My friend Ellen and I paddled Big Lagoon and Maple Creek this morning followed by a lunch break on the beach. You never know what your going to see when you head out on these excursions. I could say, timing is everything, but that might be a little too cliche.

As we unloaded our gear onto the beach we watched a river otter family cruise thru the nearby lagoon. Such a great start to the morning! Otters are cute little animals with what looks like a playful spirit. In actuality they can be very nasty and will bite if provoked. This is their child rearing season and so visitor beware; they will defend their young if they perceive a threat. A few weeks ago this was proven true when a local swimmer was bitten several times (through her wetsuit). The details of just how and why this happened are unclear but to be safe the poor woman went thru rabies treatment. The county posted a warning sign at the boat lunch.

We launched our boats at 8:22 am with the intent of meandering up Maple Creek. It’s always a potluck type of experience; it can be very quiet with just an array of small birds in the tules or you can get very lucky. Let’s just say, our month was made. As we came around the bend a herd of Roosevelt elk were lounging nearby. A group of young males (small racks) and adult females watched as we very cautiously approached. Elk are not afraid of water and will defend themselves if they perceive a threat. We held back as they mutually checked us out, and then slowly strolled off into the nearby meadow. It was absolutely COOL! These kind of moments are a gift.

Enjoy my pics! Note to self: get serious about that telephoto lens. #iluvtokayak #kayaking #biglagoon #maplecreek #rooseveltelk #humboldtcounty #humboldt

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