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Monday, 12 September 2016

The beach near Brander's Pond

The road is deep in the red dirt as we make our way to the beach near Brander's Pond on the north shore of Prince Edward Island.

 

The pond is surrounded by abundant vegetation, Marram grass, asters, and golden rod which almost hide it. 

 

 

A stream flows from the pond and meanders to the beach where it empties into the Gulf of St. Lawrence. 

 

The forecast says rain later today and it is overcast, but we take the chance to have another picnic in the warm weather. At the beach there is a slight breeze, which makes the heat and humidity of this September day bearable. 

There is much to see. As the tide recedes, it makes a larger playground for the beach birds, the plovers, 

 

sanderlings

 

and whimbrels. 

 

The gulls are a curiosity, silent sentinels on the beach with their heads into the wind.

 

The young gulls look different from the more mature gulls of the same species.
 
 

There are a number of lobster pots washed ashore and someone created an art piece, with Marram grass, seaweed and red sand as a backdrop.

 

A lone sea stack stands off shore. 

 

It is hard to imagine the shoreline at that position in the not too distant past. 

 

It has become a roost for cormorants.

 
 
The kelp accumulates on the beach in various places 

 

while some types of seaweed look pretty against the red sand.

 

The beach stretches out before us and the beach birds lead the way,

 
 
running as fast as their legs can go as we walk westward. 

 
 
The sandstone cliffs show the effects of erosion, with rock falls and caves. 

 

Sand from upper layer of the cliffs has fallen down in many areas, creating mounds of soil along the rock face.

 

Although the physical features of the shoreline change, plants take hold anywhere there is enough soil for the seeds to germinate and take root. 

 

Mother nature is an optimist.

The gentle waves kiss the shore as the sky holds back the rain, the food is delicious and the company is great. These last few days of summer are an inspiration.

 

30 comments:

Anvilcloud said...

You are a very good observer and reporter.

DJan said...

It's a very unique place, and I sure did enjoy walking along the beach with you. :-)

Debra She Who Seeks said...

Silent gulls? Isn't that a contradiction in terms? They are usually the noisiest damn things!

Anonymous said...

Such a beautiful place. How fortunate you are. The gulls look like they are praying. We can learn a lot from birds.

Kailani said...

It looks so very serene there. Puts a smile on my face. :)

Celia said...

Peaceful beach walk. Thanks for taking us along.

Judith @ Lavender Cottage said...

I loved the red beaches when we visited your province, lots of activity by birds for photos too.

Down by the sea said...

I feel as if I have walked along this beach with you, it's lovely. Sarah x

Elephant's Child said...

How very, very beautiful.
Love the relative absence of people too.

Marie Smith said...

It is interesting that you say that, AC. I try to live in the moment and soak up everything around me. It is as if I am recording it all. I have a whole new appreciation for everything.

Marie Smith said...

I'm glad you came along. It is so much nicer when the experience is shared.

Marie Smith said...

They were silent which is unusual I agree. It is a common behaviour for gulls to be stood like that.

Marie Smith said...

Maybe they were praying. It was as if they could hear somethng the humans could not.

Marie Smith said...

The beaches here are never too crowded and this tme of year, there are few people. It is serene.

Marie Smith said...

Glad you came along Celia.

Marie Smith said...

The birds are incredible! I love the red beaches too.

Marie Smith said...

We had a great walk that day, Sarah. And walking with a friend is wonderful.

Marie Smith said...

So few people on our beaches, EC. It was a wonderful day, serene and inspirational!

John "By Stargoose And Hanglands" said...

It's a while since I wandered along a deserted beach, something I must put right some time soon. Ringed Plovers, Sanderlings and Whimbrel occur in our coastal areas too, sanderlings I could watch for a long time as they scurry about by the incoming tide.

Emma Springfield said...

You got some great pictures. Very scenic. The lobster trap sculpture impressed me. It seems that an artist will never pass up an opportunity to create.

Marie Smith said...

I hope you can get to the beach soon, John.

Marie Smith said...

I loved it too. Some people are so creative.

Angela said...

Absolutely breathtaking! You do notice many details in nature. Wonderful photos! Thank you!

Ginnie Hart said...

We often do the same, Marie...venture out no matter what the forecast is...and are often surprised by joy! I love all the different birds you can see there, let alone the beach variations and vegetation. i have a feeling you love it there as much as I love it here. There is so much to see! I like that we can share it with each other. :)

Marie Smith said...

It is beautiful there. Worth another visit for sure!

Marie Smith said...

I love it too, Ginnie! Blogging lets you visit other people and places on a regular basis. You see and understand the people and their culture through modern means! I love it!

The Furry Gnome said...

Love that red PEI rock - such a beautiful shoreline!

Marie Smith said...

It is indeed beautiful shoreline! Maybe you will come to visit the east coast in your new RV.

baili said...

Beautiful photos dear Marie.

traper looks interesting.
sea stack is wonderful

baili said...

Happy Lovely summer days dear Marie!
Hope you are enjoying your wandering and capturing in your beautiful area!
Blessings