Places
Yellowstone
Ken Burns in his 2009 documentary on the national parks ……they are “America’s best idea.” I agree, and Yellowstone National Park was America’s first “best idea.” Established March 1, 1872, Yellowstone National Park is nearly 3,500 sq. miles of wilderness, primarily in Wyoming, but also in Montana and Idaho. Best known for its thermal geology, including Old Faithful. For me it is the unspoiled wilderness where large mammals still roam the landscape. In winter man is an insignificant visitor to Yellowstone, the quiet and peacefulness are remarkable and must be experienced.
Rio Grande Valley
The Rio Grande Valley, located in South Texas is a sought after birding location with unique tropical and subtropical climate features, along with two major migratory routes—the Central Flyway and the Mississippi Flyway—that slice through the valley, turning it into a vital rest stop for thousands of shorebirds, raptors, and songbirds each spring. The region attracts many unique species of birds not found anywhere else in the U.S.
The “Valley” as it is known to the locals is old Texas, with small towns, sprawling ranches, good food and friendly people.
Machias Seal Island
Located in disputed waters between the Bay of Fundy and the Gulf of Maine, more or less equidistant between Cutler, ME to the southeast and Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick to the southwest. The Lighthouse and island are staffed by Canada and permit one visit per day (weather permitting) from each port during the season. Machias Seal Island is a rocky barren island and a seasonal home to puffins, razorbills, common murres, both common and artic terns, among others.
Iceland - Grimsey Island
Grimsey is a small Icelandic Island, located 25 miles of the north coast of Iceland. The artic circle intersects the island, and the location is marked by a large sphere. In summer, Grimsey is populated by approximately 100 residents and more than 1 million nesting seabirds, including Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, Murres and in 2023 a visiting “Little Auk” a/k/a Dovekie. Words cannot properly describe Grimsey, the birding gem of the artic, a place where nature lives undisturbed by development. Primarily a fishing community, the residents are both proud and protective of their island but welcoming of their visitors. Truly a very special place!
Barnegat Jetty and Lighthouse - New Jersey
Barnegat Jetty stretches from the northern tip of Long Beach Island into the Atlantic Ocean, serving as a vital migration point and habitat for a diverse array of bird species. The rugged structure, composed primarily of weathered rocks and concrete, forms a natural barrier that channels ocean currents and creates ideal conditions for shorebirds, gulls, and terns to rest and forage. Throughout the year, the jetty attracts flocks of migratory birds taking refuge along its length, making it a prime location for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
Kamloops Region of British Columbia - Canada
Lac Le Jeune, nestled near Kamloops in British Columbia, is an enchanting location for photographing Loons and their chicks. The lake’s calm, shallow waters and abundant fish make it a haven for nesting Loons. Early light enhances the loons’ striking black-and-white plumage and red eyes, especially when framed against the dark forested backdrop.
Kamloops is also known for Great Grey Owls, Bald Eagles, Townsend's Warbler and Bald Eagles
