Gull Point

Gull Point is the name given to the very tip of Presque Isle. This part of the peninsula constantly changes. A sign at the kiosk at Budny Beach (upper left of the map) states that in the year 1900, the peninsula ended right where we were standing, so from a geologic perspective, Gull Point is embryonic. Each storm or sustained shift in the winds can cause changes to the buildup or deposits of sand, and you can see from the map that the area called Thompson's Bay might someday be renamed "Thompson's Pond." The unique conditions here make it different than any other area of Presque Isle. designated as a federal wildlife management area, so access is limited. You can hike the trails, but the sanctuary area is closed from April to November. Apparently at some points, there are more birds there per capita than anywhere else in Pennsylvania. My worst nightmare come true!

I kid. The birds are very pretty. As long as they keep their distance.

Last Thursday we hiked out to the tip, and since it's past April 1st, we did our part to help protect our natural resources and stayed where the signs told us to. The Ducks Unlimited people have built this nice platform for your viewing pleasure.

There weren't that many birds yet, as it's still early in the migratory season apparently. All the smart birds know it's gauche to be the first to arrive at the party. Plus it's still pretty dang cold here, so why not spend an extra week or two down south?

Anyway, even though I didn't see any birds besides seagulls and Canada geese and a couple of ducks, the light was gorgeous and there was plenty of other interesting stuff to see.