Biophilia..

Beaver on a North Landing River tributary

In the colder months, I spend time exploring swamps in southern Virginia Beach. I have fewer tours this time of year so there is more time to wander in these wild, wet forests, and the absence of mosquitos, horseflies and snakes allows me to concentrate on observing the strange world around me rather than swatting at bugs and watching for the legless one. 

Biophilia is a modern philosophy that suggests that humans seek connections with nature and that time spent in nature benefits us both physically and mentally. There is more to it, but in essence, connecting with nature is good for the spirit and body. The term is modern, but the idea is not. Over a century ago, John Muir encouraged people to get out into nature and to let nature's peace “flow into you as sunshine flows into trees."

For several months, I have seen signs of a beaver in a swamp just minutes from my house. I have been searching for the beaver and his lodge, with no success until yesterday. After retrieving a trail camera I had hidden in the swamp, I found him sleeping on the creek bank as I paddled towards my pickup. The beaver slid unhurriedly into the cold, dark water and kept me company for well over twenty minutes. At one point, he climbed back onto the shore and sat quietly, probably wondering what that irritating clicking noise could be that was coming from the black box in my hands. Eventually, he swam off in the opposite direction of my truck. 

Schedule your ecotour with Moore To See Photo Expeditions to explore this environmental wonderland.