Kip’s Comments - October 6, 2026

Just Feet Away

As I began my paddling on the river this morning I thought I would concentrate my photography efforts on documenting “glimpses of autumn.” I did my best to paddle very quietly within a few feet of the shoreline. Along my watery path I found some leaves changing colors, but no large views of reds and yellows. Still, I continued moving quietly along the shoreline. My autumnal photo feature idea was good, but was positively derailed by a surprise observation.

All autumn color searches paused when I noticed the shine of a single eye. There it was, only feet away and hidden in darkness. I was watching a mink watching me from the safety of shadows on the river bank.

Mink - Image 1159688

This mink remained in position for many long seconds as I recorded image after image. And then, in a split-second, the mink was gone. No noise from leaves, no splash in the water… just gone.

Had I been allowed just one photo, any would have been acceptable. With many to choose from, I prefer the first image over all others. I will share a couple of others too, just because I have them.

Mink - Image 1159676

Mink - Image 1159661