Almaden Park Lake is a small body of water surrounded by houses and busy roads, but it's a safe santuary for a wide variety of birds, and a magnet for locals. It's just 2 miles from my door, and offers endless opportunities for photography. Today was no exception. It was a beautiful Spring-like day in northern California, and this Mallard took full advantage by hunting and dozing in the soft greenery just emerging. {} The mated pairs of Canada geese were enjoying the day as well... View attachment 6060 ... until this beast showed up and scared them to deeper water. View attachment 6061 The doggie's owner showed up and all was well again. What could be more peaceful than old folks fishing... View attachment 6062 ... and Little kids, thrilled by the wildlife, playing by the lake? View attachment 6063 Oops, I underestimated that little kid. First he chased the ducks... View attachment 6064 ... and then he went after the big game! Geese are pretty tough, and I'm not sure I'd try that myself. View attachment 6065 But eventually, he wore himself out, with no damage to the birds, and I was left to explore in quiet. And after looking for a while, I discovered where my favorite avian subjects were hanging out. Fishing was pretty good... View attachment 6066 and I even managed to sneak close enough to get some distant but decent shots. View attachment 6067 View attachment 6068 The Snowy Egrets have returned! Spring can't be far away .
Very nice series Frank. Makes me want to get the cam and head back down to the pond.... :wink: Regards, Frank
Apparently, Spring has already been spotted in the next town down the road: it should be over by you tomorrow... unless it was there yesterday already! https://www.nikoncafe.com//forums/viewtopic.php?t=1044&highlight= :lol:
Nice shots Frank!! I especially like the ones of the boy chasing the duck and goose. I am sure we are all guilty of that when we were his age. The first shot looks like that mallard is smiling at you!!!
