My better half had a doctor’s appointment that was going to be an hour or two, so I took a short walk at Lake Elkhorn before grabbing some lunch.

It was a bit overcast, and I forgot to take my monopod with me.

The place was packed with walkers, joggers and bikers. Also, some 4-legged friends were along for the stroll.

The fall colors are just starting here.

The pond below the dam is a spot a Blue Herron likes. I didn’t see them today.

As I walked back to the dock in the first shot something in the water caught my eye from a distance.

Once he saw me, he made a turn right towards me.

Maybe just curious but I was amazed at how close he came to the dock.

About 5 feet before the dock it dove, and I didn’t see him/her again.

I’ve got to work on my wildlife photos. I have to take my tripod out more.

Photos by Mike Hartley