Today's time out on the water came as a bit of a surprise for when I awoke, skies were cloudy, temperatures were in the mid 20's, and a breeze looked to be building. The weather forecast didn't hold much promise, so the morning was spent indoors with expectations of an afternoon doing the same. Then a little after noon skies began to brighten and by 1pm the die was cast for an impromptu trash patrol on the Sudbury River. These days, winter protocols are in effect and thus require the use of a wetsuit, mukluks, pogies, an Elmer Fudd hat, and a full set of dry clothes onboard, just in case.
By 2 pm I was heading upriver and stopping to call at a friend's lodge...
Apparently, he was sleeping-in. On the other side of Route 2, I came upon some of his recent work and understood his need for a good day's sleep...
When Fairhaven Ridge came into view (opening photo), I saw this slender, long-tailed hawk soaking-up the afternoon sunshine...
At Fairhaven Bay another boat with 2 fishermen was seen and approaching Brooke Island a belted kingfisher took flight from a low-hanging branch. The island made a good spot to go ashore and stretch my legs before beginning the trip back downriver.
I was surprised by the number of blue herons I saw remaining in the area. I counted at least 8 that have delayed their trip south. Perhaps the new air travel security measures have them holding back.
Less surprising were the large numbers of mallards on the river today Also 3 deer were seen near Clamshell Bank.
Trash today was on the light side. Only 11 pieces. Recyclable containers amounted to 6 with the rest being miscellaneous rubbish...
My YTD total stands at 6217. Speaking of counting things, I usually start my annual countdown to spring on December 11th when 100 days remain. However, with this year's early onset of wintry weather, I've decided to start today. There are 106 days until spring 2011 arrives and I'm counting every last one of them. It's sort of like "winter, how I hate thee, let me count the ways".
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