Walking Kelly's Point: Land Steward's Encounter with Nature

Kelly's Point on Guemes Island never disappoints when it comes to scenic beauty and wildlife activity. As I embarked on my land steward check, I found myself drawn to the shoreline, where seven Black Oystercatchers were busy feeding. Their striking black plumage, long bright orange bills, and characteristic whistles made them impossible to ignore.

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Positioning myself about thirty feet away, I decided to sit quietly on a rock and observe, camera in hand, hoping to capture memorable moments. To my delight, the oystercatchers continued working their way toward me. It was as if they were offering the perfect photo opportunity, and I clicked away with growing excitement as they got closer—five feet away now, yet utterly undisturbed, focused solely on their feeding.

An oystercatcher with a limpet that it pried off with its long beak.

What struck me most was their behavior. Every now and then, they would glance toward the water, wide-eyed and wary. I initially thought they might be reacting to another person walking the shoreline, but after scanning the area, I saw no one. The second time they paused, their uneasiness was even more pronounced. Something had them on edge.

Suddenly, the group erupted into flight, their calls of alarm cutting through the coastal air. I quickly surveyed the shoreline again—still empty. But then I glanced upward, and the mystery revealed itself. A Red-tailed Hawk was circling, its focus locked on the oystercatchers. The predator's mere presence was enough to send them into panic mode.

As the hawk soared above, I could not help but marvel at the tension between predator and prey that defines the natural world. It was a “wait for it” moment—a blend of patience, anticipation, and a front-row seat. Those ninety minutes sitting on the rock, waiting, and observing, turned into one of the most rewarding. 

Red-tailed Hawk on the hunt!

Whether it is Black Oystercatchers, Red-tailed Hawks, or just the quiet rhythm of waves meeting the shore, there is always something extraordinary waiting to be witnessed on Guemes Island. And for those who seek it, all you need is a bit of patience and a keen eye.

Kelly’s Point, Guemes Island, WA

© Chris LeBoutillier

“Photographs are silent; one’s thoughts give them life.” ™  -Chris LeBoutillier