While canoeing on Lake Maligne, near Jasper in the Canadian Rocky Mountains in August, I had a rather amazing experience. My friend and I were drifting in the canoe, taking in the magnificent scenery, when two loons popped up in the water next to us. Getting close to a loon is always magical, but then one of them started to stand up and run about on the lake, but without using it's wings. The loon ran around on the surface, splashing and calling out. I’m not sure what it was doing, it seemed the wrong time of year for a courtship or mating ritual, and we were not near the shore or any young (that we could see), so I don’t think it was a display to attract our attention away from any young or a nest. Whatever it was, it was spectacular, and went on for some time, even as we drifted away.  On the trip we also saw Ospreys and Bald Eagles, rather a fantastic place to visit if you ever get the chance.

Space to danceA loon dances on mist shrouded Lake Maligne, Alberta. Shake and FlapA loon gives a shake on lake Maligne, Alberta. FocussedA Bald Eagle intently watches the comings and going on Lake Maligne, Alberta.