Starting the Day Outdoors

Overlook

Last weekend, we spent the morning exploring the Oak Oasis Open Space Preserve near San Diego. Even though it was a very warm July morning, we were excited to get out on the trail and see what birds we might find.

Overlook

A Relaxed Nature Walk

Overlook

The 2.8-mile trail is easy in difficulty, making it an enjoyable hike for taking things at a comfortable pace. The gentle route gave us plenty of opportunities to stop, scan the trees, and listen for birds.

Anna's Hummingbird

A Landscape Full of Summer Color

Trail View

The preserve's mix of oak trees, shrubs, and open spaces created a beautiful setting for a midsummer hike. Even with the warm temperatures, the natural surroundings made for a pleasant morning outdoors.

Overlook

Hummingbirds on the Move

Anna's Hummingbird

A few Anna's Hummingbirds kept us company throughout the hike, darting quickly between flowering plants and nearby branches. Their constant movement always makes them fun to watch.

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Familiar Backyard Favorites

California Towhee

We also spotted a California Towhee foraging near the trail and a Mourning Dove perched quietly nearby. Seeing these familiar birds added to the peaceful atmosphere of the preserve.

Mourning Dove

A Woodpecker at Work

Nuttall's Woodpecker

One of the highlights was watching a Nuttall's Woodpecker as it searched for food along the trunk of an oak tree. It spent several minutes moving up and around the bark before disappearing deeper into the woods.

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Catching Insects in Flight

Western Flycatcher

We were happy to spot a Western Flycatcher patiently perched on a branch, waiting for the perfect moment to dart out after insects. Nearby, a Bewick's Wren moved energetically through the brush, never staying in one place for long.

Bewick's Wren

Finding Comfort in the Shade

Trail View

As the morning warmed up, we appreciated every shaded section of the trail beneath the oak trees. Those cooler stretches gave us a chance to slow down, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and spend a little more time looking and listening for birds before continuing on.

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Another Great Morning Together

Trail View

By the time we finished the hike, we were reminded that even a shorter trail can offer memorable wildlife encounters.

Trail View

The warm summer weather, peaceful surroundings, and enjoyable bird sightings made this another wonderful adventure for the two of us.

Bunny ears prickly-pear