Hawk Sighting

While walking today, I heard a raucous squawking and gazed up a dense Redwood tree. Two small birds were the cause of all the noise and I searched for a bird nest. The noise continued and I stopped and looked over by a small water feature. Sure enough there was a magificent Hawk. He or she was eyeing the noisy birds and upon seeing me gracefully swooped off for greener pastures. What a rare treat to see this bird so closeup! Magical moments like these are one of life's blessings.

Native Plants

Living in the coastal mountains of Central California gives us the chance to incorporate native plants into our garden. Plants such as Mahonia aquifolium (Oregon grape) are great as barrier plants and for wildlife. They require little care and have lovely yellow blossoms in April. The blossoms turn into berries that are enjoyed by the birds. Sambucus nigra ( Blue Elderberry) grows wild in the mountains near creeks and also produces berries in the Fall. Our squirrels use the branches as a tree path as they jump from our Birch and Cherry trees to the Elderberry . The Blue Jays love to congregate in the Elderberry and mock the squirrels with their chorus of cawing.