Tag Archives: John Sperry

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Storms to our north are bringing big waves to the Mendonoma Coast. Surfers are enjoying them, that's for sure! I love to hear the waves crashing on the off-shore rocks, beaches and bluffs. Even though I am a half mile back from the Pacific Ocean, the sound carries easily.

John Sperry captured this photo in the Timber Cove area of Sonoma County. He entitled it thusly: "Sea Gods are angry. Gull maintains its grace." Can you spot the lone Gull in John's photo? Many thanks to John for allowing me to share his photo here.

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Fringed Corn Lilies, Veratrum fimbriatum, are rare, growing in shaded, moist areas on the Sonoma and Mendocino Coasts. The plant's leaves are quite beautiful when they emerge in the spring. Fringed Corn Lilies are beginning to bloom as we head for the first day of autumn. The leaves now show wear and tear, but the beautiful blossom rises above it all.

I have two pictures of the blossom to share with you. First John Sperry's photo, showing the fresh blossom and the riddled leaves.

And next is Nan Brichetto's close-up photo of the blossom.

And if you'd like to see the leaves as they looked this spring, you can click on this link to an April posting here on Mendonoma Sightings! http://www.mendonomasightings.com/2011/04/08/fringed-corn-lily-leaves-a-rare-mendonoma-plant/

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I am fascinated by Dragonflies and Damselflies. When you view them up close you can see their intricate designs and sparkling colors - they are living jewels. These insects have six legs, like all other insects, but they can't walk well. But, boy, are they fast fliers! They are found near water and are beneficial in that they eat mosquitoes, flies and other small insects. How can you tell the male and female apart? The Dragonfly holds his wings out perpendicular to his body when at rest. The Damselfly holds her wings together just above her body. If you can get close enough, the males eyes touch, while the females eyes are apart.

John Sperry photographed a Common Whitetail Dragonfly and has kindly allowed me to share it with you.

And if you'd like to see a Flame Skimmer, click on the link below.

http://www.mendonomasightings.com/2011/07/24/a-dragonfly-a-flame-skimmer-visited-my-garden/

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The late rains have given the Mendonoma Coast a fantastic wildflower season. Wild rhododendrons and azaleas continue to bloom in abundance though today's wind won't be kind to them. Salt Point State Park is in Sonoma County is one of my favorite parks. It spans many miles on both sides of Highway One. (Note to our elected leaders: To have this or any state park closed is a travesty.) John Sperry kindly allowed me to share his photo of the wildflowers now blooming on the bluffs.