Tag: Ventura County

Last Year, This Year

Yucca plants bloom in the spring, and then die back.  The stalks remain behind and new growth sprouts nearby.  The leaves at the base of the stalk are sharp and spiky.  They are a protected plant in California.  Every year, I love seeing the hillsides dotted with their tall flower stalks – often they are 7 – 10 feet tall.  In a land of low scrub, it is a pleasant break to the eye.

Little Friend

The local botanical garden is filled with new growth.  Vines, trees, shrubs, bulbs are in bloom.  Birds and lizards and coyotes are to be seen, and the squirrels are fatter than fat.  I was walking home from my visit when a rustling caught my ear . . . this guy was just bopping around within feet of me, and luckily I could get his portrait before he flew off to explore new territory.  This is a Dark-eyed Junco.