Symbols of Spring have been growing over the last 2 weeks.
For me, the daily return of the Mountain Quail is a sure sign that Spring is here. These birds are highly elusive as they go up and down the mountain slopes and they have been missing from our yard for months. Not anymore! The male announces their early morning arrival with a call that carries through the forest.
Spring migration is full of surprises. Recently, I saw a Common Loon, a rare visitor to Lake Hemet, on a "rest" day before he continued his journey northward for the summer.
Being at the right place at the right time makes it possible to get a glimpse of birds that are passing through and/or that spend most of their time hiding in open grasslands like the Lark Sparrow, Horned Lark and Western Meadowlark.
For most people, lizards aren't a symbol of spring but since we live in lizard country, it is for me. With the recent warm, sunny days, colorful lizards like this Western Fence lizard have been showing their impressive colors during their pushup display. I discovered that a pair of Alligator lizards are living under our wood pile and mating was on their agenda.
Blooming flowers and butterflies are iconic symbols of Spring. You need to look at details when naming a bird or butterfly. This Anise Swallowtail on the Lilac looks almost identical to the Western Tiger Swallowtail.
The last couple of weeks, I've seen lots of different birds like these House Finches carrying nesting material to their new homes.
Spring migration is exciting because each day you have the chance to see a new, brightly colored bird either on its way to its breeding ground or to set up a summer home nearby. Today, I saw my first Bulloch's Oriole of the season for a moment before it disappeared into the sage.
Along with the oriole, the king of birds has returned! Six Western Kingbirds arrived for the summer exactly one year to the day as last years' arrival! Although one last snowy blast is predicted for tonight up here in the mountains, Spring is here!
