The sun finally came out, so I went hiking in nearby San Timoteo Canyon, binoculars and camera around my neck. Although it wasn't a spectacular birding day, I did get a few shots of this male Hooded Merganser which was swimming in the pond at the west end of the trail. He was a little skittish, spending more time hidden in the cattails than out with the other ducks. 2/12/19 Judith Sparhawk
This heron was photographed at the Tijuana Estuary. At one time it was an amazing thing to see a Yellow-crowned Night Heron in California. Several years ago a few appeared in this area, nesting in the trees adjacent to the estuary Visitor's Center. After several years of continued breeding, the herons are seen various places in the San Diego area. This is an adult, showing the yellow crown--I saw a few immatures and juveniles with their less defined plumage.
This heron was standing very still at the edge of the water of the San Diego River, and suddenly spotted this yummy crab (?), grabbed it, and had a tasty breakfast.
