On this bright, cool December morning, my grandson and I visited Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, on the Missouri River floodplain. Unfortunately, most of the refuge is closed for duck hunting but we enjoyed our brief circuit along the open roadways.
Sightings included a northern harrier, a bald eagle and a large flock of northern shovelers, among more common winter residents. Crystal-clear air, an invigorating chill and dry roads made our visit especially appealing.
It will be February before the hunters depart but, by then, massive flocks of snow geese, white-fronted geese and American white pelicans will descend on the refuge, heralding the spring waterfowl migration which will last through April. Hopefully, I'll have the opportunity to return to Eagle Bluffs for that annual spectacle.
Sightings included a northern harrier, a bald eagle and a large flock of northern shovelers, among more common winter residents. Crystal-clear air, an invigorating chill and dry roads made our visit especially appealing.
It will be February before the hunters depart but, by then, massive flocks of snow geese, white-fronted geese and American white pelicans will descend on the refuge, heralding the spring waterfowl migration which will last through April. Hopefully, I'll have the opportunity to return to Eagle Bluffs for that annual spectacle.
