January 28

After an hour drive, having “Google Gal” guide us through rush hour traffic, Caroline and I arrive safely at Laguna Lake, a 7-acre, freshwater habitat in the heart of Fullerton, California. Beautiful, sunny weather greets us as we begin our ¾ mile hike around the perimeter of this man-made basin. Besides us, we share the groomed, earthen trail with other hikers, dog walkers, joggers and baby strollers. Near shore, we observe a male Ring-necked Duck diving for food that includes tiny invertebrates and pondweed. These ducks will overwinter here and then migrate north to their summer breeding grounds in Canada. Speaking of ducks, I’m pleased to see a sign posted discouraging humans from feeding these waterfowl. Something my hometown of Alma needs in their park on the Pine River. Along the way, I admire the color and texture of a mature Eucalyptus tree trunk that sheds its bark annually. Also, just off the trail, the lovely blossoms of a Bougainvillea vine and Wood Sorrel plant catch my eye. Turning again toward the water, I pause to watch an adult Coot swimming near shore followed by a juvenile. Far away on the eastern horizon, I catch a glimpse of snow-covered Mt. Baldy, 30 miles away and 4000 ft. high. Continuing to circle the lake, it was easy to spot domestic ducks (Peking) mingling with the wild ones. Not surprisingly, I also spot some hybrids, called “Mule Ducks” that are sterile offspring of domestic ducks that mated with Mallards. Gazing skyward, I see Eucalyptus leaves being swayed by a refreshing breeze. Still looking up, I notice the leaves and pods of a Jacaranda (Fern) tree that displays lovely lavender flowers in the spring and summer. Nearby, I observe the pink blossoms of Wood Mint. Back to the water, my eyes catch a solitary Cormorant perching on a submerged rock. Walking back to the car, I’m impressed about this place where living space and freshwater are in great demand, and yet a small portion of both have been set aside for the co-existence of wildlife and humans.

Late January

Snowless scene

Flowers bloom

Hills of green

An iceless lake

Cloudless sky

Lizards run

Ospreys fly

Mother Nature

Here with me

Far from home

Beside the sea

D. DeGraaf