Snow Geese at Emiquon

by Jane Garrison Ward,
Observation Date: March 13, 2013
Location: Thompson Lake, Junction IL 78 & Co. 9 Road
Weather: Sunshine with wind gusting up to 30 mph, 35 degrees F

Snow Geese have been frequenting the preserve during fall and spring migrations for the past few years, since Thompson Lake grew to its present size. This winter was no different.  Last Wednesday, March 13, 2013, I drove through the valley and found tens of thousands of geese in white rafts across the south end of the lake. When I arrived at the junction of IL 78 Hwy and County 9 Rd, I noticed a large number of geese up close to the edge of the lake, much closer than usual, so I pulled off onto the shoulder and got out of the car to take a few photos.