ACFL South 02.02.2023

Whistle Lake Wildlife

It was another chilly overcast day, and the lake was frozen over in many places. I decided to hike the east side trail to the end where I usually see the Bald Eagles. I could hear them making their calls to one another. I was thinking it could be another wonderful day for photographing the area. 

The Madrona Trees

There are many fantastic Madrona trees in the ACFL, they are an important part of the ecosystem. They supply food and shelter for wildlife, and their roots help to stabilize the soil. Madrona trees are adaptable and can grow in a variety of soils, but they prefer moist, well-drained soil. They are also tolerant of shade, but they will grow better in full sun. There is a variety of wildlife that benefit from the Madrona. In the springtime the bees and hummingbirds use the blossoms. The red berries that start to produce in the fall supply food for Varied Thrushes, Cedar Waxwings, American Robins, Northern Flickers, Squirrels, Deer, to mention a few. Their roots are extremely sensitive to changes and it is important not to damage their root system.

There are many locations around Whistle Lake that a very calming to just sit and view. This time of the year might be cold, but the solitude and the scenery are worth bundling up for. The many different moss that covers the rocks are spectacular with the many variations of green. 

The Hooded Merganser

This male Hooded Merganser was the only bird I had seen on the lake. It had found a spot where the water was not frozen. The reflection was amazing with the ice and calm waters. 

America Bald Eagle

I found the two Eagles in the usual place I had seen them before on the south end of the lake. They were just hanging out in a beautiful tree checking out the scenery. I am not sure, but it could be a pair. They did not take flight so I could get an idea of their size.  

Douglas Squirrel

This Douglas Squirrel was one of many I had seen on all trails this winter. They were highly active running here and there. The ones I could see all had tics stuck somewhere on their heads. Make sure you’re protected when you are out hiking, this year might be a bad one. Do not forget to check the kids for tics!  

Ring-neck Duck

The Ring-neck Ducks are colorful ducks with striking colors when hit exactly right by the sunlight. The vivid purple color on the males head just glows and fantastic shimmering green on its back. The female has beautiful greens and purples also, with a very distinctive body of tones of brown. 

Canada Goose

There were many Canada Geese at the north end of Little Cranberry Lake, close to the parking area. If you love watching them this is a great area for easy access for viewing them. 

I was hoping to see the River Otters from the other day when I was here. They were nowhere in sight but there was evidence of activity at the far end of the lake. It looks like they were having a wonderful time sliding around on the ice. It looked like I had just missed them! 

Whistle Lake, Anacortes

02.08.2023

All images are © Chris LeBoutillier

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