Didn’t get out much this week, but spent one day at Brick Pond and another at Lindsay Parsons. As usual, there were woodies and mergansers, but it wasn’t a productive week. One interesting thing was that I was at brick at first light and I could see something swimming across the pond. It was so dark that I could only see the ‘V’ that the critter made. I assumed it was a Beaver or a Muskrat because they are so plentiful there. Well it swam to shore and I lost interest. But a minute later I saw the animal on a log to my right and I thought “what a funny place for a Beaver.” I got my binoculars up to my face and realized it wasn’t a Beaver it was a Mink!
I had seen one last year here but this was the first time this year. I was afraid he was going to head into the woods away from me so I made a squealing noise with my mouth. Mink are very curious animals and most times they will at least stop and look if you do that. Well this guy (or girl) decided to come and see what was squealing! Meanwhile I’m trying to get the camera setup to take advantage of the possible opportunity.
Close!! maybe 5 yards away…..
Unfortunately, he caught the movement and while he wasn’t scared, he didn’t stick around either. This shot was the only open one he gave me. Not great shots but it was fun for me!!!
And there is an upside to this Mink. Brick Pond is dealing with a huge increase in Muskrats, and they can cause some considerable damage. Fortunately, Mr. Mink enjoys a good meal of Muskrat!!! So lets hope he stays hungry!
And a last shot of Hooded Mergansers…. not a great shot but the rim lighting on the birds gives it a different feel.
Oops, one more. The Beavers were very active that morning so you get a bonus Beaver pic….. :)
This was a big Beaver, probably 30+ pounds!!!
All for now, thanks for looking!!!