Journal archives for April 2013

April 1, 2013

March 31, 2013

Today, BJ and I explored a new area to me from the La Cresta Heights gate.
I finally got to see some Big Berry Manzanita and Bladderpod in Crestridge.
After exploring a trail going down to the left, and BJ left to check on a bird observation else where, I climbed up to a plateau with loops for mountain bikers and more segdes and rush than what I have seen at CER before.
Ceanothus leucodermis were abundant and still in bloom. There was also a rocky area that seem to be a very good location for Hesperoyucca whipplei and a great view.

Posted on April 1, 2013 04:03 AM by microm microm | 1 comment | Leave a comment

April 6, 2013

April 3, 2013

I went in from the Upper Rios Canyon Road entrance onto Flynn Springs Trail in search of blooming Lakeside Ceanothus (Ceanothus cyaneus).
Three Scullcaps (Scutellaria tuberosa)are up at the same place as last year. I noticed one Soaproot (Chlorogalum parviflorum) budding.

The Lakeside Ceanothus where impressive because of their height and mostly because of their deep blue blooms. What a sight!

On the way back, I noticed a patch of leafy plants, possibly California Fuschia (Epilobium canum) to be checked for blossom in a few months.

Posted on April 6, 2013 01:45 AM by microm microm | 0 comments | Leave a comment

April 10, 2013

April 7, 2013

I returned to this trail on the Southwest side of the reserve (La Cresta Heights entrance) with the intent to document Juncus and Sedges but got totally distracted by blooms and butterflies. Pale Swallowtails were teasing me along the path but would not land anywhere near, at all. One cannot miss their presence as they are as big as a humming bird. Only towards the end of my exploring did one finally land on a Xilococcus bicolor and gave me ample time to document it.

Posted on April 10, 2013 07:24 PM by microm microm | 0 comments | Leave a comment

April 12, 2013

April 11, 2013

My intention was to check if the Delicate Clarkias were ready to be photographed and they were!
Of course, one can have plans but plans also change with the flow of butterflies, birds and humming birds that come along.
As always, I had a blast even if I don't know the names of quite a few of them.
By the time I was winding down, I no longer had the energy to drive to another entrance of the reserve where I need to document a few flower species as they are blooming.
Soon, I hope to return for more adventures.

Posted on April 12, 2013 02:41 AM by microm microm | 0 comments | Leave a comment

April 22, 2013

April 21, 2013

Documenting the Isocoma bushes that I do not know, at the Rios Canyon road entrance, and checking on another plant I am watching grow, were my main goals. As always, nature has a way of surprising anyone who is paying attention.
Butterflies are still very active and seem to no longer pay attention to my walking by them, particularly the Behr's Metalmark which are quite active on the various mustard plants.
I finally saw a San Diego Horned Lizard! Of course, he promptly took cover away from the path but allowed just enough time for me to take a few pictures.
Hikes will have to take place earlier or much later in the day as temperatures are rising. Great walk as usual!

Posted on April 22, 2013 06:33 PM by microm microm | 0 comments | Leave a comment

April 25, 2013

April 21, 2013

The hike started from the Rios Canyon entrance, documenting the Isocoma bushes I do not know. Today was the first day I observed a Horned Lizard who unfortunately retreated under some brush. I managed to take a few pictures and hope that next time I'll get some better shots.

Posted on April 25, 2013 04:13 PM by microm microm | 0 comments | Leave a comment

April 28, 2013

April 27, 2013

Another hike starting from the Rios Canyon entrance going up to what people call "The Race Track." I was planning on checking the last of the Ceanothus Cyaneus blooms and whatever else came my way.
Sure enough, I saw a few species I had not seen before. What a thrill!
It got to be pretty hot and the disadvantage of the chaparral is to try to find a bit of shade to rest and water my dog.
Great day!

Posted on April 28, 2013 05:13 AM by microm microm | 0 comments | Leave a comment

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