April 10, 2024
West Medicine Lake Park
West Medicine Lake Park
Early spring in Minnesota, and I was excited for the migrating birds to start returning. The eBrid app reported a Tufted Titmouse at my local park, and since it was on my list to see I headed down after work to try to find it. Unfortunately, as I arrived the winds began blowing, the skies darkened and the rain began to fall. Knowing it was a passing storm, I decided to head back home for an early dinner, vowing to return again later that afternoon.
The unexpected rain delay turned out to be an amazing gift. My return an hour later was greeted by the sun lowering on a beautiful post storm sky which provided absolutely beautiful light. Stopping at a pond, I found both a Hooded Merganser and a Wood Duck. After taking several photos, I decided to move on to another pond and it was then that I noticed the rainbow over the lake. The ducks and Titmouse could wait - I had to capture the fleeting rainbow.
Upon arriving at the lake shore not only did I find a beautiful rainbow reflection on the lake but also a Common Loon. Could I really be that lucky? At that point, the Loon was still a way off so I crept down off the path and into some bushes to see if he would come my way. Since the sun was setting behind me and I was hiding in a low dark area, I truly believe he couldn't see me. I didn't dare move or make any noise. All I could do was wait as he slowly swam toward me and the rainbow reflection. Holding my breath, I hoped he would reach the reflection before the rainbow faded. Ten minutes later he finally arrived - and the rainbow was still there! The camera came to life and captured many images, a few of which are shared here.
I never did find that Tufted Titmouse. But, as in life, although we don't always find what we seek, we are often surprised to find other unexpected treasures.
