February 5

Last Thursday, Caroline and I returned to the Palos Verdes Peninsula to hike in the 84-acre, Vicente Bluffs Reserve, one of many properties within the Peninsula Land Conservancy. The early afternoon weather was sunny with a temperature of 68 degrees, a mild ocean breeze and dense fog. Leaving the parking lot, we followed an earthen trail north along the bluff where on our left was the seashore, shrouded in a marine layer of fog while on our right was a typical coastal sage scrub landscape. Continuing north, I paused to look down through the haze and listen to the surf while up ahead I could clearly see the top of the dense marine layer as it was shrinking below the bluff, exposing the houses and vegetation on top. Just ahead, I caught a glimpse of a Black Phoebe, perched on top of an evergreen shrub. Still heading north as the fog continued to burn off, I could now see a section of the cliff covered with large swaths of Bluff Buckwheat growing on the windward face, keeping the soil from sliding down. After turning around to retrace our steps, I paused to read one of the trail signs that further described the highlights of this unique natural area. Next, I paused to have a stare down with a resident creature called a Pocket Gopher. This Red Squirrel-size mammal spends most of its life in underground tunnels feeding on plants, starting from the roots. The name “pocket” refers to its large cheek pouches that extend from the side of the mouth back to the shoulders. Also, note the large, amber-colored incisor teeth that continuously grow to accommodate the constant wear and tear from chewing on hard, gritty vegetation. Continuing south, I spotted the colorful blossoms of California Lilac on one of several bushes that had been recently pruned as part of a restoration effort. Approaching the parking area, I paused to observe a Carpenter Bee pollinating a Sage blossom. Finally, we found the car and headed back to Redondo Beach.

Nature my guide

Ocean my host

Marine layer

Blankets the coast

Breaking waves

Rumble and roar

Pounding surf

Hammering shore

Enter the sun

Exit the haze

Majestic cliffs

Sight to amaze

D. DeGraaf