While we were somewhat in a rush, we did not forget to stop at a few points along the way.
If you look at the middle of the horizon on this image, you can see the UCSB Clock Tower from Route 154 (along with all the islands and other interesting landmarks)
Shot of the valleys. Notice the reflection on the mirror.
View of Santa Barbara from Route 154.
Route 154 at the pull-off for Los Olivos.
As mentioned in my previous post, one of the endangered species that inhabits the Rancho Guadalupe Dunes is the Western Snowy Plover, or “Frailecito” (Little Friar). In Venezuela, these birds have earned the name Frailecito due to their dark beady eyes, tucked under a sandy brown hood. These quiet, easy-going birds spend their time observing others go by while tucking away in sand dimples, driftwood, and speckled rocks.
Click image to enlarge.
The Western Snowy Plover is truly a joy to watch, especially as they feed. I can only hope to find the time to come back during their breeding season which is around the late spring to early summer. More information can be found on the Western Snowy Plover at http://www.westernsnowyplover.org/
Taking a drive through Route 166 from the 5 North, we decided to take a detour through the Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve. This preserve is a beautiful stretch of beach which is home to many type of animals, including some endangered species.
Walking just a few steps from the parking lot gives one the feeling that they’ve arrived on another planet.
This vantage point provides a clear view of the Santa Maria River and Valley from the Dunes.
Seagulls flying over the Santa Maria River
This part of the Santa Maria River’s terrain is like a marsh. If you look on the horizon of the image, you can actually see where the river meets the ocean.
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