When in San Diego earlier this week, I noticed (could hardly ignore) the fact that huge numbers of Elegant Terns had arrived and were congregating on mudflats and beach areas. They made a lot of noise, and from time to time would flush, all flying in a chaotic mass. This shows what such a flight looked like. This species mostly breeds in Mexico and Baja California, but also nest in the San Diego area, and spend the spring and summer in the surrounding areas and up the coast. 4/24/21 www.sparhawkphotography.com
This is a White-faced Ibis, showing the white breeding colors, and turning her eggs before settling back down on the nest to continue incubating them. That long curved bill is handy for more than just digging in the mud for food! This nesting bird was photographed in the Escondido area, north of San Diego, California. 3/29/21 www.sparhawkphotography.com
This is a close view of a Brandt's Cormorant, from the breeding colony on the cliffs by La Jolla Cove, in the San Diego area. During breeding, the skin patch under the bill is bright blue, and is used in mating displays. This is the more common cormorant in that area--nearer home, the Double-crested Cormorant is what I usually see. 3/28/21 www.sparhawkphotography.com
