A Sunny Start in the Desert

Trail View

Last weekend, we took a peaceful morning hike on the Moonlight Canyon Trail in Agua Caliente County Park. The 1.7-mile loop is an easy stroll through a gorgeous desert canyon, and the warm, sunny weather made for a great start to the day. Surrounded by rugged hills and desert plants, we set off in high spirits, eager to see what kind of birds we might spot.

Trail View

Hummingbirds and Verdins

Costa’s Hummingbird

Almost immediately, we were greeted by the zippy movements of Costa’s Hummingbirds, flashing their purple crowns in the sunlight as they hovered near desert blooms.

Ocotillo

Just as active were the Verdins, hopping through the bushes with their tiny bodies and bright yellow heads adding a splash of color to the dry landscape.

Verdin

A Thrasher’s Song

California Thrasher

Partway along the trail, we heard the bold, melodic song of a California Thrasher echoing through the canyon. It perched on a high branch, silhouetted against the blue sky, and delivered a beautiful performance that made us stop and just listen for a while.

Overlook

Warblers in the Brush

Nashville Warbler

We encountered many Nashville Warblers, flitting quickly between branches in small, active flocks. Their yellow bellies and distinctive eye rings made them easy to pick out among the greenery. Alongside them, a quieter Orange-crowned Warbler darted through the shrubs, staying mostly out of sight but still a welcome find.

Orange-crowned Warbler

Quail Parade

California Quail

One of the most fun moments of the hike was spotting a group of California Quails scuttling across the trail. Their little topknots bobbed with every step, and we couldn’t help but smile watching them hustle along like a family late for an appointment.

Overlook

A Majestic Surprise

Golden Eagle

As we climbed a gentle rise in the trail, we looked up and spotted a Golden Eagle soaring overhead. It glided effortlessly on the thermals, its massive wings casting a shadow over the canyon floor. Watching it circle above us was a highlight of the day—an incredible sight against the bright sky.

Trail View

Canyon Voices

Ash-throated Flycatcher

As we neared the end of the loop, we spotted an Ash-throated Flycatcher perched on a branch, its soft calls adding to the desert’s soundscape. A Black-throated Gray Warbler also made an appearance, its striking black-and-white markings standing out against the muted desert tones.

Black-throated Gray Warbler

A Splash of Color

Bullock’s Oriole

Just before we finished the trail, we caught a glimpse of a female Bullock’s Oriole in a nearby tree. Her soft orange tones and graceful movement were a perfect way to wrap up our birdwatching for the day.

Trail View

Nearby, a Black-headed Grosbeak gave us a quick look as it flew off into the brush.

Black-headed Grosbeak

A Canyon Full of Life

Overlook

The Moonlight Canyon Trail may be a short and easy walk, but it delivered a full morning of birds, sunshine, and desert charm.

Zebra-tailed lizard

With each turn of the trail offering something new, it was a lovely way to connect with nature and share a quiet adventure together. We’re already looking forward to returning.

Desert agave