Spotted Sandpipers are migratory shorebirds. They spend winters in the southern US and Mexico and breed from Alaska to New Mexico and to the east coast of the US and Canada. I often see them in the summer near mountain lakes and streams where they nest and raise their young. This is the second year I’ve observed them at this lake and the first time I’ve seen them perched in conifers. They are darned cute birds, bobbing their tails up and down and they have cute calls too.
But we mostly had it to ourselves because the highway was closed! It was so green and refreshing. The new bridges are getting installed and looking good. They still need one more. The trail to the pass was closed because of a nearby fire.
This was almost two weeks ago when the high temperatures here in the valley were over 100. I had hoped we’d find some relief in the mountains and chose a hike that took us to 8000′. It still felt hot and very exposed. The wildflowers were beautiful. The bugs were brutal. Willow agreed. On the way home, we stopped to cool off in the creek and Willow was very grateful. Sky didn’t get to go. She is facing some health issues so I won’t be taking her on longer summer hikes. It’s hard to get old and miss out on the fun.
A few more sights and fun stuff. A bird, a bug, ungulates, dogs and interesting scenes.
I really do need to get a macro lens.
My Everyday Photos 