Monday morning I ventured out to Black Bayou after a visit to Planet Fitness. I can tell you I’m not taking any pictures at the gym! I can’t imagine the horror of those selfies! But out in God’s creation I saw many beautiful sights and wanted to share some of them with you.
It was a great blessing to see water in places that have been dry for months. We have had some significant rainfall in Ouachita parish and it shows out at the Bayou. There was even still water in roadside ditches. Not far from where these coots are swimming, you could walk on dry ground a month ago. We have a ways to go to get up to regular levels, but a good start on the way as the Spring rains approach.
Driving down one of the roads I saw two pretty large deer running for their lives and hopping across the road. One was a buck with a nice rack, even if I only saw him for a moment! If they only knew how harmless I was! Of course, by the time I reached the area where they crossed, they were long gone. So, I was extra thankful this little doe was not afraid of allowing me a few photos.
Aside from the blue heron, I was able to photograph this egret that was at a pretty good distance. I liked this picture of the coots because the middle one looks like he is smiling! The bottom two birds are, I think, new for me. Pine warbler (yellow) was not bothered by me at all and I have several photographs of him. This hermit thrush was in a difficult place to see, behind several branches, so I was happy that one of the pictures came out clear.
Turtles were out and enjoying the sun. We have had several overcast and chilly days, but Monday was so clear and beautiful. I enjoyed the peaceful time I had there. One of these, the top right, was out at Moon Lake Road, the others at Black Bayou. I was noticing the green algae growing on the one in the bottom two pictures. It did not seem to bother him.
Like everyone who takes pictures out at Black Bayou, I’m always on the lookout for alligators. I only saw this one floating in the lake. He did not seem very large, but he was pretty long!
Along with higher water, there were other signs of life in this faux Spring (Winter is not over, we know!). The ferns growing on this oak tree near the photo blind was a testimony that the deadness of Winter does not last forever.
Although there was much to enjoy, I did have a unique (to me) experience. While I was on the wildlife pier a train made it’s way through Black Bayou. I cross those tracks every time I visit, and I have even walked down them a little way. I was unaware that the train still passes through. I was also unaware of how close it was to the edge of the lake. Here are a few of the photos I took.My favorite was in the top right … an egret was watching the train too… in between two trees.
Your photographs are fascinating to me and your descriptions of each are even more so. Thanks for letting us share in your journeys.
God’s good creation. Thanks!