Larry A. Smail's Blog

  What event to view nature could be better that a ten-mile float trip on the Snake River? Fortunately for us, this is not a Class 5 float!!   

Immediately, upon entering the Snake River an eagle was observed. The mature bird was settled on a bluff’s edge with his wings slightly opened to dry off.  The rest of the trip just had to be a good one!

The Snake River consists of clear, cold water favorable to fish species such as the native Cutthroat Trout. Our native trout in Pennsylvania is the Brook trout. Eagles, otters and osprey prey on these trout when opportunity exists. This might be why the eagle was drying out. The bird may have attempted to catch a trout.                                                                             

The float guide knew the waters well as we drifted south. We were all in constant state of alertness for various wildlife species. We wouldn’t be disappointed! In total we saw seven different bald eagles including one immature eagle of the year. the big birds seemed to tolerate us very well.

Pronghorn

Bald eagles

We continued on and suddenly we saw a young bull moose. What a thrill this was! Unfortunately, the vegetation did not allow for any quality photos. Fishermen, farther along, reported just seeing a cow elk, but she had disappeared.

Other bird species observed were Common Mergansers, a sandpiper and Canada geese. We saw a raccoon looking for food along the water’s edge. the ‘coon didn’t seem concerned our presence at all.

Bull Moose

A small heard of pronghorn antelopes  were grazing in the lush grasses. They allowed  several photos.

Immature Eagle

So, with seeing all of these varied species of wildlife with the majestic Grand Tetons contrasting the green pines how could we have asked for anything else!