It’s Just Ducky Here in Powell River
You know about smart phones, smart tv’s and perhaps you know about smart ovens. But in Powell River we have smart ducks. With the rest of our country deep into winter, with still months to go, it is a wonder why we don’t have more visitors this time of year. It’s spring here. Well, not officially of course. But look around. It’s green. Small flowers are bursting out of the ground. The sun is shining, the days are getting longer – albeit b
y only minutes a day. It feels good to step outside. This cannot be said for most of our Canadian neighbours.
The waterfowl seems to already know this. A recent visit to Cranberry Lake revealed some seasonal visitors. Naturally, the grand Canadian Geese are always in attendance but there are more Mallards than usual as they head here from the colder inland lakes. Smart Ducks.
The very pretty Buffleheads were spotted on the lake, with their big heads and striking colouration. They too have come here for the winter from the Interior. The Common Mergansers, a bit of an odd couple her with that crazy punk haircut and he looks like a small Loon, are also here in greater numbers until sometime in March.
Now is the time to get outdoors for a walk around our lakes, breathe in the fresh air while giving a nod to the ducks that are visiting Powell River for 
the winter months. More of our Canadian friends should be so smart.
Spot a cool duck on your hikes? Let us know!
Julie
Hi Julie, I just discovered your web site and have read it with great interest. I have also subscribed. It is my plan/dream to move to Powell River a year from this summer. All I have to do is convince my wife Lois and get her on board. We are currently living in Kingston, Ontario (very cold here right now) where I am a recently retired teacher and she is also an educator who will be retiring soon. We love the mountains and the ocean, the outdoors; hiking, canoeing, kayaking, camping and bird watching. I have lived in Toronto. Sudbury, Vancouver, St. John’s Newfoundland and for the last long while, Kingston. Although I have travelled quite a bit in B.C. I have not actually been to Powell River which explains the odd reactions I get when I go on and on about moving there.
We are planing a trip there this summer, as well as visiting my daughter in Tofino. I have to say it seems like a place tailor made for us. Neither of us will require a job as we will be retired so that will not be a problem. Finding a house of course will be a big concern but real-estate seems to be favourable for us to sell here and buy there and there seems to be some very interesting communities around Powell River.
Not sure why I am unloading all of this except you seem like a kindred spirit and you are a great booster of PR and the Sunshine Coast. I will continue to follow your site and hopefully your footsteps too before long. I would appreciate any encouraging ideas or helpful comments you may have to pass on to Lois and to keep my dreaming alive.
Yours, Howard Bridger (Shivering in the East)
Hello Howard,
So nice to hear from you. I am glad you are planning a scouting trip to Powell River! That is the best way to check out a place before the big move, although I admit my husband and I were only here for an afternoon when we decided. We have also lived many places, born & raised in Ontario, Vancouver, St. John’s too, and lastly Calgary. You are going to love Powell River. We have been here almost 2 years now and love it. Of course, a big move… as you know… takes some time for transition to the new community. The scenery here surrounds you, and your hiking and outdoor activities are at your door step, there are some fabulous restaurants in town, and there is always lots to do. Oh, and you can still buy a house with a view without being a millionaire! I am glad you have subscribed to our website, so we can keep you in the loop! Best wishes from Pow Town, Julie