Although the focus of this blog is primarily birds and the photographs of those same fine feathered friends, how can a Duluth native not love the ships that ply Lake Superior. While the newer 1,000 footers carry more ore, grain, and coal … for us folks who have watched the boats at Canal Park for years, it is the older ships which we love.

Today, the Alpena, made one of her two monthly visits to the Twin Ports of Duluth and Superior. The Alpena is a grand old lady, built in 1942, and her classic lines make her a true “Queen of the Lakes”. Thus, I drove over to the overlook at Enger Tower and enjoyed her entry into the Duluth Harbor. I hope you enjoy my photos!

The Alpena enters the Duluth Harbor on a busy day at the waterfront.

One of the treats that comes with living up here in the Northland is the world is a beautiful explosion of color and scenery. As much dawn’s early light will often find me chasing brightly colored birds that are enhanced by the shadows and nuances of the golden hour, Lake Superior often pulls me down to her shore before sunrise.

Such was the case yesterday. Awakening at 4:15 am I glanced out the window. Some scattered storm clouds were moving off to the east. Although still half asleep, I jumped out of bed, threw on shorts and a t-shirt (plus a sweater … this is Lake Superior land after all!) and drove down to Canal Park in Duluth.

I took this photo while dawn’s early light was just being hinted. The sun would not come up for some time yet. I like the resulting image; hope you do also!

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Twilight Storm Rise!

Although a few days ago it was -15F, yesterday we experienced an all time record high in Duluth, 60F! The birds and humans all love this temperature swing. I’ve already taken two bike rides up the shore, and enjoyed open water returning to Canal Park. The birds are slowly learning of the open water. This bald eagle was fending off some attempts by the local crow population to get invited to breakfast!

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After sunset I return to Canal Park and caught the Aerial Bridge reflected in a large snow melt water puddle.