A couple of days after opening up the lake house we returned to enjoy a beautiful evening.

Before checking on the loon nest I took a hike to the Turtle River that runs from Lake Beltrami into and then out of Fox Lake. I stopped at the bridge to take a few shots. An oriole sang to me.

Located some incoming mallards.

Landing site located.

Coming in for the landing.

And we have touchdown!

They stayed in this area …

I’m assuming their nest is nearby.

There is a blue heron downstream but too far away for a picture.

Lots of other birds here that sing to break up the silence

In and out of the reeds.

A northern suns itselt in the shallow water beneath the bridge.

Some approaching kayakers made the blue heron take flight.

Time to go check on the loons’ nest.

I was only there a few minutes before the nest sitter decided to take a swim and stretch its wings.

A few more stretches and …

… time to go find its mate.

Racing down the runway.

I really wish the runway had been facing me.

Almost up to speed.

And it’s off …

I guess that left me in charge to watch the nest.

The unguarded nest drew some attention …

… and the would be robber started to circle with a watchful eye.

The return home of the pair was quick and just in time.

There was a lot of noise …

… and some showing of size and bravery.

… and the would be robber quickly departed.

And as everything settled down …

… the lovely couple spent some quality time together.

A pair of loons and one of mallards, a great blue heron and an eagle caught the attention of photographer Mike Bogert on a recent trip to Fox Lake in northwestern Minnesota. Fox is located on a chain of lakes connected by the Turtle River. Other lakes on the chain include Lake Beltrami, Big Turtle Lake, Movil Lake and Little Turtle Lake.