"Photography has become a balm for my soul as I use it to listen to nature's whispers, letting each frame remind me of the peace that exists when I simply slow down and observe."
After days of resting on the couch, I couldn’t resist the pull of nature any longer. So, with some pain meds in my pocket, I set off from Victoria to Nanaimo, BC, hoping to spot salmon, eagles, and those elusive Bufflehead ducks. And let me tell you, I wasn’t disappointed!
The first stop was a quiet estuary where, at first, there wasn’t much action. The rain had painted the landscape in vibrant colors, making even the lichen on a fence look magical. Lichen, which often grows on wood fences, thrives in undisturbed, clean air environments. It's a unique combination of algae and fungi living symbiotically, drawing nutrients from the air, rain, and surrounding surfaces. Beyond adding character to fences and trees, lichen plays an important role in nature – it provides food and shelter for small animals, helps to prevent soil erosion, and contributes to the ecosystem by slowly breaking down wood and rock, enriching the soil. Its presence is a good indicator of air quality, making it a small but mighty contributor to a healthy environment.
High in a tree, I spotted a Northern Flicker perched, basking in what little morning sun there was. Known for its beautifully spotted plumage and striking colors, the Northern Flicker is actually a type of woodpecker, though it often forages on the ground rather than in trees. Flickers dig with their beaks, feeding on ants and beetles, which helps control insect populations and supports the ecosystem. As cavity nesters, they often create nesting holes in dead trees, leaving behind valuable shelter for other species. Seeing one up close, soaking in the sun, was a special moment that highlighted the beauty and importance of these fascinating birds.
Just as I was soaking in the quiet beauty of the estuary, a familiar honking sound reached my ears, the kind I usually associate with geese. Instinctively, I looked up, expecting to see a familiar flock. But to my surprise, I was greeted by the graceful sight of three swans soaring together, their wings moving in perfect harmony. In the fall, swans begin their seasonal migration, traveling in family groups or small flocks to find wintering grounds—a journey that can span hundreds, even thousands, of miles. The elegance of their flight over the landscape felt like a rare gift from nature, a reminder of the unexpected beauty that can fill even the most familiar moments. It was a breathtaking sight I won’t soon forget.
Next, I turned my attention to a group of Common Mergansers. They were incredibly skittish, taking off at the slightest sound, so I had to be extra cautious with my movements. Though they stayed pretty far off, making close-up portraits tricky, I managed to capture shots of them drifting down the river together in small groups.
In the fall, mergansers are especially drawn to rivers, as these provide ample food sources and quieter waters for their migratory stops. Their long, slender beaks are perfectly designed for fishing, helping them to snatch fish right from beneath the surface. With their variety of colors—from rich browns to classic black-and-white plumage—they were a beautiful sight to watch in their natural rhythm along the river’s gentle current.
After watching the mergansers, I was thrilled to spot not just one, but three new duck species: the Common Goldeneye, Barrow’s Goldeneye, and the Greater Scaup! Each one had its own unique charm. I was over the moon, screaming with excitement on the inside, as I'd never seen any of these in person before.
The Goldeneye is a striking duck with a glossy, iridescent green head (in males), set off by a bright yellow eye that gives the species its name. This contrast makes them easy to spot, especially in the colder months when their colors stand out against more muted surroundings. Goldeneyes are agile divers, often plunging underwater to catch small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. They’re also known for their rapid wingbeats, which produce a unique whistling sound in flight—a sure sign of their presence even before they come into view. Their brilliant coloring and swift movements make them a memorable sight along rivers and lakes in the fall and winter months.
Next, the female Barrow’s Goldeneye may not have the striking purple head of the male, but she’s just as captivating in her own way. With a soft chocolate-brown head, contrasting with her bright yellow eyes and a subtle black-and-white body, she has a refined, understated beauty. Females are just as skilled at diving, often disappearing beneath the water to forage for food, including insects, small fish, and crustaceans. Spotting one is always a delight, as they tend to be a bit more elusive, blending seamlessly into their surroundings.
The Greater Scaup was a surprise discovery—a duck I didn’t even know existed! With its wide, flat bill that almost resembles a platypus’, it’s truly unique among waterfowl. The soft, velvety look of its light gray and brown body feathers adds to its charm, giving it a subtle elegance. Males have a glossy greenish head, while females have a rich brown hue with a white patch near the base of their bill.
In the fall, river areas attract these ducks for the food and shelter they provide as they prepare for the colder months. Rivers offer plenty of small fish, aquatic plants, and invertebrates, making them ideal feeding grounds. The calm waters also give these ducks a place to rest as they migrate or settle in for the winter. Seeing these new ducks up close in their natural element was such a thrilling experience—a reminder of the beauty and diversity that fall brings to the river’s edge. Moments like these make every birding adventure unforgettable!
A goal while walking through the estuary was to work on my skills capturing birds in flight. Adjusting the shutter speed to freeze different types of motion is challenging, and I’m still working to get it just right. But the process itself was a thrill. There were the common mergansers, who seem to almost dance across the water, running on its surface before taking flight, their wings just grazing the water as they rose. Watching them, I couldn’t help but think, I wish I could move like that!
Common mergansers are remarkable fliers, capable of reaching speeds up to 80 miles per hour during flight. Their streamlined bodies and powerful wingbeats allow them to swiftly cut through the air, making them one of the faster waterfowl species. Watching them take off with such speed and grace, it’s easy to see why they’re so well adapted to both air and water.
One of my favorite shots was of a seagull that looked straight down the barrel of my camera mid-flight, as if to ask, What are you doing? I couldn’t help but chuckle—wild animals have such personality. Seagulls have an impressive wingspan, typically ranging from 4 to 5 feet, depending on the species. This large wingspan, combined with their versatile wing shape, allows them to glide effortlessly on air currents and make quick, agile maneuvers mid-flight. It’s no wonder they’re so graceful and adaptable in the air!
High above, a majestic golden eagle cast a striking silhouette, and nearby, a bald eagle observed it all from a towering perch. Spotting a Golden Eagle is always a thrill – these powerful birds of prey are known for their incredible hunting skills and keen eyesight. Golden Eagles are opportunistic hunters, often preying on mammals like rabbits and ground squirrels, but they’re also drawn to salmon in rivers, especially during spawning season. When salmon make their journey upstream, eagles take advantage of this abundant food source, feeding on both live and deceased fish. This helps maintain the balance in river ecosystems by clearing out weaker or dead fish. Watching a Golden Eagle along a riverbank is like witnessing nature’s cycles in action, with these majestic birds playing a crucial role.
I could hardly believe my luck when I saw salmon resting by the bank. Seeing the salmon resting along the riverbank was both humbling and inspiring. Their colors were already beginning to fade as they reached the end of their life cycle, their job done. These incredible fish have overcome countless obstacles – fighting currents, evading predators, and traveling vast distances – all to complete the journey they’re programmed to make. Now, they wait, either to become food for other wildlife or to naturally return nutrients to the river. I’d never thought much about salmon before, but witnessing their resilience firsthand left me in awe. They are nature’s hard workers, a testament to purpose and perseverance.
I had been hoping so much to see eagles fishing for salmon along the river, so I felt a bit disheartened as I started to drive away from the estuary. Just then, out of the blue, a bald eagle landed far, far away on the top of a tree. I quickly snapped some photos, grateful for the sighting, when another eagle appeared, landing on a nearby tree. Bald eagles are remarkable hunters and opportunistic scavengers, with fish being their preferred food source. Salmon, in particular, provides an ideal meal for these powerful birds, especially during spawning season when salmon gather in rivers in large numbers. Not only are salmon easy to access during this time, but they’re also incredibly nutritious – rich in protein and healthy fats that give eagles the energy they need, especially as temperatures drop and food becomes scarcer.
This one was partially hidden by branches, making it challenging to get a clear shot, but I managed to capture a moment of it calling out. Bald eagles are majestic, powerful creatures, and watching them in nature – perched high, surveying their world – is truly inspiring.
Salmon season aligns perfectly with the eagles’ feeding needs, allowing them to catch fresh fish or scavenge salmon that have already completed their life cycle. This feeding behavior doesn’t just sustain the eagles; it also plays an important role in the ecosystem. By consuming fish remains, bald eagles help keep the river clean, and as they carry fish carcasses to surrounding areas, they return nutrients to the forest, supporting the health of the entire environment. It’s incredible to witness this natural cycle and see firsthand how the eagles thrive alongside the salmon, embodying the resilience and balance of nature.
It’s incredible to know they can survive and even thrive amid the challenges of an urban wildlife area, a reminder of nature’s resilience.
I came across a red toadstool with white spots, a sight I’d only seen in books or photos until now. Seeing it in person felt almost magical, like something straight out of a fairy tale. I took my time to capture a photo, even crouching low to photograph the delicate gills underneath. The gills are an essential part of the mushroom’s reproductive system, releasing spores into the air to help new mushrooms grow. The vibrant red cap, dotted with white, and the intricate gills below were a reminder of how stunning and purposeful nature’s creations can be. It was one of those small discoveries that makes exploring the outdoors so rewarding.
What an incredible start!
Next up was the Nanaimo Fish Hatchery. Upon arrival, two twin bald eagles caught my eye, perched on a tall tree in perfect synchrony. While they were far out of reach for close-ups, they set the tone for a peaceful, self-guided walk through the hatchery trails.
The path was lined with spawning salmon, stunning fall leaves, and a lake that mirrored the vibrant oranges and yellows of the forest. The air was filled with that fresh, earthy scent of autumn – one of the forest’s best-kept secrets. And, thankfully, the rain held off, making the experience even more magical.
Walking along the hatchery’s riverbanks, I found myself beside the relentless, hard-working salmon. Watching them spawn was both awe-inspiring and a bit somber; everywhere I looked, there were fish who had completed their life’s work, lying still in the water. Each one had worked tirelessly to fulfill its purpose, creating new life before becoming part of the cycle themselves. The river was filled with these vivid, determined creatures in every color and size, all moving in their natural rhythm. Witnessing this up close was an incredible reminder of nature's resilience and the beauty in every part of life’s cycle.
The intensity of the fall colors was breathtaking – the reds and yellows were so vivid, especially when reflected through the water. It felt like the landscape itself was glowing. Along the trails, I came across an amazing variety of mushrooms, each one more unique than the last. One looked like tiny icicles hanging delicately from a log, while another was a patch of bright yellow fluff perched on moss, as if nature had decorated the forest with its own treasures. It’s incredible to see what nature creates when you slow down and really look.
"Photography invites us to slow down, breathe, and connect deeply with each moment—a gentle meditation that captures not just the world around us, but the quiet spaces within."
As autumn arrives, the green chlorophyll in leaves begins to break down, revealing the vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds that were hidden beneath. Chlorophyll is what allows plants to make energy from sunlight, but as days grow shorter and temperatures drop, trees start to conserve their energy for winter.
The yellow pigments, called carotenoids, become more visible as the chlorophyll fades, giving us those beautiful golden hues that light up the fall landscape. It’s nature’s quiet transition, a reminder of the changing seasons and the beauty in every cycle.
After a much-needed break and a cozy lunch in Nanaimo, I made my way to the Cowichan Bay Estuary, hoping to see more eagles. No eagles this time, but something equally thrilling awaited. A chorus of deep, echoing sounds led me to a large group of sea lions, lounging on a dock. I’d never seen sea lions up close before, let alone heard their distinctive, loud calls.
Watching the sea lions was mesmerizing – their noses pointed skyward as if soaking in sun that wasn’t there, piled together in a cozy heap. Some scratched, others made their deep, rumbling calls, and each one seemed to have its own funny personality.
Sea lions are incredibly social animals, often gathering in large groups called colonies. They love to rest together, using each other for warmth and comfort. As I watched the sea lions, I couldn’t help but wonder what they were saying to each other. Their barks and grunts echoed across the water, each sound carrying a rhythm and urgency that felt almost like a language. Were they sharing stories of the ocean depths? Arguing over a favorite fishing spot? Or perhaps just playfully teasing one another? Observing their interactions, I felt drawn into their world—a reminder of the mysteries that lie within every creature's communication. It was a joy to witness their camaraderie, leaving me with a sense of wonder about the lives they lead just beneath the waves
Despite their large, heavy bodies, sea lions are agile swimmers, capable of reaching speeds up to 25 miles per hour. Their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers make them excellent hunters in the water, where they can dive to impressive depths in search of fish and squid.
Up close, I noticed they weren’t the smooth, rubbery creatures I’d imagined but rather had a soft, velvety fur in various shades of brown. Seeing these massive animals so close, safely from the pier, was unforgettable. The photos I took really capture their charm and character.
I stood there, completely in awe of the sea lions – their sheer size and those deep, rumbling calls filling the air. I couldn’t help but wonder what they might be saying to each other. Despite the noise, there was a peaceful harmony; no one was fighting or pushing for space. Some were sitting upright, loudly vocalizing, while others were dozing off, looking as if they were lost in happy dreams. It was incredible to witness these powerful yet gentle giants in their element, each one perfectly content in their unique way.
As I walked back, I paused to take in the serene water, reflecting the vibrant fall trees nearby. I took a few deep breaths, letting the calmness wash over me and clearing my mind as I soaked in the beauty of nature. Being out here felt so refreshing, a perfect break from everyday routines, especially after all I’d experienced on this day. Cowichan Bay Marina and Estuary is a truly beautiful place in the fall, with colors that seem to glow and a peacefulness that fills you up.
On my way back to the car, I spotted the tiny, elusive Bufflehead duck – the one I’d been searching for over the past weeks! Its black and white plumage contrasted beautifully with the autumn colors reflected in the water, and in the right light, a hint of iridescent green shimmered on its head. Though shy and constantly darting away, it moved with quick, agile dives, disappearing beneath the surface only to pop up somewhere new, as if playing hide and seek. I managed to capture a few precious shots before it dove out of sight again – a thrilling end to the day’s discoveries.
By the time I headed home, I was sore and tired, but my spirit felt renewed. There’s something electrifying about being in nature, connecting with wildlife, and capturing those rare moments. This wasn’t just a day in the field; it was a reminder of why I love being a wildlife photographer, even on gray days in November. Nature’s beauty is everywhere, even in the rain, and sometimes, the simplest encounters are the most profound.
Amazing look at nature!
Your best one yet.