Nature Walk

On New Years Day with the kids at a friends house, Walt suggested he and I take a walk near the American River in a local nature preserve. We did and although it was very cold outside, the air and beauty was refreshing. We saw many deer, 18 in one group, and a jack rabbit.

This weekend is sunny and a little warmer than last week. We decided to take the kids to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and along the nature preserve trails that back it. We didn't see as many deer this time but there were still plenty out grazing in the sun. We also saw quite a few wild turkeys. It was so nice to be out enjoying the sun with the kids. They really enjoyed the walk and seeing the wild animals. Walt and Josh even took over the camera.


We haven't been to Effie Yeaw Nature Center in a very long time and it's a lot cooler than I remember. This is Josh with the wingspan of a California Condor. I don't think I've ever seen one. I'd sure love to.


This is a Saw-whet Owl that is in the center. They also have a Great Horned Owl. I find both are so stunning.


The beginning of our walk. Josh spotted some deer up ahead.


Aww. We could get pretty close before they would run away. This is taken with a zoom lens and cropped in though.


Can you see the buck? I learned from Walt that bucks are more timid or "smarter" as he said and stay farther away from humans. We rarely see any on these nature walks.


Why did the turkey cross the road? To get to the other side! Bwah-ha-ha. (I crack myself up.)


I rarely get a chance to be in front of the camera.


It's because I behave poorly.