LASSEN VOLCANIC NATIONAL PARK

Following Google maps, Lassen is 444 miles from home to park entrance.  Arrived at our no frills motel, got our key and then headed into the park.  Every inch of the way, spectacular scenery - rushing falls, gurgling creeks, vibrant pines, fantastic firs, and huge patches of colorful wildflowers.  At 10,457 feet, Lassen Peak (photo), one of the largest plug dome volcano in the world,  dominates the landscape.

At 8:00 the next morning fellow traveler, Phoebe and I were on the trail to Bumpass Hell, Lassen's largest hydrothermal area.  Much to my delight we sighted a Female Sooty Grouse; they breed in the Park.  She stood still and looked at us for at least a minute, which allowed me the time to get a photo - my second sighting of a Grouse.  Yeah!

 As we progressed along the trail, I must admit my focus went from birds to surviving the hike.  At 8,220 feet, going up and down hill in the sun for 3 rocky miles, took a bit of an effort, but we survived and were mighty proud of our accomplishment.  

The next morning, after a great night's sleep, we took off for Manzanita Lake (5,890 ft.), known for great birding.  Immediately saw a Bufflehead family, several teenage American Coot, and 2 Canada Goose.  Met a friendly birder from Redding who led me to a Red-breasted Sapsucker and a White-headed Woodpecker.  Steller's Jay, Mountain Chickadee were everywhere.  Heard many Brown Creeper and Flicker.  Was hoping to see a Pileated Woodpecker, but no luck.  Did hear one though. 

After lunch, walked along Manzanita Creek looking for an American Dipper.  They are one of my very favorite birds, as they frequent icy streams and walk under water to feed.  They are equipped with an extra eyelid called a nictitating membrane that allows them to see underwater.  When I heard a sweet tweet I knew one was near and sure enough there was the little darling standing on a rock.  In a moment it disappeared under the water.  A most amazing bird.

Our last sighting was of three Osprey, a fussing adolescent, and 2 adults soaring over the lake.  A fitting close to a wonderful day.  

SWEET SPRINGS OVERLOOK

The morning was fresh. Our glorious sun was playing hid and seek with huge cumulus clouds; rain was on its way. The tide was high. Brant Geese were feeding along the edges of the pickleweed. Behind the Brant were many hundreds of Ruddy Ducks. Feeding nearby were Scaup, Pintail, Widgeon, and Blue and Green-winged Teal. Further out in the bay were huge flocks of mixed ducks and Cormorants. Over head flew the noisy Caspian Tern.

Sunday marked the end of the 30 day Brant hunting season, Yeah! It is rather disconcerting to hear the blast of shotguns when one is quietly checking out the ducks. The season for ducks runs through January 27th. Morro Bay is designated a "Bird Sanctuary." Seems rather odd that hunting is allowed in a sanctuary.
Brant (above photo) are vocally expressive - always murmuring to each other. Perhaps they are discussing their yearly migratory flight from the northern coast of Alaska to Morro Bay. Their gentle sound touches my heart and makes me feel that all is right. (for the moment)

As I was exiting Sweet Spring, heard the high pitched "tsee" of a Brown Creeper. With little effort saw two adorable little Creepers working their way up a Cypress. The sun was now hiding behind the clouds. Definitely time for a cup of tea.