Harmony Headlands State Park - The morning was beautiful, the trail damp from recent rains, a couple of mucky spots, but nothing that was not navigable.
A small stream, meandered alongside the trail. The hills were thick with green coastal scrub, bird sounds drew my attention into the stream side shrubbery. Bewick’s Wren, Blue-grey Gnatcatcher, and a Yellow-rumpled Warbler were very active, yet easy to see. A bright blue Scrub Jay was makings it's presence known.
Overhead an American Kestrel (photo below), Red-tailed and
Red-shouldered Hawk. On a not too distant
outcropping perched a magnificent Golden Eagle. The Golden Eagle sighting was a delightful surprise.
I find the best time to visit Harmony Headlands is during winter and spring when the hills are green, the ponds are full, and ticks are not a problem.
The primary pond is not huge but large enough to attract ducks. I was hoping to see a Redhead. As can be seen in the photo, the pond spreads into the brush. In the brush on the far side were several Mallards, as far as I could determine there was no Redhead among them. I am planning a return trip after the current rainy season passes. On the pond were Coots, Pied-billed Grebe, and a small flock of Ruddy Duck. Taking advantage of the insects were Black and Say’s Phoebe. The robust song of California Thrasher was pervasive. This time of year Harmony Headlands is truly magical.
Harmony Headlands State Park is located directly off Hwy 1, about a mile north of Villa Creek Road.
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