Burrowing owl

Today we took a friend to Berkeley's Cesar Chavez Park, where we were lucky enough to see one of the burrowing owls that reside there this time of year. Their nesting area is fenced off, but this one was in camera view. Burrowing owls live in burrows and are active during the day, unlike many owls. They are one of the smallest owls in North America. Their Berkeley population has been declining in recent years.

Also on this walk, we saw some Western Grebes doing their mating dance across the water (before I had my camera ready, though).

Yesterday even the East Bay had small tsunamis, nothing like the coast. Today the water was calm, and sailboats were everywhere. The tsunamis were pretty rough at the California coast, but the only known casualty was a young photographer who couldn't resist the chance for some great photos. I understand the urge and sympathize. I also want to express my sympathy for the people of Japan. including some friends who are okay but without water.