Sightings

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David McFarland noticed these unusual clouds several weeks ago. They are called High Sheets, or alto stratus clouds.

Dramatic cloud formation, called High Sheets, by David McFarland (Large)

Today we have strong winds, and white puffy clouds (unscientific description!) scurrying across the sky. In the past six days we have had seven inches of rain at our place in Anchor Bay. And lots more coming our way. Goodbye drought - don't let the door hit you on the way out!

Thanks to David for allowing me to share his photo with you here.

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Glenn and Kalynn Funk noticed this cute little owl in an owl nesting box they put up in their Anchor Bay property some years ago. Finally, they have attracted a Western Screech-Owl. Craig Tooley went over and captured a photo of the little owl.

A Western Screech-owl in a nesting box by Craig Tooley Western Screech-Owl finds a home by Craig Tooley

We hope this owl will attract a mate and nest in the Funk's box. What fun that would be!

This owl has a bird-like call, not screech-like at all. To hear it, here is a link to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Western_Screech-Owl/sounds

Thanks to Craig for allowing me to share his photo with you here. To see much more of Craig's nature photography, here is his website: www.ruffimage.com

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Margaret Lindgren spotted Western Dog Violets blooming on the southern portion of the Point Arena-Stornetta Lands. They are so beautiful and a real treat to find.

Western Dog Violets by Margaret Lindgren

This wildflower is found in moist meadows. It has medicinal qualities - a tea made from dried leaves purportedly treats stomach distress. And the flowers are used to make purple dye. I'd rather just look at this little beauty in its natural abode.

A big storm is hitting the coast - lots of rain and wind. It's an exciting time to be here, experiencing the full force of the storm.

Thanks to Margaret for allowing me to share her photo with  you here. To learn of Margaret's hiking/tour business, here is her website: http://www.unbeatenpathtours.com/index.html

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Rick and Teresa Denniston took a walk at Gualala Point Regional Park. The wave were crashing quite dramatically.

Crashing waves at Gualala Point Regional Park by Rick Deniston

We are waiting for a big storm to hit. Residents have stocked up on food and firewood, just in case. Winds of 40 miles an hour are predicted and that can mean power outages. We need the rain so we say, "Bring it on, Mother Nature!"

Thanks to Rick and Teresa for allowing me to share their photo with you here.

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Shirley Mitchell found this beautiful pond reflecting the blue sky - a forest gift!

A pond in the forest reflects the sky by Shirley Mitchell

You never know what you will find when you get out in nature.

Thanks to Shirley for allowing me to share her photo with you here.