Dec 25 - Little Dell Reservoir

Merry Christmas!

It cold and snowless in SLC. 

And even colder in the mountains so I'm going part way to the Reservoir this morning. I have wool, fleece, light winter coat, wool hat and my best gloves and mask.

It's not an early start; more like closer to 10 am.

I wind up Emigration Canyon this morning. Great view down into the SL valley as the inversion is not strong yet.

I crest at the Pass and start going downhill. I'm looking around hoping I spot a deer/elk/moose. I'm about 1/2 way down and I spot some dark in the trees farther down. Fortunate for me, there's a pull-off and I pull in and get out of my car for a look. At first I see nothing but then there's the dark spot. I zoom in with my camera and.... it's Moose!! 

Awesome Christmas present! There's no antlers so I'm not sure male/female but it's actively eating. 

I watch for a bit before heading down.

Not many people out this morning - not unexpected. The water is unfrozen but there's a fog swirling around in spots along the surface. Pretty cool looking.

It's 11 degrees and I put on everything I have except the mask and start down the trail. 

Lots of hoar frost on the vegetation; it look awesome as it's sparkling.

There are ducks on the lake -- look like Mallards.

I make a quick stop at the lake

and then continue down the trail. 

Nothing too exciting. I spot some fresh rabbit tracks and farther down some moose tracks. But not critters except a Robin.

I reach the road and start making my way to my car. I see a Kingfisher fly across the road in front of me. He's calling. Pretty cool!

There's also a bird perched at the top of a tree. Holy cow! It's a Northern Shrike!!

I also see a Chickadee and some other unidentified birds.

Awesome day!