Love these guys! His territory was in the light and his head feathers turned from green to flashes of ruby red as he moved about. Magical summer evening in Idyllwild.

Love how devoted bird parents are to their teens! This mom (bottom) is delivering a tasty morsel to her teenager. Soon he will be taking his place in the colony.

Welcome to your new home on the mountain, Little One!

Mom and Dad guided this Little One from the safety of the nest to his home in the great outdoors. It took him a little while to get accustomed to the brightness of his world, and he spent quite a while with his eyes closed. He finally hopped to a space in the shade and was finally able to take it all in. Welcome!

This handsome teen has been waiting for his mom and dad to bring him some food, in the way he has always known. But it’s nature’s way to teach independence to all things, and this young one is no different. He will only be fed now when he flies after mom and dad, strengthening his wings and discovering his true place in the world. He will join his colony and experience the joy of freedom in his beautiful mountain home.

Sweet female out on a snowy afternoon

Waiting for a turn at the feeder

Enjoying some breakfast on a chilly morning

Clever squirrels. They’re always successful in their feeder raids. When they finish, seed is everywhere. Perhaps they are sent on these missions by their friends who can’t use the feeders, like the ground squirrels, and the quail, and the ravens. As the fearless, creative, and acrobatic beings that they are, the squirrels are well-suited for the task. And as generous beings, they are happy to share, and happy to help their community. Just as Mother Earth would want it to be. Life is good.

The day after a storm is always magical … and sparkly