An Enormous Bird

We take a camping trip to Pinnacles National Monument, the remains of an ancient volcano, with the Gardener's sister. This is the ideal time of year to visit because the spring flowers are magnificent. We set up camp in a very nice spot. 

We see an enormous bird flying overhead, one that dwarfs the turkey vultures that fly below it. We know that California Condors were released here in 2003 and we suspect that we're lucky enough to be seeing one.  A California Condor can have a wingspan of nearly 10 feet and soar as high as 15,000 feet.  

 
 On the High Peaks Trail

Next day, after a hearty breakfast of bacon, eggs and fried potatoes, we take the High Peaks Trail.  We see many spring flowers,some of which would do well in our dry wash; golden yarrow and monkey flower are examples.

   

  Our Picnic Spot 

Back at camp in the evening a fellow camper invites us to look through his spotting scope at the Condor, which is sitting on a tree branch.  A marvelous sight!

Comments

[Kate]

That condor must have been an unbelievable sight - so so huge !!

[Kerry]

I feel privileged to have seen a California Condor. They were near extinction and now there are 26 birds in the Pinnacles area alone.