It's always great to spend time at Anza Borrego Desert State Park (well, maybe not the Summer). However, sometimes, it's extraordinary! Sightings in Nature cannot be staged so when you get a glimpse of something special, it's not to be taken for granted. This entry is about some of those unexpected, fantastic sightings.
Spring migration of Swainson's Hawks is occurring now. Volunteers are on this mound every morning from Feb - April to count these birds of prey. The total average amount is 7-8,000 per season.
The hawks arrive in the desert valley at night to roost, usually in a date farm near this grape farmer sculpture.
The next morning as the breeze and thermals pick up, the hawks catch the wind and continue their journey northward to Canada.
Some days only a handful show up. On this day, we were lucky. Two hundred of these beautiful birds flew directly over our heads. I was torn between helping with the count and taking photos. Neither was too successful because I was divided. It was amazing! You can follow the migration daily at borregohawkwatch.blogspot.com
Recent rain brought much needed water to the desert. The last time I hiked on this trail, the creek from the oasis was mostly dried up. Today there was flowing water.
Camouflaged against a boulder near the oasis, we discovered this California Treefrog. Imagine trying to survive in a desert oasis as this little guy is doing.
Hiking through an area with Indigo plants, I saw a couple of hungry long eared Jack Rabbits.
By far, the highlight of this day was the arrival of the Bighorn Sheep. They came down to the flowing water to eat and drink when we had given up hope that we would see them. Then we had the biggest surprise.....
Looking down from a rocky ledge high on the cliff were 6 lambs. Wow! It was truly a gift to see them!!
Tread lightly and keep your eyes and ears open. Inspirational moments occur when you least expect them.
Tread lightly and keep your eyes and ears open. Inspirational moments occur when you least expect them.
