Linear view vs. Masonry View

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

I argued with myself as I drove through a downpour on my way to Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area – should I just turn around and concede the day to the weather? My stubborn streak won out and I’m so glad it did since the day turned out just lovely!

I last visited here in 2006 on a very foggy, windy day so it was a nice contrast to have a sunny and only lightly breezy day. I started the morning watching Peregrine Falcon parents feed breakfast to their two fledglings. Next up was a tour of the historic lighthouse (activated in 1874).

Nesting season was in full swing: cormorants gathered nest material, sparrows grabbed bugs to feed their offspring, Common Murres and Pigeon Guillemots sat on eggs, and several species banded together to chase off their mutual enemy; an immature Bald Eagle.

Low tide at Cobble Beach provided plenty of other sights: colorful flowers, a mated pair of Harlequin Ducks, Harbor Seals resting, bright Purple Sea Urchins, and an unexpected bit of art. All in all, an outstanding day!

 

Peregrine Falcon (mom with food)
Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Tour Guide in Period Dress
Oil Butts (their name, not mine)
Inside the Fresnel Lens
Spiral Staircase
Brandt’s Cormorant with nesting material
White-crowned Sparrow
Common Murre Eggshell
Chasing a Bald Eagle
View South
View North
White-crowned Sparrow with Bugs
White-crowned Sparrow with Bug
Summer on Yaquina Head
Twirly Vine Tendril
Dewy Flower
Fresh Spruce Cones
Yellow Monkeyflower
Storm Clouds
Cobble Beach
Harbor Seals Chillaxin’
Cormorant Photobomb
Purple Sea Urchin
Wavy Ocean Art
Harlequin Duck, F & M
Sketch on Drift Log
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