Meeting at First Light

 

It came as a big surprise to find the American White Pelicans arriving at Bear River MBR a week earlier than expected this year. The Double-crested Cormorants, too, have already returned to their summer home, as if the season could not wait any longer.

Generally, life is good.

The Moment After Triumph

Perhaps this story begins just after the mating was over. Success was obvious. The male Canada Goose spread his wings wide, as if celebrating the moment.

The male Canada Goose looked magnificent—strong, proud, and unmistakably happy.

Mating almost always happens on the water.

The female lowers her body slightly, and the male climbs onto her back while balancing with his wings.

This is post-copulation moment. 

The male Canada goose opened his beak and stretched neck calling loudly. After mating, males often give a strong series of honks.  He is announcing the successful mating and warning nearby geese to keep their distance.

Generally, life is good.

Beneath the Wing - II

 

A young male Muscovy duck folded into himself, emerald and violet feathers layered like scales of polished stone. Only one eye remained visible — rimmed in coral, watchful even in stillness.

Generally, life is good.

Still Life #4

 Generally, life is good.