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The weather has been changeable as we moved from January into February. The river has had some icing, but then a warm spell brings out ice-free conditions. We occasionally get days in the 40's.
I have been out once or twice hoping the warmer weather means a chance at a fish. I cast about the usual haunts, but no luck.
The shallows are very clear and empty. The life (algae and small fish) have gone, maybe to the deep water. I suppose that is where the bigger fish are hiding - cold and sluggish. . .
There are still mallards about. I see an occasional kingfisher and goose. It seems as though nature as pulled back.
As long as the river is relatively ice-free, I try to get some paddling in. I especially like being on the water as it snows. The world seems to pause.
I paddle along and suddenly see a blue heron flying up the river. Now this was not something I was expecting to see. I wonder what they are eating . . .
I paddle upstream very slowly. Hoping I will come across the blue heron . . .
. . . and then I see it! I move slowly towards it. I snap a few photos (though the autofocus gets confused in the snow)!
I remember the name Mithrandir from J.R.R. Tolkein - The Grey Pilgrim. That is what the blue herons remind me of - stately, lone travelers.
I try to leave the heron alone, but he decides to move on.
Sometimes it is the little things. It was recently warm and I suppose a few bees were active. The quick cold snap must have caught a few out in the cold - I see a few dead bees floating in the water.
I'll be on the water again this winter. I expect nature will have pulled back a little more. I await the day it starts to creep back . . .
