At the Water's Edge

When you stand on top of the peaks overlooking Idyllwild or if you fly overhead in a plane, you can see why Lake Hemet is an important place for birds. There are very few nearby large bodies of water.

Everytime I go there, the water's edge seems a little further from shore. Hopefully, that trend will change with the Winter rain and snow that we are all awaiting.

 When I go birding without any expectations, I'm more open to unexpected surprises.

 Today was one of those days. The forests in Idyllwild and up in the high country have a huge number of Band-tailed Pigeons this year. We have resident pigeons but the influx is likely from the Pacific Northwest.

I was in for a huge surprise when I saw over 200 Band-tailed Pigeons perched on the water's edge at Lake Hemet. I suspect they sensed an upcoming change in the weather and decided to leave the mountains and continue their migration southward. I returned later in the day in hopes of capturing their audible winged flight but they had already disappeared.

 Today, I also "stalked" a Rock Wren along the boulder lined shore hoping to get a photo but it was incredibly difficult since he was constantly bobbing and moving rock to rock.

On my return trip, however, when I was no longer searching for this little bird, I heard a new call. When I looked to the source, I discovered the wren that I had been pursuing was perched on a nearby rock.

 I plopped myself down and starting taking photos. Unexpected surprises are the best!

From Coast to Coast and a Jump to Hawaii - Part 2

The mountains in the southeast are not as tall as those found in the southwest but they have something that is hard to find in the southwest...waterfalls! There's nothing like sitting next to a waterfall watching the path of the water as it cascades down the boulders and rocks.

 Thanks  Beth and Lisa for sharing these colorful photos of the beautiful mountains in the southeast.

 

 

 

Inspiring scenery fills the state of Arizona. These images are from the Grand Canyon, Madeira Canyon and Sedona.

 This idyllic spot is south of Carmel along the Pacific coast. Thanks Karen and Georgann for these absolutely stunning photos from these magnificent places.

This photo is of Reed's Meadow in the San Jacinto Wilderness. It was taken a week before the Mountain Fire of 2013 blazed through this area erasing the life and beauty that existed here. It is a stark reminder to never take loved ones and special places in nature for granted. Thanks, Rick!

Spend time with a little one whenever possible!! They will remind you of the wonders that surround you through their inquisitive nature.

 Be sure to take time to play outside no matter what the weather and keep that adventurous spirit alive!
Nigel and Kristin are masters at it! If you need a kayak instructor or guide to a barrier island, they are the best! Their next destination...Nepal.

Humahumanukunukuapaua'a

Don't forget the ocean is full of magnificent life as well! Thanks Dave for these gorgeous underwater photos of little fish with really big names in Hawaii!

 

Wishing you all a Thanksgiving full of simple blessings! Thanks to everyone who shared their photos!!

From Sweden to Tanzania - Part 1

 Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate our blessings. We asked our friends and family to share some photos that celebrate the gifts found in nature. We begin overseas.

 Sweden is an absolutely beautiful country. Our friend, Per, shared some of his photos with us for this celebration of Nature blog.

Swedish Hut in Countryside

 

Swedish Great Spotted Woodpecker

 Swedish Peacock Butterfly

These  beautiful photos were taken by Jan Carl while visiting the island of Mallorca off the coast of Spain. It is a popular place for Swedes and others who discover this sunny, warm destination.

The following photos are from my young, talented friend, Luke who was fortunate to take a trip to Tanzania this summer with his Dad. These are just a few of the amazing photos he shared with me from his incredible trip!

Lilac Roller

Hartlaub's Turaco

Crowned Cranes

  

Definitely not an average day when a teen elephant crosses the road!

Sunset in the Serengeti. Thanks Luke!

Hiking in the Mountain Wilderness

Views from the mountain trails continue to inspire no matter how many times they are hiked partly because there is always something new to discover.

 Familiar landmarks like Tahquitz Rock look completely different from new angles.

One day this week, the marine layer was extremely thick and extensive. Lake Hemet and Garner Valley disappeared under the blanket completely.

The far reaching views from Tahquitz Peak were replaced with a tumultuous sea of clouds and mountain islands.

 A recent change to the forest in the last couple of weeks has been the arrival of hundreds of Band-tailed Pigeons. Our resident pigeons have been temporarily joined by their relatives from the northwest. Their presence cannot be missed. Even if you don't see them fly overhead, you will hear the sound of their wings and bodies zooming past at top speed.

 The most exciting discovery for me this week has been the sighting of four Lewis's Woodpeckers. It is highly unusual for them to be in our mountains. I couldn't take my eyes off of these beautiful rose-colored birds eating insects and storing acorns.

 The other changes in the wilderness are like changes in forests across the country. Pine cones and acorns are covering the trails and the leaves are changing colors before their final drop to the ground. 

"Nature never disappoints...there is always something new to learn."

~Lisa Hurt