We went to Ellwood Beach and visited the monarchs. The docent that was there said the estimate was over 21,000 butterflies and more to come. They have a fascinating life. This is their wintering ground. It's amazing that three to four generations from these, they'll return next year. How do they do that?? Read about monarchs here.
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| Clumps of roosting butterflies in the eucalyptus trees. |
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| Closer view of clumps |
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| A little sun on this clump. |
After enjoying the butterflies, we went to Coal Oil Point. We had a mega-low tide today at a perfect time: 3:30 in the afternoon. It was a -1.6 tide, which is about as low as it goes!
Here are shapes and critters.
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| A miniature geology lesson |
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| Tracks. Crab? I don't know. |
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| A surf crab. |
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| In a few hours, the surf grass will be gracefully waving in the water. |
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| Anemoneeville. |
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| Self-portrait |
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| A couple little hermit crabs. |
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| A chiton |
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| A big limpet |
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| Kevin in one of his favorite spear fishing spots! He loves to wait for fish along this rock! It's a little different when it's high and dry! |
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| A sea cucumber |
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| A field of sea grass and many other tide-poolers enjoying the beautiful fall day |
When you come and visit, let's go tidepooling!
