Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve

I discovered this gem of a preserve during the pandemic when I was working remotely from the Capital Region. I had never been before, and on my first or second visit on a chilly, overcast February day I was strolling along the birdwatching trail loop, with my headphones on, when I nearly bumped into a female barred owl just hanging out on a tree branch over the trail, presumably scanning for prey. I had never seen an owl so close up before, and never one with such gorgeous, haunting eyes. I kept a respectful distance and took as many photos as I could. She tolerated me for about 30-60 seconds before slowly turning around and diving off into flight. It was February, so there were no leaves to hide her progress through the silent wood, and her wings made no sound at all. I had never seen a wingspan so big, and the fact that she made no sound at all filled me with a real sense of humility and awe. I had no idea we had such things living amongst us in this area. Needless to say, the experience turned me into a birder for life. Since then, I have been back several times a year to go birding. I've seen Belted Kingfishers and Great Egrets up close, observed beaver on the ice making their homes, and observed snakes and turtles of various kinds in abundance nearly every time I go. Highly recommended for birders, nature enthusiasts, or anyone who just wants to "get away from it all" close to home.