Predator

Modern day velociraptor...

Grey herons are unique birds. They have these odd quills (feathers?) that stick out from their chest and back.

In flight they look -- and sound -- like miniature modern-day pterodactyls.

They are often preyed upon by local eagles who like to eat their eggs, but they are impressive as predators in their own way. This particular bird at nearby Swan Lake is deadly still and poised to strike at a fish in the water.

In with the new...

Sleek and shiny...

Several weeks ago my wife and I paddled down the Gorge 'river' to see Victoria's new bridge from a different perspective.

When the walls come tumblin' down...

The remains of Customs House in Victoria, BC...

... as John Mellencamp once sang.

In this case, Victoria's iconic Customs House on the waterfront has come tumblin' down as a prelude to some VERY pricey, high-end condos that will be erected there instead.

World On Fire

A harbour ferry under a sky of haze and smoke...

BC is experiencing another season of apocalyptic wildfires which has led to it declaring a province wide state of emergency. This follows last year's record breaking wildfire season.

Locally, smoke and haze has been lingering over the region. On the downside, it's making life miserable for those with respiratory issues. On the plus side, it's tinting the sun and dusk sky a pinky-orange hue that makes for dramatic sunsets.