spring

MiddleCreek Wildlife Management Area

     Nestled between Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, MiddleCreek is a 6,200 acre wildlife preserve which includes a 360 acre lake.  The area was developed in the 1970s and has become a stop for various waterfowl migrating back north each spring.  Bird numbers range from a few thousand ducks, Canadian Geese, to over 100,000 snow geese.  

     I arrive before dawn and make my way to an observation point.  Its early and yesterday's snow and the ice on the lake have caused a low fog to form.  The skies are cloudy but I do see breaks forming.  I am joined by dozens of others, some sporting 600mm telephoto lenses to get close ups of the birds.  I find a spot and get setup.   Now all to do is wait for the show.