Kip’s Comments - February 4, 2026
February is Done!
My personality is such that when I decide on something, I will get it completed or I will nearly die trying. One self-commitment made decades ago was to go paddling every month of the year. For many years I have completed that goal and 2026 will not be different. Today I took care of paddling in February when I took my canoe out on the Shell Rock River for a brief outing.
Canoe Along the Shell Rock River in Winter - Image 1062099
The Shell Rock River was flowing at a good pace, with plenty of ice moving downstream as well. Since the river is shallow in this location, I wore chest waders to ease in access and if needed for wading upstream or back down.
Canoeing Shell Rock River in Winter - Image 1062140
On the river this morning were many trumpeter swans. In fact, I may have seen my largest concentration of trumpeter swans in this area this morning. These pictures are just isolated birds; there were dozens more. Swans are such pretty birds!
Trumpeter Swans on Shell Rock River - Image 1062160
Trumpeter Swans on Shell Rock River - Image 1062188
The Shell Rock River looked extra nice this morning with frost on the trees along the south shoreline.
Shell Rock River in Winter - Image 1062143
Along with the trumpeter swans I saw plenty of bald eagles. This young bird was the closest, but certainly just one of many.
Young Bald Eagle - Image 1062229
It was a good day on the river!
