Re: [Paddlewise] Bird watching by kayak

In a message dated 11/21/01 4:06:41 PM, Niilus_at_aol.com writes:

<< It was birding and bird photography (in part) that got me interested in 
kayaks.  I needed a platform to get closer to water birds. >>

That was how we started but the one thing hard about kayaking is that it is 
hard to see much from the level we sit at if it is very far away. I have to 
be almost right on the ducks to KNOW what they are by field marks. I can 
guess from what should be there, how big they are, and so on but on wider 
water it is often just frustrating to get almost close enough. They know even 
if I just glide towards them. I can paddle VERY quietly and slowly but still 
<G>.
    On creeks and such it is MUCH better. I saw my first scarlet tanager from 
the water so I've been scouting every since. There really are a huge number 
of things you won't see any other way. We happened into a young family of 
beaver, mom and 3 kids, on a creek. The kids apparently did have the dive and 
swim down so we got quite a look while Mom tried to look menacing and drive 
us off. We allowed it and moved back far enough for her to go back to the 
kids and lead them away. It was very kool.
    Probably my best kayaking experience could have been from land but it 
wasn't. On my first club trip and saw a mating flight of a pair of bald 
eagles! Now, that is kool! I wouldn't have been there if it wasn't for my 
boat.

Joan
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