On my last trip up to Bear River MBR, I stopped to take a video on the auto tour loop, and a Great Blue Heron surprised me by flying into view over the river.

When viewing the video, you will hear me pause for a second or two. That is because I was trying to look over my camera at the second bird that flew in, which turned out to be a Ring-billed Gull.

I love the wide-open views at the refuge, where I can see the river, marsh, and mountains, no matter what time of the year it is. The refuge provides me with peace, quiet, and a deep connection to nature.

All of the birds I saw from the auto tour loop were very skittish and didn’t allow me to get close enough for high-quality images. Even the Great Blue Herons I saw took off before I could get photos. But the heron flying in my video reminded me of another heron I found on the Bear River two years ago today.

Riverbank Great Blue Heron adult, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahRiverbank Great Blue Heron adult – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 640, -0,3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

That February morning it was cold and the heron seemed to be basking in the warmth of the sun. The heron turned their head but made no other movements while I had them in my viewfinder.

Great Blue Herons are early nesters here in northern Utah. They have already started nest-building at the rookery at Farmington Bay WMA. I’m sure the herons at Bear River MBR aren’t too far behind.

I can’t wait to get back to the refuge again, some Sandhill Cranes have arrived up there and I am longing to hear their calls.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Great Blue Heron photos plus facts and information about this species.