The Scenery at Mud Lake

[Sailorstu]

Just outside Ottawa we have a marvelous wildlife and bird pond called Mud Lake, part of the Britannia Conservation Area (BCA). For my first ever visit to this location, yesterday, I chose to arrive at 7 am hoping to have the place to myself. Enclosed are but four of my photos from what turned out to be a stunning morning.

Several variants of the Common Long Necked Owl Stalker.


The poor Eastern Screech Owl trying to sleep despite the dreaded Owl Stalkers!


Two ducks enjoying a day of reflection, happy that poor Mr Screech has drawn all of the attention.

[Shadowman]

Nice series, too bad about the mass of stalkers.

[chauncey]

Stu, I'm liking that last duck the best. But...why no white lenses as they would be superior.

[Manfred M]

I haven't made it out to Mud Lake this year, Stu. It's a short detour on one of my favourite cycling routes downtown, so hopefully I'll make it before it gets too buggy..

A few years ago we ran into a large female snapping turtle that had crossed over the road to lay her eggs. That was even more fun that watching the serious birders.

[Sailorstu]

Thanks John. I didn't realize just how passionate the "birders" are. There was an entire troop there at 7 when I arrived and even more when I departed around 11 am. Not to worry as the trailed property is big enough that with a little effort you are able to seclude yourself with the nature.

[Sailorstu]

Manfred - I was foolish and went in shorts and sneakers. Lots of scratches and bites. I'll be sure to wear some bug juice and long trousers / sleeves next time. It really is a beautiful and interesting site for birds, wildlife, and landscape scenery. I didn't see any snapping turtles but I did stumble upon painted turtles, otter, pileated woodpecker, Baltimore Oriole, Golden Finch etc, etc, etc. I'm not a birder but I do enjoy photographing them and then looking them up on the internet afterwards! Here's my shot of a few turtles sunning themselves. I really like the guy with his legs splayed out behind himself.

[Downrigger]

Nice images, and good story too, Stu. Looks like you could have lots of good times there.

[IzzieK]

All good shots, Stu...In the first image, I immediately noticed the leg of the woman shooter's tripod looks like it was inserted near the pocket of her shorts. In the second the owl almost looks invisible blending to the background. I love the turtles too.

[Aeros]

Nice reflections in the duck shots. Interesting back story as well.