San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary

I have been sent to Irvine for work and found myself with a few hours this morning. A quick Internet search led me to the Sea and Sage Audubon Society's San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary...and it is just a few blocks south of the Marriott where I am staying! BELL'S VIREO was very vocal but difficult to photograph...maybe I'll get some shots tomorrow. This ALLEN'S HUMMINGBIRD landed right next to me and seemed to be "licking his lips"!





As I returned to my car I almost stepped on this SAN DIEGO GOPHER SNAKE...scared the gopher out of me! I was looking up into the trees as I walked and by the time my eyes landed on this guy, I was a mere 2 feet away. This impressive snake measured approximately two and a half feet long and didn't seem too bothered by me. I really like the Alice Cooper eye makeup!





I didn't have time to visit the Audubon House but will return in the morning. There were AMERICAN AVOCETS and CINNAMON TEAL in the pond adjacent to the center seemingly unaware of the parking lot...I hope they are there tomorrow.