A Tranquil Morning at Santee Lakes

Double-crested Cormorant

Last weekend, we set out for a relaxing hike along the Santee Lakes Trail in Santee, CA. This easy 3.5-mile loop winds around a series of beautiful lakes, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Overlook

The weather was mostly sunny, with a few clouds drifting through the sky, making for a perfect morning outdoors.

Overlook

Cormorants and Swallows in Flight

Double-crested Cormorants

As we began our walk, we immediately spotted a group of Double-crested Cormorants perched on a rock, some drying their wings while others watched the water below.

American Wigeon

Overhead, Northern Rough-winged Swallows zipped through the air, darting over the lake’s surface as they snatched insects mid-flight. Their aerial acrobatics were mesmerizing to watch.

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Ducks and More Ducks

Ruddy Duck

The lakes were full of waterfowl, with Ruddy Ducks, Northern Shovelers, and a small group of American Wigeons paddling along the calm surface.

Northern Shoveler

Among them, we spotted a stunning pair of Wood Ducks, their vibrant plumage standing out against the more muted tones of the other ducks.

Wood Duck

Further along, Ring-necked Ducks floated peacefully, occasionally diving beneath the water.

Ring-necked Duck

Geese and a Hidden Gallinule

Canada Goose

As we continued, a pair of Canada Geese made their way across the trail, honking softly as they moved toward the water.

Common Gallinule

In the reeds, we caught a glimpse of a Common Gallinule, its bright red facial shield making it easy to spot as it foraged along the shoreline. Nearby, a Pied-billed Grebe surfaced briefly before diving again, disappearing beneath the rippling water.

Pied-billed Grebe

Elegant Waders and Small Songbirds

Great Egret

A Great Egret stood gracefully at the water’s edge, its white feathers glowing in the sunlight. Near the trees, a Nuttall’s Woodpecker clung to a branch, tapping away as it searched for insects.

Nuttall’s Woodpecker

A Western Flycatcher flitted between branches, pausing just long enough for us to get a good look.

Western Flycatcher

A Splash of Color

Cinnamon Teal

One of the highlights of the hike was spotting a pair of Cinnamon Teals, their rich chestnut-colored feathers adding a brilliant contrast to the blue water.

Overlook

Not far away, an Anna’s Hummingbird hovered near some flowers, its iridescent feathers shimmering in the sunlight.

Anna’s Hummingbird

Bluebirds and Phoebes

Say’s Phoebe

On a nearby post, a Say’s Phoebe sat calmly, scanning the ground below.

Overlook

In a nearby tree, a pair of Western Bluebirds perched together, their bright blue and rusty-orange colors standing out against the greenery. Watching them made for a peaceful moment along the trail.

Western Bluebird

A Giant Among the Birds

American White Pelican

As we neared the end of our hike, we were thrilled to spot an American White Pelican gliding effortlessly across the water. These massive birds are always a spectacular sight with their bright orange bills and broad wings.

American Coot

Meanwhile, hundreds of American Coots bobbed along the water, their constant movements creating ripples across the surface. Just as we were about to leave, a Great-tailed Grackle landed near us, its glossy black feathers shining in the sunlight as it called out with its sharp, distinctive cry.

Great-tailed Grackle

A Perfect Morning Walk

Overlook

Our time on the Santee Lakes Trail was a wonderful way to spend the morning. The mix of beautiful scenery, abundant birdlife, and calm atmosphere made it a truly enjoyable experience.

Pond Slider

With so much activity along the water, we left feeling refreshed and excited for our next local adventure.

Toyon