Puff the magic spotted owling

Here's a few mostly clear owl shots taken by my crew leader Jay from our recent nest check. And what is that hiding amongst the leaves and branches? It is one of two hatchling owls which are being diligently watched over by their momma (who posed ever so nicely for us). She was so determined to get the mice we had with us to feed her babies, she practically flew right into me.

And of course, this strapping young biologist is Taylor (for those of you who haven't met him). Now that goshawk surveys are starting up, this summer will fly by. Weeks will be filled with campouts and the kek-kek-kek! call of the goshawk, weekends will be full of various adventures including a trip back to the mendocino coast, long drive to vegas to meet up with much-missed Chicago friends, get together at the high sierra music festival for 4th of July weekend, a visit from my momma!, blues and beer fest in august and another weekend in San Fran watching the white sox at AT&T park. Phew, that sure does sound like alot.