Late afternoon on a perfect fall day. I need a fall fix: birds are migrating, trees are changing colors, and fields are nearly harvested. I need to get out soon or I will miss out as the north rapidly transitions from fall to winter. Long Lake National Wildlife refuge, which is less than an hour’s drive, calls to me. Tango let’s go! I grab binoculars, camera, water and a dog bowl. Tango knows we are heading out for some fun and dances in circles, round and round.

Today I saw Seagulls, a multitude of Hawks, White Pelicans, Prairie Falcons, and a few blackbirds flocking in trees. A yellowish warbler is still around, as are geese, ducks, and Coots. The best moment: as Tango and I walked on the dirt road next to the lake a small flock of Sandhill Cranes flew overhead. They make such an interesting cooing sound. Birds how gone: Yellow-Headed Blackbirds, wading birds such as Plovers and Yellow Legs, hummingbirds.

En route to Long Lake, I stopped at another favorite lake. Tango and I walked along the edge of the field towards the lake and spotted the Coots

Hay bales and grain storage… classic Northern Plains sight.

Coots! I also saw Scaups in this area, as always.

Lots of geese, who were hanging out only with their mate over the summer, now regrouping before their flight south. Many geese overwinter in Colorado, but they must leave here. In a few months, the ice will be 3-4 feet thick and their food source hidden underneath.

I stopped at the only gas station on the drive to pick up some white cheddar popcorn (a new lower fat version) and found this rig in the parking lot. I waited around to meet the owner but gave up after about 5 mins.

The camo pattern was leafy and nicely done.

Love the chimney! This is one serious adventure rig.

At last, we arrive at Long Lake. Fall colors! Birds!

White Pelicans

Sandhill Cranes flying low..maybe stopping nearby for the night.

See you guys next year

Thanks to my Fitbit, I learned that we walked a couple of miles. The sun was bright and Tango overheated in his fur coat. We left the road and picked our way over rocks to the lake edge, where he drank endlessly.

After Tango had his fill of fresh water, we walked along this beach until it petered out.

These photos do not show trees, but I passed many leafy shelter belts and cottonwoods in their fall colors. I may do this trip next week to see who else is flying over North Dakota. Time for bed, but first I must dig out some warm sweats to wear as PJs. Wool socks, too. Nights are chilly!