The full moon of Wednesday, Feb. 16 brings mid-morning extra-high tides and late-afternoon low tides. In Chinese tradition, the moon is called the “Budding Moon,” as fruit trees begin to bud in warmer air. Catkins are forming on willows around White House Pool, and the springlike weather will bring more blossoms. The lemon-yellow fluffy pompons of acacia, or mimosa, trees are blooming along Sir Francis Drake.
A great blue heron expertly hunting gophers is a familiar sight around Bear Valley. In past years, herons have nested in the nearby fir trees, but there are no signs of them this year. Luckily, there are plenty of gophers to hunt: I have both seen and heard tell a red-tailed hawk swooping down to grab them from the herons. Herons are monogamous during the year but may choose new partners each year.
The northern elephant seal season is full on, and typically February is the height of activity. Park staff report a record number of females this year in coves around the headlands. The first pup was born in December, so the month-long nursing period will soon end for some pups and they will be weaned. As the females return to sea, watch for mating behavior and sparring.