The City of Lake Elmo in Minnesota purchased 254 acres of land in order to keep out new housing developments in the area. The result is Sunfish Lake Park, a “regionally significant ecological area” including a 17 acre prairie restoration project. The park is home to over 13 species of birds with declining populations, deer and other small animals. We came across a deer staring right at us as we strolled through the woods.

The park is lush and green this time of year.

We were looking for the Sunfish Lake and it did not disappoint.

On the way back we stumbled on this nest that must have fallen from a tree.

The Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center is also on the grounds and includes this oversized birdhouse.