The mountains and deserts of eastern California, and to the east of California, have provided an effective barrier to the movement of species. In addition the Mediterranean climate has meant that many species have not had to migrate to flee winter. As a result, new species have evolved.
The first of these "California" species is a life bird -
California Thrasher. Ten years ago I wandered the Elfin Forest near Morro Bay in search of this species. No luck. So, I was not optimistic this time. Then I heard a thrasher type song, sought out the source, and found this gentleman posing and singing ...
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| California Thrasher |
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| California Thrasher |
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| California Thrasher |
Later the same day at Montana de Oro State Park, this individual emerged from the dense brush to forage boldly a few feet from where I was standing ...
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| California Thrasher |
We encountered coveys of
California Quail in many locations. Photos are from Pinnacles Nat'l Park and Point Reyes Nat'l Seashore, respectively ...
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| California Quail |
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| California Quail (hen) |
California Towhee is a fairly "new" species having parted company with the Canyon Towhee found east of the mountains and deserts by decree of the AOU in 1989 ...
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| California Towhee |
The Yellow-billed Magpie lacks "California" in its common name, but it range is pretty much restricted to the central valleys of California. On a rare rainy day, this individual posed for me at a rest area not far from Pinnacles Nat'l Park ...
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| Yellow-billed Magpie |
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| Yellow-billed Magpie |
The California Scrub-Jay has not yet achieved species status; officially it is still the Western Scrub-Jay. The Pacific population is richer in color, has distinctive plumage characteristics, a thicker bill, and tends to be bold and conspicuous. Many feel it is overdue for species status. Someday ...
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| Western Scrub-Jay (California Scrub-Jay) |
Good birding!!
