This scoter was photographed off the Avila Beach Pier. Although they like riding the surf, they also hang out in quiet waters.
This close up view of the Surf Scoter shows the strange bill it has. The black "spot" on the colorful bill is actually a hole, which allows water to flow through when diving in surf.
On a visit up the California coast to Morro Bay and beyond, the green hillsides were amazing. Early and frequent rains this winter seem to be ending a several year long drought. This rural scene was photographed just east of Santa Maria, CA, off highway 166. A Red-tailed hawk flew by just as I was about to leave.
