• Around the next corner

    The view is nice, in fact it’s beautiful even in mid afternoon on a summer day. It’s typical northern Saskatchewan. Like most of the best views, there’s much more here than scenery. There is the sound of clear water trickling over smooth rocks and cheerful birds singing. There is a sense of peace permeating the… Continue Reading

  • I want to fly … or not

    Who wouldn’t want the sensation of flying? The wind in your face, floating on air, ultimate freedom! One skydiver described freefalling between 10,000 feet and 3,000 feet as a surreal experience while speaking in hushed, reverent terms. So who wouldn’t want that thrill? Well … ahem … that would be me. My wife jumped out of a… Continue Reading

  • Intimidating the competition

    Apparently human athletes don’t have a lock on being a show off. For this slightly vain pelican, it all starts with admiring its reflection. Of course any athlete knows it’s important to stretch but this seems a bit showy. Though the audience seems a bit distracted. The next step is a carefully staged, disdainful look… Continue Reading

  • Defending the lowly … by myself

    In the wild kingdom there are many amazing, beautiful or powerful creatures. The muskrat is none of these. But I still feel something for this love-challenged underdog – perhaps it’s my Canadian roots. Unfortunately extolling the muskrat’s virtues is a public relations nightmare. Here’s a creature that is often described as ugly, appears a bit… Continue Reading

  • Looking for lunch

    When it comes to food, there are some striking similarities between wild creatures and male teenagers. Here’s my top three: They spend their waking hours looking for food … Good meat is in high demand … And every once in a while they get tricked into having vegetables … Where did this rather odd comparison… Continue Reading

  • Surprise attack … on the prairies?

    I usually feel safe walking around outside. After all, I live in the grain belt of the prairies – not exactly crawling with violent and venomous creatures. But a surprise encounter last week changed my perspective. There I was just enjoying the gorgeous weather and beautiful fall colours – the last thing on my mind… Continue Reading