Kip’s Comments - February 13, 2026

A Sign?

Does some of our wildlife know something us humans are unaware of? Today I found a half-dozen northern pintails at Sweet Marsh.

Northern Pintail At Sweet Marsh - Image 1063858

Has the worst of winter passed us and the ducks know it? I certainly hope so!

Near the pintails were many mallards. Mallards have been around all winter, so their presence is not unusual.

Mallards at Sweet Marsh - Image 1063820

The Wapsie is beginning to open up nicely. If temps follow predictions, by next weekend most ice should be gone or nearly gone.

Wapsipinicon River - Image 1063873

Wapsipinicon River - Image 1063890