The year’s meteor showers begin with Lyrids, named for Lyra, the harp constellation. Fog permitting, they will appear between April 16 and 25, peaking overnight on April 21 at about 20 an hour. Look to the eastern sky after midnight. The Lyrids overlap with the Eta Aquarids, which run from April 15 to May 27. The full moon rises on April 23. Colonial Americans called it the “planters’ moon,” referring to the time when crops that need longer growing seasons are set out.
Spring has truly arrived when the dogwood blooms off the Bear Valley Trail just a brisk 15 minutes in on the left, across the creek. The tree’s spire of white flowers stands out against the emerald forest. It is best viewed at a distance, as getting a closer look would require wading and bushwhacking through thick vegetation.
Spring bird nesting is underway. Osprey are adding sticks to their massive nests in the Bear Valley woods. Keep an eye out for smaller birds that may be trailing wisps of grass and twigs as they fly off to build new homes. Snowy plovers are laying eggs directly onto the sand along areas of the Great Beach. Dog walkers should check the seashore website for closures to protect this fragile species.