It was just a simple bike trek on a sultry summer day last week along the 8.5 mile paved hike/bike trail that meanders around Kent Lake at Kensington Metropark. High noon is not the time for wildlife encounters, but Mother Nature is full of surprise. She always is if we stay alert to her ways. I noticed movement on a small island just a stone's throw from the edge of the trail and stopped to see what drew my attention. An adult sandhill crane - note the dramatic red crest on the head - was as some would say, "just chilling" in shade of the island. But the day was hot and humid and wild creatures too like comfort. This sandhill crane - a species that is not considered waterfowl or a wading bird - strode slowly into the shallows from his island sanctuary and preened amidst a small flock of ducks. And for the next 15 minutes as I stood in the sweltering sun and felt beads of sweat on my forehead, neck and back, the sandhill 'enjoyed' cool water. Who is the smarter one adpating to the ways of nature and weather? The crane, or I? I think you know the answer.
Glad you seem to always have your camera with you to catch these great shots!
ReplyDeleteTo anonymous: Yes, the camera is almost always with me--sure beats staring down at a cell phone texting screen!
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