The Day Was A Bust

Well, I have to say I was disappointed in today. We went out early expecting to get an entire day in of shooting. We brought the canoe so we could head out into the marsh and ponds. When we arrived it was extremely overcast and windy as all get out. We gave it a try though. We made it across the pond and into a small cove but decided to head back in because the wind was starting to pick up more and the clouds got dark.

The canoe trip was ok. Need to work out some kinks but we did good.

We got back in and just spent some time shooting from the shore. But because of the extreme overcast sky most of the reptiles and amphibians were somewhere else and I had no idea where.

Whilst we were shooting the US Fish And Game Enforcement officer showed up. He was a very polite and nice guy. We talked for some time and he asked about the canoe. Turns out we didn't have the proper flotation devices and he warned we could receive a $100 fine. He gave us a break.

He then let us in on the fact that they just opened another refuge about 10 minutes from where we were. So we decided to head out.

When we arrived you could tell they just put the road in. And it wasn't much of a secret place. There is a sign about 8ft long by 4ft. right on the side of the road. We drove through and it was a nice place, but a bit small. Not much happening there. We didn't see any wildlife except some birds. Oh, and one turtle. I decided to just stick with landscape shots myself while Kathy chased birds.

Well, we then decided to have a late lunch and come up with some strategy for where to go after we ate. We decided to go back to Rappahannock NWR on Newland Rd. this is the same place we tried to use the canoe. So we headed back.

We drove in the gate and decided to go extremely slow. As we did we heard some obvious yet strange bird calls. We stopped and turned off the truck. We sat for a long time but could not make out where or how far they were.

We went back down to the swamp but again, nothing. So 10 hours and not a thing. Well, I have to Say nothing for me. I know Kathy got some good shots but not as much as usual.

Next trip is we are heading south or northeast. Won't know till then where we'll go.

I did have a Carnidal get excited about my truck. Thus the picture to the right.