Category Archives: reptiles & amphibians

Random Non-birds

Posted on September 26, 2021 by John Rakestraw

Here are a few images of various animals I have seen lately. When the birds refuse to pose for photos, it is nice to find other creatures that are more cooperative. As I have said, there is always something to … Continue reading →

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Wasco County

Posted on July 27, 2021 by John Rakestraw

Here are a few more images from my trip to central Oregon. The main purpose of the trip was to get the dogs away from the fireworks in Portland, but I always enjoy a trip to the dry side of … Continue reading →

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Scout Camp Loop Trail

Posted on July 8, 2021 by John Rakestraw

The Scout Camp Loop Trail is a lovely 2.2 mile hike northwest of Terrebonne. It is not particularly birdy. I logged 11 species on my trip, and the top eBird list for this site is only 17. (eBird calls this … Continue reading →

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Some Non-avian Sightings

Posted on June 15, 2021 by John Rakestraw

While I am usually looking specifically for birds, I enjoy whatever wildlife I encounter along the way. I don’t spend a lot of effort looking for butterflies, but I do appreciate it when one poses for me. This is a … Continue reading →

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North Portland

Posted on May 27, 2021 by John Rakestraw

Our team for the Audubon Society of Portland’s Birdathon birded several sites in the northern parts of Portland. The weather was cool and rainy, not conducive to photography or bird activity, but we ended our efforts with 76 species for … Continue reading →

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Still Waiting

Posted on May 18, 2021 by John Rakestraw

Every spring, birders suggest that the migration is running a little late. I think a lot  of that feeling just comes from a desire to see spring migrants again. But this year, a lot of species are arriving noticeably late. … Continue reading →

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Cooper Mountain

Posted on April 29, 2021 by John Rakestraw

I went to Cooper Mountain Nature Park in Beaverton primarily to look for herps, but the birds were a lot more cooperative. White-crowned Sparrows were singing everywhere. Chipping Sparrows nest at higher elevations, but a few can be found in … Continue reading →

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Smith and Bybee Wetlands

Posted on April 10, 2021 by John Rakestraw

I went out to Smith and Bybee Wetlands in north Portland. This site can be a little challenging to bird, as the noise from Marine Drive makes it difficult to hear bird song and other natural sounds. But as you … Continue reading →

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Still Waiting for the Birds

Posted on April 1, 2021 by John Rakestraw

Spring migration has not really picked up yet. There are a few new avian arrivals, but birding remains pretty slow. But, as I often say, there is always something to look at, so here are some non-avian images. The Beaver … Continue reading →

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Late Winter Ramblings

Posted on March 22, 2021 by John Rakestraw

Birding has been rather slow lately, as many of the winter residents have moved on and the spring migrants haven’t arrived yet. The local nesters, like this Spotted Towhee are becoming more active and vocal. A remnant of last autumn’s … Continue reading →

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