A day at the lake

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.

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The mated pairs of Canada geese were enjoying the day as well...

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... until this beast showed up and scared them to deeper water.

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The doggie's owner showed up and all was well again. What could be more peaceful than old folks fishing...

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... and Little kids, thrilled by the wildlife, playing by the lake?

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Oops, I underestimated that little kid. First he chased the ducks...

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... and then he went after the big game! Geese are pretty tough, and I'm not sure I'd try that myself.

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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...

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and I even managed to sneak close enough to get some distant but decent shots.

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The Snowy Egrets have returned! Spring can't be far away  .