March 26

Over the past few months, while wintering in the densely populated landscape of Southern California, I have seen several examples of how urbanites set aside space for wildlife habitat. On a pleasant day in the neighboring town of Manhattan Beach, I’m enjoying a leisurely midday hike in 18-acre, Polliwog Park. Entering a section of the park, called Botanical Gardens, I pause and face the sun as it shines through the branches of a Sycamore tree that is beginning to sprout new leaves. In a few hours, this vital source of light and heat, we humans take for granted, will cross the celestial equator to officially begin the spring season in the northern hemisphere. Proceeding along the meandering brick path, the orange blossoms of California poppies catch my eye. In addition, the sweet smell of Purple Sage fills the air as large patches of blossoms attract a Monarch and hovering Honey Bees. In a nearby tree, a Yellow-rumped Warbler perches on a branch. Other blossoming herbs seen include: Mexican Sage, Hummingbird Sage and Rosemary. Glancing skyward, I spot the yellowish male cones hanging from an Aleppo Pine tree, a drought tolerant conifer common in this region. Just ahead, I watch a young family enjoying a noontime stroll. After scanning the garden for the last time, I head across a mowed area down to the edge of a 3-acre pond where I notice a few resting Widgeons while out on the water, a Coot and a gathering of gulls. Walking along the edge, I pause as a single 8-inch, Red-eared Slider swims in the murky water while near the far shore, a row of them bask in the sun. Making my way back to the car, I think about the hikes I’ve taken in Michigan over the years on the Vernal Equinox and the limited number of seasonal signs that I recall. Perhaps, the shrill of a Redwing Blackbird or a single green sprout of Skunk Cabbage breaking through the snow-covered river flats.

Orb of the heavens 

Sun of the sky

Giver of life

None can deny

Orb of the heavens

Ascending star

Half way there

Your journey so far

Orb of the heavens

Warming sphere

Welcome to spring

Glad you’re here

D. DeGraaf