Mount Clef Ridge Open Space, Thousand Oaks, California, USA, 10th April 2023
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Mount Clef Ridge Open Space, Thousand Oaks, California, USA, 10th April 2023
Mount Clef Ridge Open Space, Thousand Oaks, California, USA, 10th April 2023
Mount Clef Ridge Open Space, Thousand Oaks, California, USA, 10th April 2023
Crotalus ruber
Orange County, California, USA
A red diamond rattlesnake and lance-leaved dudleya (Dudleya lanceolata) share a rock outcrop as federally threatened coastal California gnatcatchers (Polioptila californica californica) call nearby. This scene is unfolding in a surviving patch of coastal sage scrub habitat that is bounded by multimillion-dollar homes (several in the process of being built).
Coastal sage scrub (CSS) habitats are among the most threatened communities in western North America, and by some estimates only 10% of CSS remains. This is not surprising considering some of the largest metropolitan areas in the U.S. occur in and around CSS habitat.
Red diamond rattlesnakes are the only protected species of rattlesnake in California (Species of Special Concern). They also have the smallest range of any rattlesnake in the state.
Crotalus ruber
Orange County, California, USA
A red diamond rattlesnake and lance-leaved dudleya (Dudleya lanceolata) share a rock outcrop as federally threatened coastal California gnatcatchers (Polioptila californica californica) call nearby. This scene is unfolding in a surviving patch of coastal sage scrub habitat that is bounded by multimillion-dollar homes (several in the process of being built).
Coastal sage scrub (CSS) habitats are among the most threatened communities in western North America, and by some estimates only 10% of CSS remains. This is not surprising considering some of the largest metropolitan areas in the U.S. occur in and around CSS habitat.
Red diamond rattlesnakes are the only protected species of rattlesnake in California (Species of Special Concern). They also have the smallest range of any rattlesnake in the state.
Zoomed in image of young gnatcatcher at the White Point Preserve. EOL.org and CalPhotos submission
Adult male
@ Portola Springs, CA
It was an easy drive up to the top of Baldwin Hills Overlook park. The air was crystal clear after a good rain.
I was after the views but also after the tiny birds I love so much. I didn't have to wait long. Right at the top of the 282 step staircase 2 California Gnatcatchers were busy gleaning insect treats from the chaparral plants. They were round and fluffy and calling to each other. They really don't know how cute they are.
If I could calm myself and focus I might get a usable shot. The next thing I know some dude flailing his arms is standing right between me and the little birds. He had just finished the climb up the steps and was celebrating "Rocky" style.
Here's to another year with good light and unforgettable memories. Warmest wishes.
Taken on April 9, 2022
"California Gnatcatchers have a small range within the United States, giving you a perfect excuse to head to southern California (or to Baja California, Mexico) to go look for one. Within their coastal sage scrub habitat, look for them in gently sloping areas with good cover of California sagebrush. These tiny birds tend to stay tucked in, but their meow will alert you to their presence. Look for movement within the shrub first and soon enough you'll have a California Gnatcatcher in your field of view." allaboutboids
I photographed this individual at Santee Lakes, way up on the boundary of the campground. My first photo'd from there. Santee, CA, USA
Juvenile
Taken on July 19, 2020
A fledgling gnatcatcher on MCAS Miramar is about to be fed by its mamma. I was so happy to see this nest succeed after watching the neighboring pair raise a screeching baby cowbird.
