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Going
into nature takes a bit of preparation to have the best possible
experience. You may want to do some reading on Kelly's
Slough. It has been my experience that attention to the
following tends to maximize our experience in nature and create
the least intrusion for the creatures who make their homes
there. |
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When
traveling on outdoor excursions particularly at this season,
many folks do not dress warmly enough. Be sure to dress warm.
It can be surprisingly cold, 10-15 degrees cooler than in town,
as we will be open to the wind and the ice has not yet left
the ground. Most people have a less than optimal experience
if they are shivering or need to sit in their cars. |
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Bring
binocs and bird identification guides if you have them. |
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Parking
space at Kelly's Slough is quite limited. We will want to limit
the number of vehicles. As a result, vans are being provided.
If you must take your own vehicle, be sure to car pool. |
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We
will be entering into a very special space in nature. In human
terms, Kelly's Slough is like a busy airport at this season.
We are at the height of the migration season for North American
waterfowl. Many of the birds will have traveled long distances
as they prepare for renewing the cycle of life. We may see Tundra
Swans who wintered on Chesapeake Bay and will nest in the Arctic
Circle, Pintail Ducks who wintered in Texas and will nest from
here to Russia. Most are night migrants. For Canada geese, it
would not be uncommon for them to have traveled up to 400 miles
overnight or Tundra Swans to have traveled 400-600 miles at
a stretch. Just imagine what that would be like. We humans need
to be sensitive to this special place and time for these beautiful
creatures. |
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We
need to be quiet and "compact" in our groups as we
enter this space. The louder we are (with our voices, actions,
cars), the more intrusive we are in nature and the more invisible
nature becomes. I have come to know that this is not respectful
of wildlife, plus it means that they tend to travel far away
from viewing areas. We need to stay as quiet and unobtrusive
as we can to get the most from our stay. |
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Most
of us spend far too little time in nature. Enjoy this special
time and special season... |
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