That was a quick April. Time’s flying by.
Monday morning, as I mentioned yesterday, I walked part of the Norwottuck Rail Trail here in Amherst. I had visions of this view in my head but with all the low-lying fog we were experiencing and, of course, spring greens rather than summer. But it was not happening. Thick fog and a stream so swollen it could have been called Hop Brook Lake just didn’t add up to eye appeal. So I headed back with the idea of going to Quabbin for what you saw yesterday.
As I walked to the parking area the sun was just hitting the tree tops and lighting up the fog with a nice warmth which was welcomed since we had fallen below freezing.
Still thinking of Quabbin, I resumed my hike back towards the car when I saw this beaver lodge with the fog behind it. Then I noticed what at first appeared to be a curved stick among the tangle on top of the lodge but a few more steps revealed a Canada Goose sitting upon what I think was its nest.
I didn’t have the 300 with me, so framed the whole lodge with the foggy background using the 70-200. I think I’d prefer this composition over a closer look anyway.
Stephen Gingold Nature Photography Blog 
It’s never occurred to me that a beaver lodge could do double duty, but of course I have no experience at all with beaver lodges. I’d say that’s one smart goose, as long as beavers don’t have a taste for goose eggs. It’s a beautiful image; sometimes, sepia is unbeatable.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Especially if it is naturally occurring sepia. The goose was quite comfortable there as the distance between the lodge and pond edge is a safe one. No hunting here so she doesn’t have to worry about that. Most of the beaver lodges I’ve seen don’t have nesting birds but a few every once in a while seem a hospitable spot and this one doesn’t seem in need of reinforcement.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’d say that went rather well after all. First is ethereal. Second is instructive.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Michael. As I am sure you’ve experienced, when plans don’t go as expected other opportunities present themselves and the results are often well worth the time.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That first picture, ethereal and moody, makes me wish I’d been there to experience the place.
LikeLiked by 1 person
One rail trail walker stopped and bemoaned for me the fog. I laughed and told him that was what I was photographing. It was so relaxing and at the same time exciting to see the sun rise into the tree tops.
LikeLike
These do convey warmth, a nice pale coppery look to them.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The sun did help very much remove the chill air. The fog hung on for quite while as I hiked back to the car. A Coppertone sunrise.
LikeLiked by 1 person
These are gorgeous! The goose nest on the beaver lodge – funny! And imagine, there are probably other creatures nesting there too, little insects, amphibians maybe, i don’t know….I love the colors and soft detail in that second image. And the first one is just wonderful, with that amazing light. Beautiful!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree with you that there most likely are other creatures taking advantage of the beaver’s hard work. I wasn’t sure the light would do this when I started my hike. The sky seemed pretty socked in but the strength of the rising sun warmed things up wonderfully. It was lovely to be there and swamps get too much bed rep. 🙂
Thanks, Lynn.
LikeLiked by 1 person