When I first noticed these yellow-and-white irises growing wild at Lake Berryessa’s Steele Canyon Campground, I had no idea that ladybugs had already moved in and were making themselves at home. It was difficult for me to get close enough to see precisely how many of these bright red insects were there; but I did also spot at least a […]
I didn’t spend too much time in the small garden abutting the redwoods of the Jack Hume Grove in Vacaville. The flowers were few, and the sun was very bright when I arrived, not long after 12 noon. But a few colorful autumn blooms did catch my eye as well as the attention of some insects. Sadly, although there were […]
Due to the drought and the heat, large areas around Folsom Lake are already dry and full of brittle weeds; but on my visit to New York Creek a few days ago I came across a small feeder creek that was still very green and full of animal life. In the morning shade of an old oak, with a cool […]
Sometimes I have to look really hard to find the beauty that inspires me to use my camera. And other times, the beauty just pops up at me unexpectedly, where I least expect it. Like the oleanders I had just trimmed and tossed into the green waste bin. Or the late afternoon sun glowing orange on the side of a […]
One reason I enjoy staying at the Fort Ross Lodge is the open field between the motel buildings and the ocean cliffs. There is plenty of room to wander and enjoy the view without risking your life along the narrow, winding road that is Highway 1. Our previous stay here was back in November 2020, and while the natural area […]
It took me quite a few tries and several trips to the river before I finally managed to capture one of these gorgeous butterflies with my camera. It seemed like the Western Tiger Swallowtails were happily taunting me, always turning up after I had put my camera away, hovering around just out of reach as I fumbled to get my […]
Well, after a quick day trip up to Caples Lake yesterday, I can now report that I know where all the most bloodthirsty mosquitoes are hanging out. I foolishly forgot to take my insect repellant along, and those tiny flying vampires feasted heavily on me. There were other hungry insects along the lake shore as well — but luckily these […]
My hike yesterday took me through some truly lovely countryside, along the base of foothills near Highway 49 and later skirting the banks of the South Fork of the American River. I had so many things to look at — but near the river I kept encountering butterflies of more variety than I’m used to seeing. They can be very […]