With weather like this, and longer days, I've been outside more.
Which means more photo phun.
Western kingbird, same place. Always beautiful. That stunning yellow underbelly knocks me out.
White-faced ibis (Merced NWR).
Not always the most helpful name, but what a ridiculously regal bird.
Husband spotted this creature & knew I'd want to see it.
Holy. Wow.
I love that face.
Learned from Twitter friends (@ta_wheeler) and bugguide.net
that though it looks like a crane fly, it's not a fly at all
(flies have 2 wings, this creature has 4).
and the only representative of its genus among the Pacific states.
I am so glad I got to meet it.
Last, but not least, the first confirmed painted lady I've seen here this year.
I took this photo because twitter-folks (@ErikRunquist @eButterfly_org)
are interested in tracking their migration.
And I'm so very glad I was therefore motivated to encounter this charming animal.
I hope spring is springing forth merrily (northern hemisphere),
or fall is falling elegantly (southern hemisphere),
wherever you are.
=)
xoxobb
