Northern Rough-winged Swallow nesting pair

The Heartwarming and Heartbreaking Story of Billy Gene and Billie Jean, Our Nesting Pair of Northern Rough-winged Swallows

While birding, we typically only get to see a snippet of a bird’s life. In the spring of 2018, however, we had the privilege of observing a pair of Northern Rough-winged Swallows for two months while they nested in our dryer vent. Our keen interest grew into emotional investment as we watched the course of their nesting cycle unfold. But as uplifting as this intimate view was for us, the story ultimately ended in heartbreak. Continue reading “The Heartwarming and Heartbreaking Story of Billy Gene and Billie Jean, Our Nesting Pair of Northern Rough-winged Swallows”

Bohemia Ecological Preserve

Sonoma County Birding: Bohemia Ecological Preserve

We regularly lead bird walks at Bohemia Ecological Preserve – a beautiful 1,000-acre property in Occidental, California owned by LandPaths. Back in March 2017, we participated in LandPaths’ volunteer docent training course for the Preserve, and absolutely fell in love with the place. Continue reading “Sonoma County Birding: Bohemia Ecological Preserve”

Great Blue Heron at Phillips Gulch Falls

Chasing Waterfalls: Phillips Gulch Falls, Salt Point State Park

Last weekend, we checked out Phillips Gulch Falls at Salt Point State Park with our friends Jen and Clark. This seasonal waterfall flows from Phillips Creek directly into the ocean, surrounded by the rocky Sonoma Coast. It was a gorgeous day, but we hoped the falls would be flowing after recent storms. Continue reading “Chasing Waterfalls: Phillips Gulch Falls, Salt Point State Park”