time to see migrating birds and the residents who will stick around as long as the water is not frozen. Click on pictures to enlarge.

Wetlands Residents

Posted on November 20, 2016 by admin

It is that time of year again when I have trouble staying at my desk and getting my work done. The number of migrants at the Wakarusa Wetlands has been astounding. And, of course, the year-round residents like the deer and bald eagles are always a pleasure to see. Click on pictures to enlarge.

The wetlands is in the duck and the duck is in the wetlands

Posted on February 21, 2013 by admin

On this morning of thunder-snow, I am delighted to post the link to my photo essay, “The Wetlands Is in the Duck and the Duck Is in the Wetlands” at Our Hen House. I am thrilled that they wanted to share this story and amazed by the wonderful work they do. Thank you!

Egrets and herons arrive in abundance

Posted on April 11, 2012 by admin

Yesterday, I had a wonderful morning walking the Wakarusa Wetlands and was happy to see an egret had arrived. I decided with all this beautiful weather, this week, I work nights. I went back this morning and as I was coming down the path, seven egrets and five great blue herons came sailing in. It was magical! I was also privileged to see a host of little blue herons, green herons, blue and green-winged teal, grebes, and even a white-faced ibis. Click on pictures to enlarge.

: © Chris Taylor

There must be something really good down there

Posted on March 30, 2012 by admin

I had a great walk in the Wakarusa Wetlands this morning. Not a whole lot of new arrivals, but we are still very early in the migration time. Click on pictures to enlarge.

A foggy morning

Posted on March 23, 2012 by admin

After all this rain of late, the Wakarusa Wetlands are indeed wet, and muddy. Some of my favorite walks have been on these chilly spring mornings. Yesterday, it was so foggy when I got there I could not see very far in front of me, so I moved a bit more slowly to make sure I did not surprise any deer or coyotes. Really, I am sure they know I am coming long before I see them, so it is me that gets the surprise. The fog is mysterious, a little scary, and beautiful. Click on pictures to enlarge.

Once the fog cleared, the sun provided some amazing light. A mink came swimming by and a harrier swooped along the top of the tall grass.

I could not resist stopping by for a few minutes again this morning. Coots were exploring, the Eastern phoebe was guarding the gate, and the turtles were sunning.

Spring is coming

Posted on March 1, 2012 by admin

It is always a good day to take a walk in the Wakarusa Wetlands. Click on pictures to enlarge.

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