Kip’s Comments - August 24, 2025

Observations From Big Woods Lake

Each of the following images was recorded at Big Woods Lake this morning. I shared the water with several other paddlers and a couple of boats. Walkers and bicycle riders kept the trail around the lake occupied. It was a good morning at the park.

Great Blue Heron - Image 1017364

Canoeing at Big Woods Lake - Image 1017098

False Map Turtle - Image 1017266

False Map Turtle - Image 1017292

Canoeing at Big Woods Lake GP - Image 1017135

Painted Turtle - Image 1017400

Painted Turtle - Image 1017450

Painted Turtle - Image 1017486

While paddling I noticed a hitchhiker in the front of my canoe. I am pretty sure most people would promptly leave the canoe or smash their guest. Apparently the spider and I had an understanding. It could stay in the canoe as long as it stayed up front. We had no problems during the entire voyage.

Potter's Grass Spider in Canoe - Image 1017493