I went birding the other day in Forest Falls, California. I hadn't realized how much snow would be there. I was happy to see this sight of crystals on top of the snow. I don't know if it was frost that had topped off the snow, or if snow can actually look like this (OK, you northerners, fill me in!) I was there because someone had reported 3 Great Horned Owls. Well, I hiked around in the snow for a couple of hours, never saw the owls. I did get some pics, at least! Was a great day, despite my cold toes (was wearing my walking shoes, as I left my snow boots in Edmonton), with one new bird for my list and happy snow shots! 12/22/22 www.sparhawkphotography.com
I will end the series from Morro Bay with a sunset from down at The Rock. This image shows the breakwater with waves breaking over it, and waves coming in on the beach side. It was a very special moment! 12/21/22 www.sparhawkphotography.com
This is just a tiny bit of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, a short drive out of Guadalupe, CA. This dune complex covers an 18 mile stretch of the California coast, and about 22,000 acres. It is said to be possibly the largest and most ecologically significant dune complex on earth. I usually drive out to the ocean, through the dunes, when I am in the area. Sometimes there are great birds on the beach; during spring it is a protected nesting area for the endangered Snowy Plover and Least Terns. 12/20/22 www.sparhawkphotography.com
