A walk on the beach in winter is a welcome distraction. Of course it is easier on a windless day which is what we did. My husband and I drove to the north central shore in the national park on Prince Edward Island but beach access is limited this year. Much of the damage to the park has not been repaired since the destruction of Fiona. Also this year, the Gulf of St. Lawrence hasn’t frozen around the coastline of the island. The ice would prevent much of the erosion in winter. Therefore, the shoreline is unprotected thus far this winter and more erosion is a concern. However, one of the few areas where one can access the beach is at North Rustico.
It was a cold day but without the wind, one could dress for the temperature. There were a few people on the beach, but gulls were the main attraction.
They provided the beach music, that call so familiar in a maritime setting.
Along the beach, at the high tide mark, the foam was frozen.
Seaweed strewn across the beach was stiff from the cold.
Driftwood cast a shadow in the winter light.
Even the rocks looked petrified.
An occasional feather made one wonder if a bird missed the insulation the feather would afford.
A stream crossed the beach, rushing to meet the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Old weathered pylons from what could have been a wharf cross the stream. In the distance summer cottages wait for the heat which always brings visitors.
Later, we visited the old fisherman, frozen in the North Rustico Harbour this time of year.
Along the north shore, the coastline showed the icy touch of winter on the cliffs and rocks.
On our way home, we drove through the community of Stanley Bridge where the Stanley River is frozen. On the ice a Bald Eagle was scanning the area.
I took some photos from the car which it didn’t appear to mind as it stayed there the longest time. I wish it had let me know when it was taking flight so I could have had a better shot of its length. However, its feet and claws were well exposed in this shot and one can well imagine how this bird catches its food.
And it’s only six weeks to spring!