Swan Lake Nature Study Area.

Don't ask me why, but I somehow liked these foxtails swaying in the breeze. They were really kind of pretty.




It is a miracle to have one of these butterflies sit still long enough to get a halfway decent picture.




A lizard decided to pose for the camera.




I like this closeup.




The purple thistles were out in full bloom.




A view of the "lake."





One of the avocets.




I believe these birds are avocets.




This bird managed to stay still for a couple of pictures.




This is how tall the reeds were at eye level.





Boardwalk where visitors can look out in the pond at the wildlife.





Out towards Stead airport is this marsh area called Swan Lake Nature Study Area. There are a wide variety of birds here besides swans. I didn't see any swans today; no doubt they were hiding in the marsh.

According to one hiking book, the trail is supposed to be 1.5 miles out and back, but I think it is more like 1.5 miles one way. Although my leg was hurting because I pulled a thigh muscle, I still think the trail altogether was further.