Our annual gathering with friends at Elk Ridge is always highlighted with great conversation, incredible food, outbursts of laughter and a chance to catch up on life. We are in the Boreal Forest a stones throw from a winter wonderland outfitted with cross country ski trails, snowshoeing paths, a skating rink, a hot tub and this year an abundance of Elk and birds.

A herd of Elk gather for a photo op.

Pine Grosbeaks, Redpolls and the occasional Black-capped Chickadee were on full display this year.

Female Pine Grosbeak

Female Pine Grosbeak

Male Pine Grosbeak.

Black-capped Chickadee and Redpoll heading to the bird feeder.

Grosbeaks and Redpolls foraging under a bird feeder.

Redpoll ready to land.

Redpoll approaching a landing perch.