The flooding at Minneopa State Park has receded to the point where the beavers' favorite spot is accessible, once again. Photographing the beavers has become much more difficult, not only because of the water levels, but because the stagnant pools have spawned swarms of bloodthirsty mosquitoes! Still, risking West Nile for a photo of the beaver is acceptable.
This evening I didn't even have my camouflage gear and he/she still swam close. Maybe the beaver has decided I'm not a threat after all.
Sploosh!
Beavers use their snowshoe-shaped tail to splash as a warning signal. The sound is a deep-pitched sploosh, followed by the higher-pitched sound of the splashing water.
The green leaves made this image absurdly green, but I liked the natural framing of the tree leaves and their rippled reflection. It's sad to see so many oak trees tipped over, but the beavers enjoy the cover. The flooding has killed quite a few trees along the stream.
As always, thank you for your interest and I hope you enjoyed my work!
More wildlife photos here:
Bison
Geese & Duck