I started my month by adding Magnolia Warbler and Cassin's Vireo to my life list of birds and also a Roseate Dragonfly to my insect list. An Osprey posed at the nature center on my volunteer day. They are magnificent birds and their call cannot be denied. I was also lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the usually shy Least Bittern. As the fall migration of warblers slowed down, toward the mid to latter part of the month, I sought other outings.

It is too early for Gray Whale migration, but I took a whale watch cruise to see dolphin and seals.

There was not much happening on my butterfly count, but I love being outdoors and in the company of such good people.  A new-to-me jumping spider was a nice find.

To celebrate our 25th anniversary, my husband and I spent a couple of nights in Idyllwild, CA at a charming B&B. We discovered a wonderful nature center nearby with a a very interesting museum/gift shop and lovely hiking trails. We enjoyed the autumnal colors and mountain birds.

I went on a loooong day of birding with Pasadena Audubon. We stopped at eight locations in one day tracking down several 'prized' birds. We heard the Pygmy Owl and saw at great distance the Mountain Plover. Alas, no photos of those. It was a lovely autumn day and I was very happy to discover some new birding areas. St. Andrews Priory was a highlight for overall beauty.

Watch the slideshows or click on the links to look through at your own pace.

Enjoy the show! I always appreciate corrections to ID's.

Local stuff:  http://kimssight.zenfolio.com/new_nov_2016

Dolphins and Seals : http://kimssight.zenfolio.com/whale_watch_nov_2016

Irvine Ranch Conservancy monthly butterfly count: http://kimssight.zenfolio.com/irc_nov_2016

Idyllwild, CA: http://kimssight.zenfolio.com/idyllwild_nov_2016

North Slope of the San Gabriels: http://kimssight.zenfolio.com/north_slope_san_gabriels_nov_2016