Photos

Against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains are the intertidal wetlands of the Valdez Duck Flats. Recognized as a State of Alaska Critical Habitat Area, the Duck Flats are an important staging area for migrating birds, and an important nesting area for waterfowl.

Twice each day, the tide covers and uncovers the wetland vegetation. This intertidal area is vegetated with thick salt-tolerant sedge. Alder and willow trees surround the areas. The expansive mudflats are home to a wide variety of invertebrate such as insect larvae and small clams. Buried in the mud, these small creatures are an important food source for the over 20 different species of birds that visit the area.

The Bald Eagle is common in Prince William Sound. There are more bald eagles in Alaska than in all the other states combined. They have a 6 - 8 foot wingspan and can be seen throughout the year along riverways and in forests in Valdez and Prince William Sound. Large concentrations of eagles can be viewed in early spring and several pairs often nest along the Duck Flats, providing a rare wildlife watching treat.

This particular photo was recently taken about 07:00 am several hours after sunrise. The tide is out during this time of day. In the center of the photo you can see one of several waterfalls that grace this mountain. The temperature during this time of season averages about 75 degrees.

The only adjusting I did was sharpened one time and cropped the foreground a bit.