On November 15, 2024, I arrived at Charleston Lake in Charleston, Arkansas, just as the sun was rising. The thick fog gave everything a hazy, dreamlike quality. I parked near the boat ramp and prepared my camera from inside my truck. I use my truck as a blind. Almost immediately, I spotted a Great Blue Heron on the dam, hunting along the edge of the water.
The Great Blue Heron
Charleston Lake is a consistent spot to see these incredible birds. Each year, I find them here, and I often wonder if it’s the same Great Blue Heron returning. Great Blue Herons have an average lifespan of about 15 years in the wild, though some live longer. The oldest recorded Great Blue Heron lived to be over 24 years old. Perhaps I’ll be lucky enough to see this one for several more years.
As I watched, the heron moved closer, taking slow, deliberate steps through the shallow water. At one point, it climbed up onto the dam and relieved itself before returning to the water to continue hunting. Interestingly, Great Blue Herons don’t use the bathroom in the same water where they hunt, which helps keep their hunting grounds clean and suitable for catching prey. This behavior not only benefits the herons by ensuring a healthier hunting environment, but it also keeps the ecosystem balanced, as fewer contaminants mean better conditions for fish and other aquatic life.
I was able to capture a profile shot of the heron, with the soft fall colors of the leaves in the background. Shortly after, I managed to get a picture of it catching a small fish from the lake.
Bald Eagles Overhead
While I was enjoying the morning, I looked up and saw several Bald Eagles flying north. Seeing Bald Eagles in this area is always significant, as they are a symbol of a healthy ecosystem and have made a remarkable comeback in recent years. They were just dark silhouettes against the fog, too far away for a good photo, but still thrilling to see. Eventually, one of the eagles perched in a distant tree, and I managed to snap a shot, though it was quite far away. Later, I watched as a couple of eagles swooped down toward the lake, attempting to grab fish. They moved fast, and the fog made visibility difficult, but witnessing the action was incredible.
A Quiet, Foggy Morning
The fog made photography challenging, but it added a unique atmosphere. The soft light and the way everything blended together made the lake feel peaceful, almost like a scene from a story. The herons, the eagles, and the quiet, foggy sunrise made the early morning worth the effort.
Visiting Charleston Lake
If you’re ever thinking about visiting Charleston Lake, early morning is the best time to go. The fog may limit visibility, but it adds a distinct beauty to the lake. Bring some hot coffee, a good camera, and watch for the herons. Maybe one will stick around for you, just like it does for me.