If you love birds, the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona is just the spot. It is a 110 acre wetland and wildlife sanctuary that was developed 25 years ago after the Town of Gilbert made a commitment to reuse 100% of its effluent water. The result is 7 ponds, numerous walking trails, a fishing lake, viewing blinds, an observatory, and dedicated play areas. The riparian area that has been created is a wonderful place to see and appreciate a wide variety of avian life from tiny warblers to shore birds and even seabirds like the American White Pelican. The floating boardwalk that crosses Water Ranch Lake offers opportunities to see and photograph water fowl. This is an American Widgeon, seen preening in early morning light from the floating boardwalk.