Brian Smith's Photos

An ordinary day on the usual San Rafael route — the birds and flowers that turn up on most walks along here, plus one that doesn’t: an Osprey overhead carrying a fish, while we were up on a hill about 500 feet above sea level. You don’t see that every day.

Then, up on the hill, the Osprey — circling with a fish still in its talons, well worth stopping for.

Back down and along the water, a whole quartet of Snowy Egrets lined up together.

Later in the afternoon: Oregon Gumweed in flower, then the regulars along the rest of the walk — Snowy Egret, Black-necked Stilt, Great Egret, and another Snowy Egret.

And to finish: a Black Phoebe, two Chestnut-backed Chickadees, an Oak Titmouse, and an American Crow — a solid tally for one afternoon.

Nothing planned about this one — just the daily walk, and the Osprey made sure it was a good one.