Monday, November 9, 2009

Goodbye Gary

Birding at a local lake has become a favorite spot for me not only because it is close but because I became close to a resident goose who was fondly named "Gary" by a fellow tweetter, @bonglelisa.






"Gary" was the most magnificent white goose I had ever seen and his personality was one to be admired. He was gentle and friendly and he graced the lake as he glid across the surface with his head held high full of confidence.  I would sit and watch him for the longest time awed at his size and the purity of his perfect white feathers.




He was a "take charge" kinda guy and made sure the others all knew who was boss and he fit right in . You would hear the occassional "honk" if others were misbehaving, but he was never agressive or showed anger towards any of the many birds that visited the lake. He was a gentle giant!





Mondays became my day for Mill Lake and I would look forward to seeing my new friend. Sadly, my visits will never be the same, on Sunday, November the 1st, "Gary" attempted to follow his flock as they flew off.  He did not gain the height necessary and flew directly into the hydro lines which took his life instantly.

I am heart broken. "Gary" may be gone, but he will never be forgtten. He brought joy to my Mondays and a presence to all at the lake. RIP Gary.















Please follow this link to the story of my favorite "Gary"
http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valley/abbynews/community/69423862.html

9 comments:

  1. That totally made me cry. I am so sorry for ur loss :(

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  2. I am so sorry. This is such a sad story. Take comfort in knowing that your beautiful photos of Gary captured the sweetness and personality described in your post. Take care.

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  3. Beautiful photos and tribute to a Beauty of a bird..

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  4. Gorgeous pictures and tribute, Robbie. RIP, Gary!

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  5. Such a sad story. Take comfort, in knowing that Gary would have been proud of how well you represented his life at Mill Lake.

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  6. We've had that happen to local Swans too. It's heartbreaking. A few years back they put big red balls on the lines so the Swans would fly over them. Wonder if something like that would have saved Gary ... rest his soul. Things like this just shouldn't happen.

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  7. A very touching tribute to a very beautiful creature.

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  8. I would like to thank everyone for their kind comments, they mean so much!!

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