Dec 14 - Gravel Pit to Beacon Hill (Antelope Island)

 And it's another sunny day with temps in the mid-50s extending the non-winter streak. (I guess technically it's still Fall though). The mornings have been cool though; today it's 32 degrees. Heading to Antelope Island this morning to hike either Sentry Peak or the Gravel Pit.

As I drive up, there's fog layer over Farmington Bay -- looks like an ocean out there. 

I see one hawk on that same pole; must be his morning perch.

I arrive at the gateway and prepare to drive thru a thick fog bank. It opens in the middle of the drive and then closes again as I reach the Island.

I head south at the Island. It is foggy but I do not see any critters around the VC. In fact it's quiet until past the toilets where I find a decent size herd of bison.

I continue onto the Ranch; no critters near Sentry Peak. I have a clear hike but decide it's a Gravel Pit day.

I head back north passes that herd of bison.

Up near Beacon Hill I see a couple bison so I guess I'll have some company today!

Arriving at the TH, there is only car. I gear and start up the trail. As I walk myself out of the Pit, a fog band rolls - pretty cool.

I'm up on the ridge and the path is clear! (The bison who were nearby last week-end have moved on.)

As I walk south, I see a lone bison far to the west making his way east. If he keeps, I'll get a closer look on my return.

Also, I stop for some white spots to the west and sure enough, it's a herd of Pronghorn!!

As I round Beacon Hill, a hiker heading the opposite direction tells me there is a big herd of Beacon Hill. I knew that (well I knew there were a couple). Now the question is how far will I make it.

I head up Beacon Hill and pause after the first little hill. I look around and see only boulders. I take a few extra steps and I see bison amongst the boulders. Yikes! (I didn't make it that far!). I watch for a moment before starting the return trip.

I did not see that lone bison or that herd of Pronghorn on my return. ;(

But at the start of the causeway, there is a Blue Heron.

And after crossing the bridge, there are two more!

I do see a perched Kestrel too!

As I enter the highway, I see another Kestrel or Peregrine Falcon perched in a tree of the school. And I see several hawks as I head south.

Great day!

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