Leaving Alberta

Snowy Owl

 I had another great trip back to Alberta.  The Archaeological Society of Alberta Flintknapping Workshop on Sunday was a blast and during the rest of the trip I saw lots of family that I hadn't seen in years.  The temperature was cold - as low as -33 degrees Celsius, and often in the -20 range.  I'm kicking myself for forgetting my camera on the day of the workshop, but I received a few photos from the official photographer that I think I can share with you on Friday.  In the meantime, here's some of the scenery from around the countryside.

I was only on the farm for a couple hours when this frosty coyote trotted through the yard.  It was minus 25 and he led the dogs on a leisurely chase across the pasture.

These four coyotes were born last summer a few miles north of the home place.

This is the farm where I grew up in Southern Alberta and where I stay when I come for a visit.  I miss the big sky.

I've never seen so many snowy owls.  You can spot them sitting on the power poles every few miles.

Can you spot the owl in this shot?

The Great Horned Owls seemed more comfortable in the trees.

The snowy owls were just as at home on the ground.  They look big when you see them walking through a pasture.  I thought this one was a coyote when I first saw it from the road.

Snowy Owl in flight.  Beautiful birds.

Photo Credits: Tim Rast