River Otters need unpolluted waters to thrive so you shouldn't be surprised that they are doing well here on the Mendonoma Coast. They can be seen near local rivers and creeks. Jean Brown spotted one recently.
Here's a fun photo by Gary Hopkins of a Gull and a River Otter exchanging glances.
The River Otter is probably warning the Gull not to try and steal its food. My bet is on the Otter!
Thanks to Jean and Gary for allowing me to share their photos with you here.
Jean Brown recently photographed this Great Blue Heron. It was eating a Praying Mantis.
Great Blue Herons eat a wide variety of food. They have been seen fishing for fish, frogs and salamanders. They also eat small mammals, insects like this hapless Praying Mantis and even greens.
Thanks to Jean for allowing me to share her photo with you here. To see a Praying Mantis in happier times, here's the link: http://www.mendonomasightings.com/2011/10/07/two-photos-of-a-praying-mantis-from-coastal-photographer-siegfried-matull/
And to see the graceful Heron in flight, here is one of my favorite photos taken by Allen Vinson: http://www.mendonomasightings.com/2012/07/06/great-blue-heron-so-graceful-in-flight/