A Four-Wren Day in Morro Bay

We recently stopped in Morro Bay (San Luis Obispo County) for a day and enjoyed the birds and critters. Let’s set the scene… As we strolled the Embarcadero, barking California sea lions and squawking Western Gulls competed for “Most Enthusiastic Welcoming Committee,” while sea otters lounged lazily in the distance. Continue reading “A Four-Wren Day in Morro Bay”

Golden-crowned Sparrow perched on a branch with green lichen with gray background

2021 Christmas Bird Count #2: Santa Rosa (12/19/21)

Last Sunday was Redwood Region Ornithological Society’s annual Santa Rosa Christmas Bird Count. The day was cold and overcast, but thankfully without rain.
 
We began at sunrise at one edge of our territory, deep along a forested stretch of St. Helena Road. At first, we could only hear the water rushing through Mark West Creek — but our ears pricked up at the sound of our first bird of the day — two Pacific Wrens calling loudly. Continue reading “2021 Christmas Bird Count #2: Santa Rosa (12/19/21)”

Three American White Pelicans swimming in water together

Bodega Bay and a Bug Buffet

Last Friday during a break in the much-welcomed week of rains, we enjoyed a gorgeous day in Bodega Bay.
 
At Campbell Cove, we discovered several species appeared to be attracted to a particular coyote brush root. As we observed for a bit, it became obvious why — a constant stream of tiny, long-winged insects emanated from the root — a bountiful bug buffet for the birds!
 
Watch below as an Audubon’s Yellow-rumped Warbler and a Fox Sparrow vie for a spot at the table. Continue reading “Bodega Bay and a Bug Buffet”

Lesser Goldfinch perched on skinny willow branch

February Birds

Though the area rain levels were disappointingly low in February, the flipside was an abundance of spring-like birding days. With the relaxation of shelter-in-place restrictions and beautiful weather beckoning us, we made it out several times to enjoy Sonoma County’s bird life. Continue reading “February Birds”