Otters!

The first time I saw an otter (Lutra canadensis), I couldn't believe it. Surely it was a beaver. But the second time there was no doubt as three otters cavorted the length of Raymond Brook Marsh. After 15 months walking the Air Line, the trail still has surprises to offer.

A Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) seemed unphased by an otter swimming right by its feet.

If anything, it profited by the disturbance as, here, it stalks a fish.

Cooler morning temperatures brought morning mists...

...and glorious, fairyland frosts.

Each leaf appeared sugar coated, or outlined in rime.

Sunrise.

Reflected light offers a surreal perspective.

Geese by the score rev up each morning, preparing to fly.

And away they go, signaling the end of my year of pictures from the trail.