Right Around the River Blog

A Richmond Safari

Post Date: 09-14-2010

Often I stroll along the Rocketts Landing Marina enjoying the wonderful views of Richmond's downtown skyline and the beauty of the James River, but I am the first to admit that I rarely think of, or appreciate, the unique wildlife and individual natural eco-communities existing within this same environment along the river. This past week, I decided it was time to take advantage of the beautiful outdoor opportunities around me. It was time to explore.

With a little research and suggestions from my Rocketts friends, I found the “legendary” Captain Mike Ostrander, a Richmond-area fishing guide and wildlife expert, who has been leading fishing and eagle tours along the James for the past 10 years. After spending some time on his website, discoverthejames.com, I enthusiastically booked one of his two-hour wildlife tours. Little did I know that by the time my tour was over, I would learn to view my neighborhood and the James River in an entirely different light – one of extremerespect.

On a crisp, fall-like morning, I met Captain Mike just before dawn at a dock just south of Rocketts Landing, literally right around the river (no pun intended). He politely introduced himself, offered me some coffee, a warmer coat and an extra pair of binoculars. We stepped on his pontoon boat, The Discovery Barrage, and we pushed off down the river. The fog was still dancing along the water and the sun was creeping up from behind the trees when I caught my first glimpse of one of the most amazing creatures. It glided through an opening in the trees and headed directly for our boat. “That’s Bandit,” Captain Mike whispered.

This large, yet elegant bird landed on a floating log just a few feet from where we sat. I shivered. It was a bald eagle. I did not expect to witness the majestic, almost mythical appearance of a “wild” animal so close up. I felt like I was on a safari within an arm’s reach of touching an iconic American symbol.

Captain Mike could see my amazement and went on to explain the mannerisms and personality of the bird. He also shared information that I would have never expected. Bald eagles are actually “residents” of the James and stay in their defined “territories” along the river year round. They always have a designated, life-longmate. Bandit’s mate was Rocky and they were preparing to build their nest, Captain Mike later told me.

In awe of all the wonderful birds and jumping fish during the tour, I asked Captain Mike if he could pick one thing he loved most about hosting these tours. It did not take Captain Mike very long to answer. “Every day, each trip is different,” he said. “There is such a diversity of wildlife surrounding the James. From albino squirrels and white-tailed deer to Atlantic sturgeon and wild turkey…you never know what you are going to see. How cool is that?” I had to agree with Captain Mike. It was “cool.”

He went on to talk candidly about his journey along the James. “It has been about personal discovery and developing a true connection with nature. The excitement of learning something new about the habitat, especially finding another pair of resident eagles, drives me to do this the rest of my life…an added bonus, all of this is in about a five-mile stretch of the James River close to downtown. Once again, how cool is that?”

I could not help but share Captain Mike’s enthusiasm and catch his contagious, child-like excitement at every river turn and animal he was able to show me. For someone who explores this part of the River several times a week, he acted as if each thing he showed me was a new discovery.

His curious outlook and feelings toward the James and its natural offerings were inspiring. In fact, the tour has motivated me to walk along the Rocketts marina and not just admire the great skyline of Richmond, but to really appreciate and embrace the living creatures that call the River their home, and for that, I am truly grateful.

Thank you, Captain Mike.

Additional Note: Captain Mike will be presenting his wildlife photos and talking about his eagle tours and discoveries on November 17, 2010 at the Science Museum of Virginia. Stay tuned to our Facebook (hyperlink to our Facebook page) page for more information about Captain Mike and his presentation.