Mid-February and a beautiful spring-like day – – – it had all the makings of a fun trip to the Carty Unit in the northern portion of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.
After parking at the trailhead, we hiked over an arched foot bridge above a set of railroad tracks. A cedar plankhouse, built in 2005 as a representative of the 14 plankhouses observed by Lewis & Clark in a nearby Indian village, was soon passed.
This was the beginning of the Oaks to Wetlands Trail, a well-marked path passing several lakes. Eventually the Trail emerged on a butte overlooking much of the area.
As special treats, we saw tundra swans, an egret and many Indian Plum trees in blossom.
Indian Plum
My Favorite Model
Golden-crowned Sparrow
Not a hint of wind
Foot bridge over the railroad tracks
Ducks on their way to join the Swans
A Bewick’s Wren singing its song
Always inspiring John
Thanks Geoff. I always enjoy the little songbirds.
John;
That photo of the ducks is spectacular. Each one’s wings are in a different position, and they look like they were taken off a duck stamp. Great catch!
John DesCamp
1255 NW 9th #516
Portland OR 97209
503-780-7743
jdescamp2@comcast.net
Thanks John. It was an interesting day with few ducks or geese in flight. I’m not sure why.