February 20

This morning we are hiking in Dominguez Gap Wetlands- a narrow, 30-acre parcel of land surrounded by a densely populated urban jungle of houses, factories and traffic noise. Water from the LA River and local runoff are routed through these wetlands to naturally reduce pollutants such as fecal coliform and heavy metals while sustaining a year-round habitat for plants and native wildlife. Under overcast skies and temperatures in the mid 50’s, I immediately spot a perching Northern Mockingbird and an immature, Red-shouldered Hawk with its yellow cere above the beak. Over much of eastern North America, these hawks have become uncommon, sticking closely to the remaining forests. Populations in Florida and California are often more visible, perhaps adapting better to open habitats. These hawks return to the same nesting territory year after year. One Red-shouldered Hawk occupied a territory in southern California for 16 consecutive years. Next to the trail ahead, I notice the yellow blossoms of Bladderpod and the white blossoms of Greenspot Nightshade. Like most nightshades, the leaves are poisonous, but the small, spherical fruits (stock photo) are edible. Native Americans used the juice of the berries medicinally and as dye for tattooing. Also referred to as Douglas Nightshade, it is named in honor of David Douglas, a Scottish botanist who collected many plants on the West Coast in the early 19th century. Looking out on the open water, I spot a single American Coot and a mating pair of Northern Shovelers. Other blossoms that catch my eye are from Black Sage and White Sage. While Black Sage is often used in cooking, White Sage is more commonly used in incense rituals and as a fragrant plant. This is because it exudes a much more intense, tart and resinous scent. At the southernmost end of the wetlands, we cross an earthen dam and begin walking back on the opposite side where I spot a male Anna’s Hummingbird perched in the underbrush. Up ahead, I observe the red blossoms of Bottle Brush swaying in the breeze. Next, I pause to admire two hunting Great Blue Herons, one standing on some rocks and the other standing among the reeds. Suddenly, a familiar sound is heard as a pair of Canada Geese fly overhead. Continuing north toward the car, I catch a quick glimpse of a swimming Pied-billed Grebe just before it dives under water. Finally, near the car, I spot one of a half-dozen encampments occupied by homeless people.

 

Mother Earth

Nature the host

Winter wonderland

Pacific coast

Flowers to flaunt.

Birds to boast.

Winter wonderland

Pacific coast

Azure skies

Cover most

Winter wonderland

Pacific coast

 

D. DeGraaf