If not giants, then at least the megafauna of Estabrook. I’m talking white-tail deer, the largest mammal at 88-198 lb, and Canada geese, the largest avian at 5.7–14.3 lb, which is slightly bigger than the bald eagle at 6.6-13.9 lb. Amazingly enough, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation has reported on a scuffle between a goose and an eagle in case you ever wondered how that would turn out.
Anyway, I haven’t seen hide nor hair of the deer since disturbing their nap back in December. No, I don’t believe they left, but they sure were lying low. This morning, they were still lying down, but not so low any more that I couldn’t find them for the first time in 2021. There were four of them, possibly the four we used to see cavorting on the soccer fields last summer, but only three would fit in this picture.
They all mostly kept a close eye on me…
except for this one, who had other concerns, and it’s nice to know that I’m as scary as ever.
Glad to see that they all look none the worse for the wear after our nice deep winter.
Next, the geese, who also went missing sometime in December, are back. I’ve seen a flight or two over the past week, but this is the first time they opted to land in our part of the river, that I know of, and some of them had a lot to say.
Here’s another pair apparently discussing where to build their nest. I think one of them wanted a spot with a view. I did not know geese could land in or on a tree.
They were still discussing it when I left, and maybe they are still discussing it now.
I did spot an eagle again, and I even thought I got a picture of it, but by the time my camera woke up and realized “we’re doing this now”, the eagle had already drifted out of frame, and I was left with just another shot of ducks. Oh well.
Speaking of ducks, I also got to witness this fascinating behavior a few times from a male red-breasted merganser. I thought for sure I’d be hearing an accompanying call, but I guess it’s not very loud, and I couldn’t here it over the sound of the river.
Finally, here s shot of some goldeneyes and a mallard that really shine in the nice morning sun.
Signs of Life in Estabrook Park 
Andy,
I just have to let you know how much I enjoy these emails. Thank you so much for the beauty and knowledge that you share.
Elizabeth Price, Senior Resource Center Coordinator
2010 E Shorewood Boulevard
Shorewood, WI 53211
414-847-2727
For more information please visit our webpage: http://www.villageofshorewood.org/src
Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/shorewoodSRC
Sign up for information through the Weekly Manager’s Memo
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Dear Ms. Price,
Thank you for your very kind words. I must apologize, however, for leading you to believe that I know any of this stuff. While some things do sink in over time, for the most part, my brain is like a steel trap, rusted shut, and I’m left consulting Dr. Google just like everyone else.
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Sweet! I love the photos of our furry friends. nice job, as always.
Carolyn Bucior
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Hi, While coming home from Church this morning, we were surprised by a small herd of Geese crossing Rt 10 down in the valley by Dunkin Donuts. They were so brazen it was hilarious. I think it took five minutes for the dozen or so to waddle across the road! Dad
On Sat, Feb 27, 2021 at 12:46 PM Signs of Life in Estabrook Park wrote:
> Andrew Dressel posted: ” If not giants, then at least the megafauna of > Estabrook. I’m talking white-tail deer, the largest mammal at 88-198 lb, > and Canada geese, the largest avian at 5.7–14.3 lb, which is slightly > bigger than the bald eagle at 6.6-13.9 lb. Amazingly enough, the” >
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Wow. An Eagle and a Canadian Goose. Wouldn’t want to mess with those two. Good think Honey Badger wasn’t in the neighborhood.
But seriously, I’m so excited about sharing eminent spring with you on your blog, Andy. I haven’t been getting out enough, and I look forward to checking in on your hikes every day.
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