Arryo Hondo Bird walk 3-7-15

Went on a Bird walk yesterday with 20 people and leader Ted Mullins, docent and Birder extraordinaire.  It always amazes me how some people can ID bird just by their call.

 I learned a few things and enjoyed the nature walk in this beautiful place, owned by the Land trust of Santa Barbara. Arroyo Hondo preserve is  open weekends by appointment.  I support the Land Trust, they are saving hundreds of acres to keep unspoiled and undeveloped in Central CA.

A wild Orchid on the trail, near the creek:

Ceanothus, "California Lilac" :

Ted leading our group:

                                                                                

Santa Barbara views up on the "Rivera"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The lighting was unusual with storm clouds over the mountains and sunshine where I was standing.

Beautiful blue Lupines in bloom and red Boganvillas in the background.

 

I had been to a fun gathering, luncheon and book exchange, at a friends house. Great food (salmon, fruit salad, pilaf, cookies and more).  We talked about out books we brought to exchange then a lottery to select our books. I came home with a vintage Allen Ginsburg book, "Howl" from the 1960's.  Looking forward to reading that classic from the "Beat Generation".

 

Driving by the SB Mission I had to pull over and take some pics. Unusual lighting: