The morning was cold and clear on Amherst Island's south shore. Bundled in my winter camouflage gear, I settled into the snow-covered brush with light wind at my back. The temperature hovered at a brisk -10°C as I waited in the surrounding silence.
After an hour had passed, a Bald Eagle appeared, flying with steady purpose along the shoreline. It moved in a smooth, controlled flight, eyes sharp for any sign of movement below. The eagle's path was straight, its focus unwavering as it searched for prey.
When it drew near—no more than 30 meters away—the eagle caught sight of me. Our eyes met briefly before it altered its course, choosing to fly along a different path, leaving me alone once more in the silent winter landscape.