ISLAY CREEK

Unbelievable as it may seem I was on the Islay Creek Trail a tad after 8:00 a.m. In the morning there is less wind, better lighting, and the birds are active. The day was sunny with a deep blue sky.

The top photo is the view from the beginning of the trail. Actually, the trail, for the first couple of miles, is a narrow dirt and rock road.

During my walk, I was accompanied by a choir of bird songs. Swainson's Thrush, Wilson's Warbler, Wrentit, and Song Sparrow. Cliff Swallows swooped over my head. Spotted and California Towhees were everywhere. A Great Egret flew up the creek - such a beautiful bird.

Meandering through the center of the willows and oaks on its route to the sea, is Islay Creek. (see photo) Reservoir Creek Trail is on the left side of the creek and Islay Creek Trail is on the right. The dense vegetation provides nesting and resting for many species of birds, including Owls.

All along the trail and particularly in the shaded areas were wild flowers and flowering shrubs. Saw several little white-tailed rabbits. At one month of age they are ready to have a family of their own. Except for a couple of runners, I had the trail and Islay Creek to myself.