Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Just south of Eureka on the coast is the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife refuge.

I decided to get off the highway and check it out.

It is teeming with waterfowl and other bird life, and it is an important stopping point on the migration for some of them.  There were Brandt’s geese, Tundra Swans, a few Canada Geese, cormorants, grebes and various duck species represented.  As well, there were Red-tailed hawks patrolling, no doubt looking for some duck for lunch.

And there were some flowers as well!

   After checking out one viewpoint, I drove further towards the coast and found a five-mile long spit of land which also had a population of nesting Snowy plovers.  There are closures and restrictions on hiking and dogs in the area, as well as the removal of some non-native vegetation to aid in their nesting success.

Narrow road leading down to the spit.I am still adapting to the differences between travelling with a truck camper and a fifth wheel.  Though the larger unit certainly makes some manoeuvres a bit more challenging, I am also discovering the relative freedom when you can un-hook and drive about with a simple pickup!

Of course, that also means that you have to ‘plan’ what to bring with you as far as food, cameras, clothing, that in the past have always been right there with me at all times!

It’s taking some getting used to.On the way out along the spit, I was lucky enough to watch  a whole flock of what I assume are the Snowy Plovers who were feeding right beside the road. You might be able to see them if you click on the photo, or maybe you’ll just have to take my word for it.  Maybe it is time for a camera with a telephoto?  Big ocean swells were crashing onto the beach and against the jetty – which was well signed to warn people away because of the hazardous conditions.  

And (so far) I am quite liking the convenience of using Live Writer to whip up blog entries at my leisure, not just when I happen to have wi-fi access for a little while.

Still waiting to hear when my satellite internet rig is going to arrive.

Can’t wait for that newdevelopment.