Bob Harrison came across these two Turkey Vultures with their wings extended along old Highway One near Westport. Fog shrouded the air.
Turkey Vultures extend their wings to dry them in the sun, and to have the sun burn off any microbes from the carrion they eat. I suppose some rays must penetrate the fog. It's a startling sighting, to be sure!
Thanks to Bob for allowing me to share his photo with you here. We are waiting for another welcome rainstorm tonight.
River Otters are year round residents of the Mendonoma Coast. They cannot abide pollution so their presence speaks to the quality of our waters. Marilyn Green photographed this one on the beach, apparently eat crabs that were molting.
The River Otter appeared to be playing in the waves, or perhaps it was simply looking for food.
Nancy Jewhurst spotted this otter on the bluffs while she was walking a trail on The Sea Ranch. Yes, River Otters can be found in the ocean, in rivers and creeks, and on land.
Thanks to Marilyn and Nancy for allowing me to share their photos with you here.
Peter Baye found this pair mating on his deck near Annapolis in early October. Seems late to be mating, but who am I to judge!
Here is a photo taken by Robert Scarola to show you what they look like with wings extended.
Thanks to Peter and Robert for allowing me to share their photos with you here.
A beautiful native plant, Hooker's Evening Primrose, is blooming rather late this year. Amy Ruegg found this plant near Shell Beach on The Sea Ranch.
The plant has formed seed capsules, which Pine Siskins love to feed on. Here's a photo of the entire plant Amy found, and a close up of the flower.
Thanks to Amy for allowing me to share her photos with you here.
Don Spear photographed the crescent Moon with Venus below, with a few clouds to add atmosphere.
Today we are having some much-needed rain.
Thanks to Don for allowing me to share his photo with you here.