In this section, we will be highlighting different features, birds and/or users of Frank Lake. This month’s highlight is:
Maureen Hills-Urbat – Professional Bird Photographer
About Maureen
I have been a photographer for most of my life and a serious bird photographer for the past 10 years. I have won several photography competitions and my work has been published in magazines and local natural history guides. I have also had the opportunity to present my work with seniors’ groups. My goal is to be able to use my pictures for educational purposes and to help foster awareness and interest in our local birds.
Why do I visit Frank Lake?
My Dad (Dr. Len Hills) had a strong interest in natural history and as a kid I went on many Sunday drives in the late 1960’s and early 70’s exploring the Calgary region for wildlife, plants and birds. We had many adventures at Frank Lake and a lot of my earliest birding memories are here.
Why do I keep returning to Frank Lake?
The high diversity of birds and for sentimental reasons Frank Lake continues to be a destination for my husband and myself. As a photographer the diversity and the abundance of birds that can reliably be seen there is a draw. Every trip is a new adventure. The highlights are seeing White-faced Ibis and the challenge of trying to glimpse a noisy but elusive Marsh Wren. Both of these species are often found by wandering east of the blind and if lucky right at the blind. It is very difficult to pick a favorite bird or
sighting as every trip is different but one that stands out is seeing Black-bellied Plovers.
Images taken by Maureen Hills-Urbat at Frank Lake:
