©Stacy Ratel
October 20, 2024
Golden Hour on the River
- as seen by -
Stacy Ratel
@back_yard_birdie Just before dusk, I lowered my gear down the stairs on the port side of the sailboat as I carefully climbed into the dinghy. The motor started with one confident pull, and we made a short passage across Deep River in Connecticut. As we exited the main stem and ventured into a tributary, the wetland’s marshy embankments came to life with colors – purple loosestrife blossoms, cattails, and tall reed grasses. Below us, swaths of elodea and flat sea grass waved gently in the current, while the still water mirrored the low-hanging branches of trees along the river’s bend. We navigated carefully, mindful not to run aground.
When a beaver lodge came into view, the captain cut the motor, and we drifted silently. The scene was a visual masterpiece: as the golden hour faded into twilight, the sky turned a cobalt blue, casting soft light across the horizon. Lush green foliage extended far into the distance, while cumulus clouds and cottonwood trees reflected perfectly in the calm water.
Suddenly, a loud noise shattered the silence – a powerful slap echoed across the water. It was the beaver’s (Castor canadensis) tail telling his family to remain safe within the intricate tunnels of the lodge. The large rodent’s dramatic flip and splash sent ripples across the water as he resurfaced ahead of us.
For a fleeting moment, the beaver swam alongside the dinghy, his velvety fur visible as he gracefully glided through the water like a seal. His nose briefly lifted above the surface before he dove again, disappearing beneath the grasses, taking my excitement with him deep below.
The beavers of Deep River, Connecticut play a crucial role in shaping and sustaining the wetland ecosystem. Their dams help regulate water flow, create habitats for other wildlife, and foster biodiversity in the area. However, wetlands and waterways are increasingly vulnerable to habitat loss, pollution, and human development. By protecting and conserving these natural environments, we can ensure that the beaver and other species continue to thrive, maintaining the health of our riversides for generations to come.
Canon R5 with 100-500 lens and 1.4 extender
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