This weekend, Mariton hosted two programs for the Friends of Mariton. Both programs were great, because we have great members who attended and contributed conversation, knowledge and enthusiasm for wild things.
The Annual Gathering was Saturday night. (The Annual Picnic that was canceled in September, morphed into a reception with appetizers.) The response was incredible, and people enjoyed chatting with each other. But I eventually interrupted the fine conversations to introduce the evening program. People sat down and were instantly captivated by Kathy and Eric Uhler from the Pocono Wildlife Rehab Center (http://poconowildlife.com/).
Eric is seen here with Maximus, a Great-horned Owl who was hit by a car and can't fly well enough to be released into the wild. Besides rehabilitating wildlife that has had unfortunate encounters with humans, the Uhlers educate the public about the do's and don'ts of wildlife encounters. They are favorites here, and I always learn something new about the wild creatures that inhabit Mariton.
The second program started on a chilly Sunday morning. Fortunately the morning turned into a sunny day for members who kayaked down the Delaware River. Again, we benefited from each other's company, as we shared knowledge about the area's history, geology, canal construction, fishing hot spots, and wildlife sightings. We spotted Bald Eagles, including a mature eagle that flew directly overhead. We also saw an Osprey, Red-tailed Hawks and Rough-winged Swallows.
Several long-time residents commented how the view from the River of familiar landscapes added a new dimension to their perspective. Exactly. When you are sitting at splash level, water quality has a whole new meaning. And you begin to think about the things that affect the water quality of the Delaware River. For instance this view of Mariton from a kayaker's view. All that open space protecting soils, reducing run-off, and providing habitat for wildlife. Even perches and sanctuary for Eagles and Ospreys.