Bear River Migratory Refuge

On Tuesday we took a break from the routine, and after work the family met me in Ogden to travel just a little further north to the Bear River Migratory Refuge. Some of you may have heard about this place if you have read Terry Tempest Williams at all. It does not take long to find out that it is a truly special place.

On the road in, we saw an owl right away.

There were many Avocets poking around.

And if you have sharp eyes, you can even see a beaver, or a muskrat, depending on who you talk to.  Either way, it is not that often you get to see one of those in the wild, is it?

If you look at this one enlarged,  you will see right away why they call these "Pintail" ducks.

We were there late, and just as the sun was setting, they began to fly in by the hundreds.  Who are they,  you ask?

Tundra Swans. Hundreds of them.  The light was really hazy with high clouds, and gave off this blue quality which really made these beautiful white birds pop out as they floated on the water.

There was one bird that looked like a swan, but was totally black.  Any thoughts?  Immature Tundra  Swan, or something else?

Even without the birds, and in bad light, this place is visually breathtaking.

But the coolest part is not the visual.  You have to hear this place to believe it.  There is so much noise, very primordial. It is worth the trip just to roll down your windows and listen.

As the evening darkened, we drove out, only to see these three pelicans, floating absolutely still in the dim light. Meanwhile, on the other side of the road, this family of deer was munching down.  

All in all, I would say that is not a bad after-work activity.  What a great place.