California Quail Return!

 First a pair and now two, these busy birds criss-cross our yard several times a day.  The males have taken a liking to perch and keep guard on the back of the adirondack chair that was left out on the lawn a day or so ago.  The females peck their way across the lawn and into the flower beds.  I believe they are the culprits who have been scratching away the soil from around my two little tomato plants.  I don't mind because they're endlessly amusing.


Last year, a pair of adults and ten little babies suddenly appeared out of the hedgerow.  All the wee ones survived to full size and I guess they are starting to come back now.

Right outside the dining room window, one of the females got real involved in scratching out a nest size depression, under the protection of the Oregon grape while the male kept guard.  I thought perhaps she would lay some eggs, but she disappeared into the thicket.


That would have been a nice sight to balance out the views of eagles killing seagulls lately!

Poor ol' gull

Seen on Fishermen's Wharf, Monterey, CA



Have you ever bitten off more than you could chew?

Beach Bums

What a crowd on this Lincoln City, Oregon beach! The gulls were enjoying the late afternoon sun as much as I, after a long car ride. Must recommend the wonderful Black Fish Cafe right on Highway 101.