Tag Archives: Santa Ynez Mountains

Grouch of the Woods

The tentacular limbs of coast live oak trees in the Los Padres National Forest. “The presence of a jostling crowd. . .a familiar irritation to be borne with resignation.” —Edward Abbey, Desert Solitaire It’s not that he hated people. He … Continue reading →

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Gooseberry Wildcraft

California gooseberry illustration from Pacific Rural Press (1873). “The California wild gooseberry, red variety (Ribes menziesii), is certainly a desirable variety, and is said to be superior to crabapples for jellies, etc. The plant is exceedingly ornamental when loaded with … Continue reading →

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Flight of the Condor, Rare Santa Barbara Roost

A condor over Sespe Wilderness in December, 2013. (Return to Whiteacre Peak Or Day of the Condor) Earlier this month I stood on a ridge along Arroyo Burro Trail gazing from afar into the rocky mouth of San Roque Canyon … Continue reading →

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The Los Padres Box Of Chocolates

Humboldt lily growing in Los Padres National Forest. “Sometimes I feel so uninspired Sometimes I feel like giving up Sometimes I feel so very tired Sometimes I feel like I’ve had enough” —Steve Winwood, Traffic – “(Sometimes I Feel So) … Continue reading →

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Fritillaria Ojaiensis, Rare Wildflower

A single Fritillaria ojaiensis growing along Fremont Trail in the Santa Ynez Mountains. This photo is from early spring 2014. This variety of lily is endemic to California. It’s listed by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) as being rare … Continue reading →

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