There is such an incredible difference between the perspective from land... and the water. On Memorial Day Weekend, we enjoyed a leisurely and informative boat ride with the North and South River Watershed Association. Although the weather was looking slightly questionable all week, the sun was out for our entire 2 hour cruise along the river. The NSRWA puts on one of the most distinct and unique event calendars that we've seen. Don't get us wrong - we love a good trail walk or plant sale... but the NSRWA events are really something special. Archeological Tour of the River? Walk to an 300+ year old damn? All prior events!
In recent years the NSRWA bought a pontoon boat to really take their members from the banks of the river right into the habitat. Our tour was led by Sally Avery. Sally is a very knowledgable birder and was able to answer every single question that was asked. How often can you say that is the case? Fun facts we learned:
- Canada geese are not named after Canada but rather a guy actually named Canada
- the North River area is one of the most popular (maybe the most?) nesting grounds for Marsh Wren
- how to distinguish between eagles, hawks, and other big birds when they are flying by the wing shapes
While the high moon tide prevented us from going far up river, our captain gently guided us from Roht Marine up to the Union Street Bridge. The crazy high tide almost prevented me noticing the distinct Nelson Forest along the marsh. Due to the super high water, it was right at the water's edge... as opposed to being 10-15 feet from the shore. After we checked out the purple martin colonies at Damon Point and then the shore birds at the Spit. I wasn't keeping close track of the birds but Sally said we probably saw 25 different varieties!
