Arriving at the South Natick Dam area of the Charles River, we quickly unloaded our boats into a pine grove then set out for a paddle on the river. The day was bright, sunny but a bit chilly at around 51 degrees. The strong southwest wind made the temperature feel even cooler.
Wildlife: Almost instantly we spied a pair of mute swans lingering near the shore. As these are aggressive birds we made sure to give them a wide berth.
Nearby a female Canada goose was sitting on her nest while her male counterpart was distracting anyone/thing that came close.
Basking on logs and in the matted swamp area were many turtles. Paddling to get a closer look only made them plop into the river.
Overhead we heard the unmistakable call of a red-tail hawk. Swooping easily through the trees he made his way in search of lunch.
Our Lady of the River |
There are many stories surrounding this mysterious statue, but she was erected on a boulder on the side of the river before the Depression by a writer named Daniel Sargent.
Our trek back to the landing area was rather quick as the swift current carried us without much effort (as if in repayment of our hard work and effort going upstream.) We spent 2 hours paddling upstream and it took only about 40 minutes to get back to the South Natick Dam.
We just love how each adventure on the Charles River is different from the previous one! You know it was a good day on the river when you can feel your muscles ache and you're ready for a good night's sleep!
It was a great day... The water was fun, company even better! I just loved watching those hawks... and what about that red breasted, bare footed, homo sapien?!
ReplyDeleteSo cool!! Okay, I was just about to ask when I get to come along on a maiden vogage when I read Carol-Ann's comments about the bird species. I think I might not be allowed in the group as my orinthology knowledge is not quite at that level!! haha Sounds like you all had a wonderful time!!
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