California Woodpeckers

Every now and again I’ll spot a woodpecker around here, usually high up on a tree happily drilling away. I’ve been frustrated by my inability to photograph one of these gorgeous birds; but last week I finally got lucky. I had to refer to my Field Guide to Western Birds, but I’m pretty sure these are a couple of male […]

Read More →

The little things

As much as I love capturing big scenic landscapes with my camera, I also can’t resist getting down on the ground for smaller subjects! An unexpected turtle: Another secret caterpillar spot: Snails on the sidewalk… …or in the state park. A sunbathing butterfly: And some rattlesnake grass (Briza maxima):

Read More →

WPC: Friend

The Daily Post Weekly Photo Challenge for the week of May 31, 2017. This week, share an image of a friend. According to the San Diego Zoo, “Monkeys also express affection and make peace with others by grooming each other. Although grooming helps monkeys keep their fur clean of dirt, dead skin, and parasites, it also helps them build and […]

Read More →

Mantis photobomb

As I marched along the deserted horse trail, a flash of bright red caught my eye. The play of shadows on the leaves, backlit by morning sun, was so irresistible I decided that I didn’t mind standing in the dried weeds to capture the shot. It wasn’t until I checked out the images on my laptop that I saw the […]

Read More →

Return to Mississippi Bar

As summer approaches and the daytime temperatures in the Sacramento Valley start to soar, it’s time for me to practice some serious discipline — rolling out of bed while it’s still dark outside, downing a quick protein shake and a piece of fruit, and heading outdoors while the air is still cool enough to make me shiver. It’s much easier said than done — although […]

Read More →