Caterpillar walks on crab beneath birds!

Bronze birds near entrance of the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge and regional complex headquarters in Chula Vista.
Bronze birds near entrance of the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge and regional complex headquarters in Chula Vista.

Having some fun!

Today I visited the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista. I should have a couple blog posts coming up with lots of photos.

First, here’s a fearless caterpillar that I spotted walking on a crab under some birds. The crab and bronze shorebirds are artwork in front of the wildlife refuge headquarters! The visiting caterpillar is a resident of the surrounding marsh. Perhaps it’s an art lover!

I searched the internet for a few minutes, trying to identify this particular fuzzy caterpillar. No success. Leave a comment if you know!

The representation of a crab underneath the bronze shorebirds is being visited by a living creature.
An inanimate crab beneath the bronze shorebirds is being visited by a living creature.
A fuzzy caterpillar makes its way over the crab.
A fuzzy caterpillar makes its way over the crab.
Wildlife living in the Sweetwater Marsh meets art.
Wildlife living in the Sweetwater Marsh meets art.

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

A short hike in San Diego National Wildlife Refuge.

There was no need to alter this photo in the slightest way. The colors appeared astonishingly bright this morning in the sunlit mountains and hills east of San Diego.
There was no need to alter this photo in the slightest way. Nature’s colors appeared astonishingly rich this morning in the sunlit mountains and hills east of San Diego.

My 9:00 hike this morning turned out to be shorter than expected. That’s because I was the only one to show up for a scheduled nature hike in a beautiful section of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge. Following directions, I parked a few minutes early at the Par 4 trailhead in Jamul, near the Cottonwood Golf Course. I kept checking my watch, hoping the US Fish & Wildlife Service ranger would arrive. I was looking forward to identifying the spring wildflowers and flowering plants along the trail. But it wasn’t to be. I suppose the event was cancelled due to yesterday’s rain.

I didn’t walk far because I didn’t want to adversely impact the still wet trail. Near the trailhead the footing was packed and firm, and my shoes barely made an impression, but perhaps a quarter mile into my hike there was just too much mud to continue.

As you can see, the hills of San Diego are bright green! This winter has been very rainy. During the summer the green in these photos will vanish as the native grasses, sagebrush and scrubby chaparral dry out in the relentless Southern California sun.

During my short hike, I did capture a few photos of tiny flowers and a bird! I’m sorry to report that I can’t properly identify them. Perhaps you can!

Sign at the Par 4 trailhead includes information for hikers and those on horseback. The trail follows the Sweetwater River in Jamul.
Sign at the Par 4 trailhead includes information for hikers and those on horseback. The trail follows the Sweetwater River in Jamul.
The San Diego National Wildlife Refuge Complex includes four areas designed to protect wildlife in Southern California.
The San Diego National Wildlife Refuge Complex includes four areas designed to protect wildlife in Southern California. (Click image to enlarge.)
There are patchy wildlife refuges in some of San Diego County's undeveloped areas. This map shops where they are located. The Par 4 trailhead is near the top of the bigger green blob.
There are various wildlife refuges in San Diego County’s undeveloped areas. This map shows where several managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service are located. The Par 4 trailhead is near the top of the bigger green blob.
A wet trail heads west over a green landscape. Many birds were seen flying across the open space.
A damp trail leads west over a green landscape. Many birds were seen flying across this open space. The morning’s short hike was made pleasurable by a fresh cool breeze and warm sunlight.
Beautiful tiny yellow flowers and raindrops on green leaves. What this plant is, I don't know. Leave a comment if you do!
Beautiful tiny yellow flowers and lingering raindrops on green leaves. What this plant is, I don’t know. Leave a comment if you do!
I spotted this little bird perched on a twig near the hiking trail.
I spotted this little bird perched on a twig near the hiking trail.
I tried to identify this small bird, using my California Birds pocket guide, but I couldn't decide. If you know, leave a comment!
I tried to identify this small bird using my California Birds pocket guide, but I couldn’t decide. If you know, leave a comment!
I'm no expert, but I did find these tiny jewel-like lavender flowers to be beautiful.
I’m no expert, but I did find these tiny jewel-like lavender flowers to be beautiful.
Dramatic white clouds in a blue sky. Natural beauty in San Diego's East County the day after a big storm.
Dramatic white clouds in a blue sky. Natural beauty in San Diego’s East County the day after a big storm.

After this very small hike, I drove along Highway 94 to Campo, winding my way through bright green rocky mountains. Then I headed back toward San Diego via Buckman Springs and Pine Valley, without any particular notion of where to stop. Then it occurred to me: Why not hike Cowles Mountain today? So I did, as you’ll see in the next blog post!

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Fun street art on Mission Center Road!

Street art on Mission Center Road north of Friars Road depicts nature along the nearby San Diego River.
Street art on Mission Center Road north of Friars Road depicts wildlife along the nearby San Diego River.

Several electrical boxes on Mission Center Road just north of Friars Road have been painted with fun street art.  This morning I took a small detour while walking to work to snap a few photos.

A snowy egret beautifully painted on a Mission Valley transformer box.
A snowy egret beautifully painted on a Mission Valley transformer.
Street art shows a mallard and three ducklings in some grass near the San Diego River.
A mallard and three ducklings in some grass near the San Diego River.
A funny sketch on an electrical box. A gull is carrying away a bag of chips!
A funny sketch on an electrical box. A gull is carrying away a bag of chips!
Welcome to Mission Valley. This street art greets drivers heading along Mission Center Road.
Welcome to Mission Valley. A rabbit greets drivers heading along Mission Center Road.
This historic old building is located a few miles to the east. The Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, founded in 1769, first Spanish mission in Alta California.
This historic old building is located a few miles to the east. Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, founded in 1769, first Spanish mission in Alta California.

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Bird sightings along San Diego’s Embarcadero!

A seagull stands atop a pile of nets and floats on San Diego's picturesque G Street Pier.
A seagull stands atop a pile of nets and floats on San Diego’s picturesque G Street Pier.

You won’t believe all the birds I identified today during my walk along the Embarcadero. You really will not believe it!

Check out these fun flighty photos taken beside beautiful San Diego Bay!

American coots (also called mud hens) on rocks near the Marriott Marina.
American coots (also called mud hens) stand on rocks near the Marriott Marina.
A Canada goose on San Diego's Embarcadero! Now that's a very unusual sight! This bird seems to have joined a local flock of American coots. Maybe it was blown off course during the recent windy storm.
A Canada goose on San Diego’s Embarcadero! Now that’s a very unusual sight! This bird seems to have joined a local flock of American coots. Maybe it was blown off course during the recent windy storm.
Another strange bird near the sparkling water about to take flight! Oh, wait. My mistake.
Another strange bird near the sparkling water about to take flight! Oops. My mistake.
A female black-crowned night heron among rocks near the Embarcadero Marina Park South pier.
A female black-crowned night heron among rocks near the Embarcadero Marina Park South pier.
A gathering of pigeons on the grass at Embarcadero Marina Park North.
A gathering of pigeons on the grass at Embarcadero Marina Park North.
Rare exotic birds photographed in flight! Oops. Those are kites. Fooled me again.
Rare exotic birds photographed in flight! Oops. Those are actually colorful kites. Fooled me again!
I've arrived at Seaport Village. Okay, I'm certain these are real birds--maybe. Looks like a parrot, flamingo and some egrets.
I’ve arrived at Seaport Village. Okay, I’m certain these are real birds–maybe. Looks like a parrot, flamingo and some egrets.
Birds and sea lions await handouts of leftover fish parts. Early Saturday afternoon, and the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is wrapping up.
Gulls, pelicans and sea lions await handouts of leftover fish parts. Early Saturday afternoon, and the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is wrapping up.
Two sneaky gulls with watchful eyes.
Two sneaky gulls with hungry, watchful eyes.
There's gotta be some yummy fish scraps here somewhere!
There’s gotta be some yummy fish scraps here somewhere!
Commercial fishermen unload on the small dock behind this gate at Tuna Harbor. Birds wait eternally here, too!
Commercial fishermen unload on the small dock behind this gate at Tuna Harbor. Birds wait eternally here, too!
A bird in the sky above broad-winged sailboats flying across San Diego Bay.
A bird in the sky above broad-winged sailboats flying across San Diego Bay.
Seabirds love hanging out around the fishing vessels at Tuna Harbor.
Seabirds love hanging out around the fishing vessels at Tuna Harbor.
A snowy egret near the net of a live bait catching purse seiner.
A snowy egret near the net of a live bait catching seiner.
A double-crested cormorant flaps its wings in the water of San Diego Bay near the USS Midway.
A double-crested cormorant flaps its wings in the water of San Diego Bay near the USS Midway.
Birds above an ocean wave, painted on a ceramic tile by a young person. Many fun tile benches along the Embarcadero were created for a project titled Celebrating the Big Bay in 2004.
Birds above an ocean wave, painted on a ceramic tile by a young person. Many fun tile benches along the Embarcadero were created for a project called Celebrating the Big Bay in 2004.
Many birds in flight.
Many birds in flight.

This blog now features thousands of photos around San Diego! Are you curious? There’s lots of fun stuff to check out!

Here’s the Cool San Diego Sights main page, where you can read the most current blog posts.  If you’re using a small mobile device, click those three parallel lines up at the top–that opens up my website’s sidebar, where you’ll see the most popular posts, a search box, and more!

To enjoy future posts, you can also “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.

Kayakers, volunteers clean San Diego River Estuary!

Many ordinary people came out today to help clean up the San Diego River Estuary.
Many ordinary people came out today to help clean up the San Diego River Estuary.

Lots of good people volunteered to clean up the San Diego River Estuary today. Some took to kayaks, others walked along the shoreline, filling bags with nasty litter and debris. The river estuary, emptying into the Pacific Ocean between Mission Bay and Ocean Beach, is a very important wetland in this region, and millions of birds rely on it during their migrations. Small bits of trash ingested by birds and other wildlife can be fatal.

The estuary cleanup was organized by The San Diego River Park Foundation. Kayakers are permitted to enter the San Diego River Estuary only one time every year–during this special event. I walked along the river and saw what ordinary people can achieve when working unselfishly for the good of our world.

A sign directs people to the river cleanup.
A sign directs people to the river cleanup.
Beautiful white clouds are reflected in the calm water of the San Diego River.
Beautiful white clouds are reflected in the calm water of the San Diego River as it approaches the ocean.
Many birds make the river and its sandbanks their home, including ducks, herons and egrets.
Many birds make the river and its mud flats their home, including ducks, herons and egrets.
A photographer captures images of waterfowl swimming through grass down the river.
A photographer captures images of waterfowl swimming through grass down the river.
My camera isn't quite so fancy, but I did get an okay photo of this snowy egret!
My camera isn’t quite so fancy, but I did get an okay photo of this snowy egret!
As I walked west along the San Diego River, I noticed a number of kayaks out on the water.
As I walked west along the San Diego River, I noticed a number of kayaks out on the water.
A sign by the river describes the problem of stormwater pollution. During rains, a good deal of runoff enters the estuary, carrying all sorts of pollutants and trash. (I had to really alter this photo so we could make out what the old sign says.)
A sign by the river describes the problem of stormwater pollution. During rains, a good deal of runoff enters the estuary, carrying all sorts of pollutants and trash. (I had to really alter this photograph so we could make out what the old sign says. Click the image to enlarge it.)
A cleanup volunteer with a kayak is arriving!
A cleanup volunteer with a kayak is arriving!
Plastic bags in these kayaks have been filled with garbage found in the river.
Plastic bags in these kayaks have been filled with garbage found in the river. I learned much of it was snagged in the grass.
Dozens of caring people were on the rocky river shore, looking for trash.
Dozens of caring people were on the rocky river shore, looking for trash.
San Diego is fortunate to have many thoughtful people, concerned about our environment.
San Diego is fortunate to have many thoughtful people, concerned about our environment.
Volunteering is often a family affair, teaching the next generation about generosity and responsibility.
Volunteering is often a family affair, teaching the next generation about generosity and responsibility.
This guy is carrying his kayak back to his car.
This guy was carrying his kayak back to his car.
Another guy showed me the trash he collected. He said he found a variety of garbage. Some of it is windblown. Some comes from Interstate 5 and other bridges which cross the river nearby.
Another guy showed me the trash he collected. He said he found a variety of garbage. Some flows downstream. Some of it is windblown. Some comes from Interstate 5 and other bridges which cross the river nearby.
A tent where people can sign up to volunteer and learn more about The San Diego River Park Foundation.
A tent where people can sign up to volunteer and learn more about The San Diego River Park Foundation.
From the mountains to the ocean, we care for the San Diego River!
From the mountains to the ocean, we care for the San Diego River!
Sadly, the river isn't healthy. A grade is assigned each year based upon trash, water quality and the extent of invasive plants.
Sadly, the river isn’t healthy. A grade is assigned each year based upon trash, water quality and the extent of invasive plants.
Sign shows volunteering possibilities. (Click these sign images to read--they will enlarge.)
Sign shows volunteering possibilities. (Click these sign images to read–they will enlarge.)
Picking up garbage and readying kayaks underneath the West Mission Bay Bridge.
Picking up garbage and readying kayaks underneath the West Mission Bay Bridge.
Collected trash was placed in a nearby dumpster.
Collected trash was placed in a nearby dumpster.
Smiles in the San Diego sunlight. A perfect day to make our world cleaner, healthier and more beautiful.
Smiles in the San Diego sunlight. A perfect day to make our world cleaner, healthier and more beautiful.
Kayakers launch into the San Diego River during a special event to clean the estuary.
Kayakers launch into the San Diego River during a special event to clean the estuary.

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

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Nature and history on a walk in Los Peñasquitos Canyon.

Naturalist Mike Kelly leads a small group of hikers into Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve from the Del Mar Mesa trailhead.
Naturalist Mike Kelly leads a small group of hikers into Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve from the Del Mar Mesa trailhead.

Free guided nature walks in the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve introduce the public to unexpected wild beauty in the heart of San Diego. Yesterday I went on one of these easy walks.

Our guide, naturalist Mike Kelly, longtime member of the Friends of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, has been an advocate working to safeguard this beautiful and historic San Diego canyon for over three decades. He’s a friendly fellow whose knowledge of the canyon’s flora, fauna and fascinating history made for an extremely enjoyable hike.

Years ago, Mike and others fought to save Los Peñasquitos Canyon from development. Their efforts resulted in about half of the canyon being protected. Fortunately, the preserve is connected to other similar natural areas in San Diego through various corridors, allowing wildlife to move about and thrive. Owls, woodpeckers, hawks, raccoons, bobcats, coyotes, mule deer, even an occasional mountain lion make the canyon their home. Native trees, chaparral, grass and spring flowers are abundant and the source of endless enjoyment.

I learned there are also wildlife tracking hikes, plus night walks, when deer are frequently seen. There are also free guided tours of San Diego’s second oldest residence, which stands near the east end of the preserve, the Rancho Santa Maria de Los Peñasquitos adobe. To learn about all these wonderful adventures, which are ideal for families, click here.

To learn more about the Friends of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, click here! Perhaps you’d like to become a member!

The Del Mar Mesa trailhead is located near suburban homes at the north edge of Los Peñasquitos Canyon.
The Del Mar Mesa trailhead is located near suburban homes at the north edge of Los Peñasquitos Canyon.
A sign posted at the trailhead shows future trails proposed in the Natural Resources Management Plan.
A sign posted at the trailhead shows future trails proposed in the Natural Resources Management Plan.
Our small group of hikers heads down into the canyon through Coastal Sage Scrub habitat. We are passing California scrub oaks.
Our small group of hikers heads down into the canyon through Coastal Sage Scrub habitat. We are passing California scrub oaks.
We headed to Carsons Crossing before checking out the popular Waterfall.
We headed to Carson’s Crossing before checking out the popular waterfall.
Approaching the central part of the long, narrow canyon, which runs from Poway west to the Pacific Ocean. Peñasquitos Creek lies beyond those coast live oaks in the distance.
Approaching the central part of the long, narrow canyon, which runs from Poway west to Del Mar and the Pacific Ocean. Peñasquitos Creek lies beyond those coast live oaks in the distance.
Kit Carson crossing is an historically important spot in Peñasquitos Canyon. Kit Carson crossed the creek here during the Mexican-American War. General Kearny's US Army of the West was faced with formidable Californio lancers in San Pasqual, and the legendary frontiersman Kit Carson snuck away in the middle of the night to summon reinforcements from San Diego. The later 1857 Jackass Mail stagecoach line also ran through here enroute to San Diego.
Carson’s Crossing is an historically important spot in Peñasquitos Canyon. Kit Carson crossed the creek here during the Mexican-American War. General Kearny’s US Army of the West was faced with formidable Californio lancers in San Pasqual, and the legendary frontiersman Kit Carson snuck away in the middle of the night to summon reinforcements from San Diego. He knew to come this way.  The later 1857 Jackass Mail stagecoach line also ran through the canyon here enroute to San Diego.
Heading west through the beautiful canyon in the shade of oaks, sycamores and willows. It's an easy, pleasant hike.
Heading west through the beautiful canyon in the shade of oaks, sycamores and willows. It’s an easy, pleasant hike.
Looking north across a field in Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve in late October. Many leaves and flowers are now brown, awaiting winter rains.
Looking north across a field in Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve in late October. Summers are very dry. Many leaves and flowers are now brown, awaiting winter rains.
Walking slowly, senses alert. I smell the nearby sagebrush. I hear acorn woodpeckers and quail. I see beautiful clouds.
Walking slowly, senses alert. I smell the nearby sagebrush. I hear acorn woodpeckers and quail. I see beautiful clouds.
Mike Kelly is a guide and activist whose knowledge of Peñasquitos is deep. Here he shows us some poison oak which is growing a short distance off the trail.
Mike Kelly is a guide and activist whose knowledge of Peñasquitos is deep. Here he shows us some poison oak which is growing a short distance off the trail.
A peaceful walk through nature. Over several decades, activists like Mike have worked hard to preserve the canyon and protect it from development. Today it is maintained by both the City and County of San Diego.
A peaceful walk through nature. Over several decades, activists like Mike have worked hard to preserve the canyon and protect it from development. Today it is maintained by volunteers and both the City and County of San Diego.
Mike Kelly shows us some California broom. Native American Kumeyaay and pioneers used the plant like a broom for sweeping.
Mike Kelly shows us some California broom. Native American Kumeyaay and pioneers used the plant like a broom for sweeping.
Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve is a very popular place for jogging, hiking and mountain biking. Even marathoners use it for training.
Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve is a very popular place for jogging, hiking and mountain biking. Even marathoners use it for training.
Now we're approaching a sign and a large rock outcropping, which I learned is volcanic.
Now we’re approaching a trail sign and a large rock outcropping, which I learned is volcanic.
Sign shows proposed San Diego Trans County Trail, which when completed would run from the Pacific Ocean over the mountains east of San Diego and out to the Salton Sea in the desert.
Sign shows proposed San Diego Trans County Trail, which when completed would run from the Pacific Ocean over the mountains east of San Diego and out to the Salton Sea in the desert.
I see lots of prickly pear cacti. Now we are getting close to the popular waterfall!
I see lots of prickly pear cacti. Now we are getting close to the popular waterfall!
Approaching the Peñasquitos Creek waterfall from the east.
Approaching the Peñasquitos Creek waterfall from the east.
Descending rough stone steps to the waterfall. I learned the steps were a project of an Eagle Boy Scout.
Descending rough stone steps to the waterfall. I learned the steps were a project of an Eagle Boy Scout.
The small waterfall and its rocky pools are located near the center of Los Peñasquitos Canyon. It is the destination of many hikes. A great place to relax, cool off, and listen to the soothing water.
The small waterfall and its rocky pools are located near the center of Los Peñasquitos Canyon. It is the destination of many hikes. A great place to relax, cool off, and listen to the soothing water.
Water spills over rocks. It isn't Niagara Falls, but it is wonderful nonetheless.
Water spills over rocks. It isn’t Niagara Falls, but it’s wonderful nonetheless.
Hikers pause above a pool of water which is captured by large blocks of volcanic rock. When the creek crests, it can rise many feet and submerge this area.
Hikers pause above a pool of water which is captured by large blocks of volcanic rock. When the creek crests, it can rise many feet and submerge this area.
A hiker up above seems to walk in the sky.
A hiker up above seems to walk in the sky.
Families wander down a pleasant trail in Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. There is much here to see and appreciate. So much to learn.
Families wander down a pleasant trail in Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. There is much here to see and appreciate. So much to learn.
Naturalist Mike Kelly shows us a poisonous flower of Datura. In nature, beauty and danger are often found together. We didn't see any rattlesnakes or mountain lions!
Naturalist Mike Kelly shows us a poisonous flower of Datura. In nature, beauty and danger are often found together. One should be thoughtful when hiking, and be careful to wear sturdy footwear and bring water.  We didn’t see any rattlesnakes or mountain lions!

This blog now features thousands of photos around San Diego!  Are you curious?  There’s lots of cool stuff to check out!

Here’s the Cool San Diego Sights main page, where you can read the most current blog posts.  If you’re using a small mobile device, click those three parallel lines up at the top–that opens up my website’s sidebar, where you’ll see the most popular posts, a search box, and more!

To enjoy future posts, you can also “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.

Joan Embery’s My Animal World at Bonita Museum.

Joan Embery appears with Johnny Carson on the Tonight Show. Carol the Elephant paints on a canvas for the national audience.
Joan Embery appears with Johnny Carson on the Tonight Show. Carol the Elephant paints on a canvas for the national television audience.

Who doesn’t know Joan Embery? As a frequent guest on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, as Goodwill Ambassador for the San Diego Zoo, and as an international spokesperson for animal conservation, Joan Embery is loved by people all around the world. She is truly a San Diego legend.

So it’s fitting that the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center is now showing an exhibition about her life and career, titled Joan Embery’s My Animal World.

It was my first visit to this museum, and I was surprised to discover such a fine exhibition. Viewing all the displays gave me a great deal of pleasure. They brought back so many San Diego memories.

These few photographs only provide a small taste of what you will see at the museum. If you’re in San Diego, you really ought to head over to Bonita and check it out. The exhibition runs through December 3, 2016.

The Bonita Museum and Cultural Center is hosting a great exhibition about San Diego legend Joan Embery through December 3, 2016.
The Bonita Museum and Cultural Center is hosting a great exhibition about San Diego legend Joan Embery through December 3, 2016.
An elephant saddle is one of many cool artifacts on display at the Joan Embery's My Animal World exhibition.
An elephant saddle is one of many cool artifacts on display at the Joan Embery’s My Animal World exhibition.
Many photos show Joan Embery through the years--in Bonita, at the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, travelling the world, and on the Pillsbury Ranch.
Many photos show Joan Embery through the years–in Bonita, at the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, travelling the world, and on the Pillsbury Ranch.
Joan Embery was born in San Diego and was raised by a family who loved animals. As a kid, she never could get enough pets.
Joan Embery was born in San Diego and was raised by a family who loved animals. As a kid, she never could get enough pets.
In Junior High School, Joan Embery took horse riding lessons in Bonita. From an early age she dreamt of having her own horse.
In Junior High School, Joan Embery took horse riding lessons in Bonita. From an early age she dreamt of having her own horse.
Wonderful photos of Joan Embery with Carol the Elephant. The two became good friends when Joan worked at the San Diego Zoo. She would become the zoo's world-famous Goodwill Ambassador.
Wonderful photos of Joan Embery with Carol the Elephant. The two became good friends when Joan worked at the San Diego Zoo. She would become the zoo’s world-famous Goodwill Ambassador.
Display at the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center documents a moment in the life and career of Joan Embery.
Display at the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center documents a moment in the life and career of Joan Embery.
Ms. Zoofari. While working at the San Diego Zoo, Joan learned about different animal behaviors and about daily zoo tasks.
Ms. Zoofari. While working at the San Diego Zoo, Joan learned about different animal behaviors and about daily zoo tasks.
Today, the 50-acre Pillsbury Ranch is the home of Joan Embery and her husband Duane Pillsbury. Students visiting the ranch learn about the many different exotic animals that live there.
Today, the 50-acre Pillsbury Ranch is the home of Joan Embery and her husband Duane Pillsbury. Students visiting the ranch learn about the many different exotic animals that live there.
Joan Embery's Tack Room with many related photographs can be found at her museum exhibit in Bonita. Above all, she loves riding horses.
Joan Embery’s Tack Room with many related photographs can be found at her museum exhibit in Bonita. Above all, she loves riding horses.
Joan oversees The Embery Institute for Wildlife Conservation. She has been involved with many programs dedicated to animal and habitat conservation.
Joan oversees The Embery Institute for Wildlife Conservation. She has been involved with many programs dedicated to animal and habitat conservation.
Mountain lion head sculpted by Joan Embery's talented artist husband, Duane Pillsbury.
Mountain lion head sculpted by Joan Embery’s talented artist husband, Duane Pillsbury.
Joan Embery participated on a mountain lion tracking team at Rancho Cuyamaca State Park east of San Diego.
Joan Embery participated on a mountain lion tracking team at Rancho Cuyamaca State Park east of San Diego.
Joan Embery is a San Diego legend loved by many around the world. She has appeared on numerous book covers, magazines and television shows.
Joan Embery is a San Diego legend loved by many around the world. She has appeared on numerous book covers, magazines and television shows.

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!

Beautiful San Diego hiking trail welcomes wheelchairs.

Wheelchairs are welcome on the beautiful Jas Arnold Trail For All People in Black Mountain Open Space Park.
Wheelchairs are welcome on the beautiful Jas Arnold Trail For All People in Black Mountain Open Space Park.

A hiking trail that welcomes wheelchairs recently opened in San Diego’s North County. It’s called the Jas Arnold Trail For All People, and it’s located in the Black Mountain Open Space Park.

This morning I walked the short loop for the first time.

What a wonderful place. Peaceful, a bit meandering, easily accessible, with pleasant views into the sunlit distance, fresh air, the scent of sage, the sound of birds–it’s a fine place that one can explore at a easy pace and just relax–a place to feel energized, spiritually whole and free.

Here are some photographs. To read the signs, click the images and they will enlarge. This morning I spotted a shy rabbit, a curious scrub jay and a cheerful young mockingbird. And a bunch of small flitting birds that I couldn’t identify.

The Trail For All People is a 1076 feet long, nearly level loop. The elevation runs between 777 and 792 feet. The five foot wide hiking trail’s decomposed granite surface is very easily navigated on wheels or by foot. Those in a wheelchair who love nature and the outdoors should definitely check it out!

To reach the Trail For All People’s trailhead, drive up Carmel Valley Road and watch for the Black Mountain Open Space Park sign that mentions Miner’s Ridge Loop. You’ll spot it just south of the Valle Del Sur Court traffic light. Turn in to the narrow entrance and head up a slightly rough and winding paved road for about a half mile until you reach the trailhead parking lot. Once parked, it’s easy to spot the Trail For All People. (You might also see trailheads for the Miner’s Ridge Loop and Lilac Canyon Trail.)

On warm days, make sure to bring water! Enjoy!

To find the trailhead for the Trail For All People, turn off of Carmel Valley Road at this sign, just south of the traffic light at Valle Del Sur Court.
To find the trailhead for the Trail For All People, turn off of Carmel Valley Road at this sign, just south of the traffic light at Valle Del Sur Court.
Early morning walker with dog on the Miner's Ridge Loop Trail, across a parking lot from the Trail For All People.
Early morning walker with dog on the Miner’s Ridge Loop Trail, across a parking lot from the Trail For All People.
The Jas Arnold Trail For All People is an ADA Accessible loop composed of wheelchair-friendly decomposed granite. Four small shelters provide shade for those enjoying the views.
The Jas Arnold Trail For All People is an ADA Accessible loop composed of wheelchair-friendly decomposed granite. Four small shelters provide shade for those enjoying the views.
Native plants along the trail include Black Sage, Coastal Prickly Pear, California Sagebrush, Laurel Sumac, Chamise, Lemonadeberry and Flat-top Buckwheat.
Native plants along the trail include Black Sage, Coastal Prickly Pear, California Sagebrush, Laurel Sumac, Chamise, Lemonadeberry and Flat-top Buckwheat.
Animals one might spot along the trail include rattlesnakes, Red-tailed Hawks, California Quail, Greater Roadrunners, Desert Cottontails, Bobcats and Coyotes.
Animals one might spot along the trail include rattlesnakes, Red-tailed Hawks, California Quail, Greater Roadrunners, Desert Cottontails, Bobcats and Coyotes.
I'm hiking down the easy Jas Arnold Trail For All People on Black Mountain early one Saturday morning. The sun had just risen and few people were about.
Here I’m hiking down the easy Jas Arnold Trail For All People on Black Mountain early one Saturday morning. The sun had just risen and very few people were about.
One of the benches and shelters along the Trail For All People. Views to the north include mountains and nearby 4S Ranch.
One of the benches and shelters along the Trail For All People. Views to the north include mountains and nearby 4S Ranch.
Looking southeast toward a chaparral-covered slope of Black Mountain in north San Diego County.
Looking southeast toward the chaparral-covered slopes of Black Mountain in north San Diego County.
A topographical map shows the position of the Trail For All People in relation to its surroundings.
A topographical map shows the position of the Trail For All People in relation to its surroundings.
The Jas Arnold Trail For All People was built on a small plateau in the Black Mountain Ranch Open Space Park.
The Jas Arnold Trail For All People was built on a small plateau in the Black Mountain Ranch Open Space Park.
Another sign along the trail provides detailed information about some of the wildlife one might see.
Another sign along the trail provides detailed information about some of the wildlife one might see.
Another section of the relatively level Trail For All People. The easy loop is ideal for the mobility challenged and families with small children. On warm days, bring water!
Another section of the relatively level Trail For All People. The easy loop is ideal for the mobility challenged and families with very small children. On warm days, bring water!
One of many fascinating signs along the trail. The smell of sage adds a pleasant element to one's invigorating journey through fresh open air.
One of many fascinating signs along the trail. The smell of sage adds a pleasant element to one’s invigorating journey through fresh open air.
A pleasant view from the Jas Arnold Trail For All People on Black Mountain.
A pleasant view from the Jas Arnold Trail For All People on Black Mountain.
The natural beauty, open spaces and sunlight make one feel happy and alive.
The natural beauty, open spaces and sunlight make one feel happy and alive.

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

San Diego River wildlife in a Mission Valley mural.

Faces peer from a wall near the San Diego River. The very long mural, titled River Life, contains images of wildlife one might find here--or have found here before urban development.
Faces peer from a wall near the San Diego River. The very long mural, titled River Life, contains images of wildlife one might find here–or have found here before urban development.

I love this mural in Mission Valley. I remember driving through the intersection at Qualcomm Way and Camino de la Reina years ago, and seeing a whole bunch of people painting wild river animals along the ugly low wall. A little research today tells me that memory was from late 2009.

“River Life” was completed by almost 200 volunteers over four days. The design came from artist Lori Escalera. It’s one of of six murals (so far) that the San Diego River Park Foundation has helped to create. I’ve featured others on my blog. Here are some links if you want to check out more of the beautiful San Diego River murals…

Creative kids paint San Diego River Estuary mural.

San Diego River animals gather under city bridge.

Ribbon of life mural by the San Diego River.

Faded public art glows by neglected river trail.

The left end of a long, colorful mural in Mission Valley. Birds of the air and water are featured here. The art was designed by Lori Escalera in 2009.
The left end of a long, colorful mural in Mission Valley. Birds of the air and water are featured here. The art was designed by Lori Escalera in 2009.
IA heron, hummingbird and frog. Down by the beautiful River Trail, just south of where we stand, many different birds can be spotted on the quiet surface of the San Diego River, and in reeds and tree branches.
A heron, hummingbird and frog. Down by the beautiful River Trail, just north of where we stand, many different birds can be spotted on the quiet surface of the San Diego River, and in thick reeds and overhanging tree branches.
A butterfly, a fox (peeking from behind a transformer box on Camino de la Reina) and a raccoon.
A butterfly, a fox (peeking from behind a transformer box on Camino de la Reina) and a raccoon.
Some sort of lizard--perhaps a Gila monster--is half hidden by leaves, while a rattlesnake coils nearby!
Some sort of lizard–perhaps a Gila monster–is half hidden by leaves, while a rattlesnake coils nearby!
A jackrabbit and wild coyote.
A jackrabbit and wild coyote.
A skunk and perhaps kitten bobcats.
A skunk and perhaps kitten bobcats.
I recognize a squirrel, but I'm not sure about the other animal whose eyes seem to be glowing in the dark.
I recognize a squirrel, but I’m not sure about the other animal whose eyes seem to be glowing in the dark.
I believe that's a Red-winged Blackbird and a moth.
I believe that’s a Red-winged Blackbird and a moth.
Looks to me like a toad and a beetle. If you can accurately identify these creatures, feel free to leave a quick comment!
Looks to me like a toad and a beetle. If you can accurately identify these creatures, feel free to leave a quick comment!
That looks to me like a turtle--or a tortoise! It's obvious I still have a whole lot to learn!
That looks to me like a turtle–or a tortoise! It’s obvious this blogger still has a whole lot to learn!

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!

Amazing animal bronzes at San Diego Museum of Art!

Dog Gnawing Bone, Arthur Putnam, 1904. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Dog Gnawing Bone, Arthur Putnam, 1904. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.

Wow! I enjoyed another awesome visit to the San Diego Museum of Art last weekend, courtesy of my docent friend Catherine! She provided a spellbinding tour of several exhibits!  The one I liked most–possibly because I love animals and because the artist has a San Diego connection–concerned the bronze sculptures of Arthur Putnam.

The exhibition, titled Ferocious Bronze, features artwork so utterly amazing that Arthur Putnam has been called the American Rodin. He was such a gifted sculptor that his pieces have sometimes been mistaken for those of Frederic Remington. Most of his bronzes depict animals in the wild:  hunting, in mortal combat, at play or at rest.

Arthur Putnam lived from 1873–1930 and was considered one of the greatest sculptors of his era. At the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco he won a coveted Gold Medal.  During his lifetime his work was exhibited in major cities, including New York, Chicago, Paris and Rome. Many of his monumental public sculptures still stand in San Francisco, Monterey and San Diego.

Check out these photos! They provide a small taste of what you’ll experience should you visit Ferocious Bronze. You can get an idea of Putnam’s tremendous artistry. The superb realism is partly due to the fact that he personally loved the outdoors, and spent many days observing animals in the wild and at zoos. A mostly self-taught artist, Putnam even worked for a brief time at a slaughterhouse. (Yuck!)

Did I mention Arthur Putnam’s unique San Diego connection? His very first commission was from newspaper magnate E. W. Scripps, which he received at the Scripps Ranch located in Miramar. In addition, two of Putnam’s monumental works stand today near the spot where San Diego was founded–the very place where European civilization took root in California.

(I’ve included my own photos of the two large bronze sculptures that stand on San Diego’s Presidio Hill.  I wrote a blog several years ago that concerned an interesting walk past these sculptures.)

Ferocious Bronze, curated by Dr. James Grebl, showcases 28 of Putnam’s amazing animal pieces.  They were selected from the over 100 pieces that the San Diego Museum of Art has in their collection. This special exhibit was inspired by another Balboa Park institution: the world famous San Diego Zoo! They are now celebrating their centennial year!

If you happen to be in San Diego, and if you love fine art or have a special place in your heart for wild animals, I recommend that you head over to see Ferocious Bronze at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park! This very cool exhibition runs through October 11, 2016.

Big Combat, Arthur Putnam, undated. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Big Combat, Arthur Putnam, undated. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Ambling Bear, Arthur Putnam, 1910. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Ambling Bear, Arthur Putnam, 1910. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Fighting Buffalo, Arthur Putnam, 1900. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Fighting Buffalo, Arthur Putnam, 1900. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Lynx Ready to Spring, Arthur Putnam, 1909. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Lynx Ready to Spring, Arthur Putnam, 1909. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
The Indian, Arthur Putnam, 1905. This amazing sculpture stands today on San Diego's Presidio Hill beneath the Serra Museum.
The Indian, Arthur Putnam, 1905. This amazing sculpture stands on San Diego’s Presidio Hill beneath the Serra Museum.
The Padre, Arthur Putnam, 1908. This sculpture stands among some trees on San Diego's Presidio Hill beneath the Serra Museum.
The Padre, Arthur Putnam, 1908. This sculpture stands among some trees on San Diego’s Presidio Hill beneath the Serra Museum.
Wild Cat, Arthur Putnam, 1908. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.
Wild Cat, Arthur Putnam, 1908. Photo courtesy San Diego Museum of Art.

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!

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