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Whistle Lake, Wildlife
Please be careful when hiking in the Whistle Lake area, it opens to motorcycles on April 1st. There were four motorcycles in the area on this day (03.22.2023). Unfortunately, there are individuals who have no consideration for the rules and their behavior could injure someone. Let alone the damage created by their destructive riding. I am not against the multi-use of the area, just upset by the total disrespect of some individuals. They were loud, fast, off trail and on closed trails to motorcycles.
If you are out hiking in the ACFL and see something, use your phone, snap a pic if safe to do so, and report the problem. Forest Land Manager 360-299-1953
I think one solution that could be beneficial for all is the ACFL Moto Riders get more involved in educating riders on site in the ACFL. Have riders work together to educate others about the rules and common courtesy.
It looks like John Meehan has a great start on finding solutions to mitigate the issues.
Welcome to the 2023 Riding Season
I did find some wildlife late in the day after things calmed down. I have been to this area many times now. I am starting to think of it as the dead zone. I am starting to understand why there is a lack of wildlife.
Hooded Merganser, Female
The Hooded Merganser: A Beautiful and Fascinating Bird
The hooded merganser is a small diving duck that is in several areas in the ACFL. They will remain in the area year-round. It is a beautiful bird with a distinctive black head, white breast, and white crest with edge of black over his head. The male and female hooded mergansers look quite different, with the female having a more colorful plumage with a cinnamon crest over her head.
Hooded Merganser, Pair
Hooded mergansers are monogamous and mate for life. They build their nests in tree cavities, open top of trees, or hollow trees. The female lays 6-12 eggs, which hatch after about 30 days. The chicks will venture out to forage within days of hatching.
Hooded mergansers live in a variety of habitats, including lakes, rivers, and ponds. They are excellent divers and can stay underwater for up to two minutes. They feed on fish, crayfish, crustaceans, and other aquatic insects.
Hooded Merganser, Male
Hooded Merganser play an important role in keeping the entire ecosystem in balance.
Whistle Lake, Anacortes
03.22.2023
All images are © Chris LeBoutillier
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