VIEWS OF EL REFUGIO

Bird watching is a popular hobby.  Here, at El Refugio, Elena Roché's family can observe local birds out of almost every window as well as in the garden at any time of day.  The artist's children participate in refilling birdfeeders, cooking hummingbird syrup and rescuing birds in distress.

Hooded Oriole on Jacaranda Branches

These birds come to El Refugio in spring and nest in dry fronds of the palm trees.  They and Spotted Towhees are the most colorful birds around.

Golden-crowned Sparrow

Bathing California Towhee

This is probably the most common bird around El Refugio.

See Painting Bathing Place

 Hummingbird Perching on Bougainville

Humming Birds are permanent residents at El Refugio.  Year round blooming plants provide nourishment and cover.

Mockingbird in the Jacaranda tree canopy

California Towhee perched on Bougainville

A Pair of California Quail

Families of California Quail come to scratch in the rich and moist soil of El Refugio gardens.  Bunches of quail chicks follow their mothers as they move from place to place.  It is a lovely sight, every time.

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Every spring Mr. and Mrs. Flycatcher come to the same spot under the tile roof of El Refugio to build their nest.  They share the roof with other residents like House Finches, Barn Swallows and Lesser Gold Finches.

California Towhee nesting in the spider plant

Humming Birds Special, Cooked Fresh Twice a Week

Elena was given this Humming Bird feeder for Mother's Day.  Soon it became very popular among local humming birds.  The feeder now hangs right outside of Elena's Studio window were constant appearances of humming birds gets the attention of the artist and her students.

Mourning Dove Nesting in the Grape Vine Arbor

So shy and delicate, Mourning Dove is more often heard then seen.  It was a real treat for the artist's family to watch this one nest in the grape arbor.

House Finches Checking  Apricots for Readiness

See Painting The Thief

Return to El Refugio Wildlife Habitat page

Elena's Biography

Visitors since June 12, 2008   

El Refugio, Copyright © 2008 Warren and Elena Roché  All Rights Reserved