The temperature was decent today except when the wind gusted.  It drifted snow across the road in the open areas and created snow devils between the yards.  That didn't stop me from bundling up and heading to Elk Island this morning.  I needed some fresh air!

On the drive to the park, the snow drifted across the highway.  A herd of bison was foraging for grass.  I could see some ravens circling and then landing in a high tree top.  As I got closer, I could see that they were trying to fend off a bald eagle that was perched in the tree next to them.  I hadn't seen an eagle for quite awhile.  It didn't appear bothered by the raven raucous.

I drove through the park without seeing any other wildlife.  It was a toss up as to which trail I was going to hike but decided at the last minute to turn into the Amisk Wuche parking lot.  The trail was packed down so there was no need for the snowshoes.  I slipped on the hiking cleats and away I went.

Light snow was falling and the wind was whipping it across the ice on the beaver ponds.  There were many bare patches that reflected the little bit of sun that shone through.  The wind continued up the ravine bank and swayed the tall spruce trees back and forth.  I could hear them creaking as the wind whistled through their branches.

The big spruce that blew over in the gale force winds a few weeks ago was still blocking the trail.  I had to duck under the huge trunk.  It looked as if it had settled more as I had to bend lower to get underneath it.  The wind blew over another large tree since I walked the trail last.  Both looked like toothpicks that were snapped off. 

The squirrels and the chickadees were out in full force.  I watched 8 chickadees in the branches of one evergreen.  They flitted from branch to branch; sometimes hanging upside down while foraging for seeds.

On the drive home, I stopped to watch some horses grazing in an open field.  There was no shelter from the blustery wind but it didn't look like they minded.  As it gusted over the area, they galloped and chased each other around.

I hope the day is calm tomorrow.  My little sleepover buddies are staying this weekend.  We're hoping to take the x-country skis and the skates out for a spin!