#Bolsa Chica State Beach

[nomadpack]

Bolsa Chica State Beach is a popular getaway for beach bums, surfers and fishermen alike.

[northameicanblog]

Huntington Beach, California: Huntington Beach is a seaside city in Orange County in Southern California, United States. The city is named after American businessman Henry E. Huntington. Located 35 miles southeast of Downtown Los Angeles, it is bordered by Bolsa Chica Basin State Marine Conservation Area on the west. Wikipedia

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from ABC News:

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is offering a reward for information regarding the shooting of a California sea lion.

The sea lion in question was found alive between lifeguard stations 22 and 23 at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Orange County, California on August 7. Though the Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescued the animal, it died from its injuries the following day. An examination revealed that the 2-year-old sea lion had a fresh gunshot wound in its back.

“Law enforcement is seeking information on the person who shot the animal and any other details surrounding its shooting,” wrote the NOAA in a press release. The NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement is offering up to $20,000 for any information that leads to a civil penalty or criminal conviction.

“The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits the harassment, hunting, capturing, or killing of sea lions and other marine mammals,” officials said. “However, the law allows for non-lethal methods to deter marine mammals from damaging private property, including fishing gear and catch, if it does not injure or kill an animal.”

Like all marine mammals, the California sea lion is protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act which has helped their population to continue increasing since at least 1975, after protections were put in place under the MMPA.

“California sea lions are easy to view in the wild, but this puts them at higher risk of human-related injuries and death. Feeding or trying to feed them is harmful and illegal, because it changes their natural behaviors and makes them less wary of people and vessels,” the NOAA said. “They learn to associate humans with an easy meal and change their natural hunting practices—for example, they take bait catch directly off fishing gear. Sometimes they fall victim to retaliation (such as shooting) by frustrated boaters and fishermen.”

[blackboyart]

Taxonomy of the Birds

  At Bolsa Chica, the aroma of the beach is everlasting during the visit. The smell of saltwater clashes with the whiff of ocean swamp. There is a vehicular hum from the Pacific Coast Highway in the background. I arrive just before dawn as herds of Marbled Godwit (Limosa fedoa) race through the mudflats at the cuff of the water's edge clinging to the glistening ripples, moving with a pulse and rhythm to the waves. When taking a break along the linear trail that stretches for miles one notices the western sandpipers (Calidris mauri) darting about in colonies surgically pounding the mudflats for their next meal of crustaceans and invertebrates. I notice Earth is teeming with life. 

According to Audubon, figures are raking in close to 10,500 different bird species. To make sense of identifying the plethora of species that exist a philosopher named Aristotle pioneered a taxonomy system. A system later refined in the 18th century by Carl Linnaeus, a Swiss botanist. Over the past century, the world has become more connected than ever, and scientists have found ways to make sense of the totality. An event made possible using fossil records, behaviors, genetic egg protein, and there is even a formula conjured up about thigh muscles that categorize species of birds. It is safe to say biologists have gotten classification down to a science. 

Taxonomy is the biological classification of species including eight sections. The system is used for both animals and plants as a means of identification. The taxonomy starts with the beginning, a basic cellular structure of life: called the Domain. Birds are eukaryotes, cells with a membrane and organelles. The next category is the kingdom which is the evolutionary history of cells. Then comes the phyla which are grouped by traits. The taxonomy system has a category named class which is about attributes such as reproductive process.

The bird class is named Aves. After class comes order which is how taxa rank each species lineage. A group called family involves species closely related together based on descendants. After the family section is genus and there can be over a hundred different types of one genus. Lastly, species is the scientific name singularity of the animal in nomenclature form. An example of this classification process is Domain: Eukaryote, Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Pelecaniformes, Family: Peleciandae, Genus: Pelecanus, and Species: Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis). 

I had the wonderful opportunity to interview David Sibley, an author and illustrator whose work influenced and inspired millions of people. David Sibley is making discoveries through the illustrations that show the differences between distinguishing features, subspecies, and even variations. Sibley used extensive research and natural observations to discover at least a dozen records of European sandwich terns in North America scattered all over the Northeast. Also, inland in the Great Lakes and one as far West Colorado. He states and I quote “Sandwich terns are occurring quite regularly in the Northeast.”

  In response to my question on the elaboration for the importance of taxonomy, a system aimed at benefiting the conglomerate that lives in each ecosystem. Sibley offers a persuasive statement: He said, and I quote. 

“Taxonomy is the framework of everything we study about birds. It's the structure, everything else hangs on. Understanding taxonomy, the relationship between species, genera, families, and order is the framework that helps you understand the difference between a wren and a thrasher, a sparrow and a finch. Sparrows and finches though they are superficially similar, often brown and streaky with thick bills there are so many differences between those two groups and similarities within the group. Finches often perch in the open, they call a lot in flight, and they travel in flocks. Sparrows are down in the weeds and the bushes, they do not call a lot in flight, and they do not sit up top in the treetops, usually, there are so many other things that distinguish them. The taxonomy, the grouping of related species is what makes sense of all that variation. 

I really think it is critical and I do not subscribe to any of these ideas of reorganizing the bird book in a way that tries to put similar-looking species together unrelated to taxonomy. Taxonomy is really the fundamental difference. You have a cardinal and a tanager. They are both red, however, they are in different genera, they are distantly related and there are so many differences between them that are much more fundamental than their color. That was my soapbox about taxonomy.”

The number of animals can seem infinite to possibilities making the number of species close to that. Taxonomy sheds light on the primordial history that birds conceal revealing similar traits such as beak formation and feeding styles that directional selection could not dissipate. The taxonomy system has a lot of information to offer. A chronological data point that tells a change on the planet that results in divergence in genetics. However, through taxonomy, I noticed some species that come from the same order which is Pelecaniformes interact more often. 

  In the year 2023, I saw a pack of white pelicans (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) offshore at Bolsa Chica drying before the sunset to glide off into the distance. I would see birds after their long day of hunting the land for food reside in groups of alternating species. There are several cormorants (Phalacrocorax auratus) near the edges of the shore to. These two species are linked through some historical migration of verbal rituals. 

When looking closely one can see that the cormorant bill has the same hook towards the end followed by a gular pouch that pelicans have. Both are pelagic birds using the ocean for habitat and as a food source. Pelicans, cormorants, and even boobies are related to a taxonomy group titled order: Pelecaniformes. Furthermore, based on taxonomy records it makes sense that some species congregate closer together than others. This observation gives insight into a story that is still alive.

Traditionally, birds are classified by comparing their roots, so let us look at methods such as analyzing the proteins in the whites of their eggs. Species have shared traits because most animals come from a similar point of rooted ancestry. Flamingos have been in a taxa debate by scientists for a long time over their resemblance to storks, however, their egg protein puts them closer to herons.

  The Condor published a paper in 1969, describing scientists Charles and Corbin preparing samples for electrophoresis. Egg white proteins were obtained from the thin egg white of freshly incubated eggs and stored at 4 degrees Celsius before use. The starch-gel is powered by electrophoresis, a positive and negative cathode.  In addition to the variation observed in the total number of egg-white fractions, there were differences in the mobilities of the major proteins. 

On the starch gel, a researcher could visually see the reaction to proteins that are found in the eggs. In the herons and the flamingos, the ovotransferrin, an iron-binding glycoprotein found in eggs leaves a pattern based on the electric cathode. The results showed similar patterns on the starch gel making Flamingos more closely related  to herons than storks. I am not surprised by this intrigued state about embryonic development. Scientists separate embryonic traits defined as chordate within taxonomy which is defined as chordate. Chordata is a species that has a backbone, a notochord, during embryonic development. 

Currently, in the year 2023, researchers have made strides in Peptide fraction subjected to nano LC-MS/MS (Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) analysis. Initially, reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) stated the presence of 400 proteins in the egg white and 456 proteins in the egg yolk, and 371 and 428 proteins, respectively, were newly identified molecules reported for the first time. These methods of classification for bird eggs are detailed and have information that can help understand the species for conservation. 

The importance of saving species from extinction is critical for the future. Conservation efforts are made possible by a legitimate system of taxonomy. Birds, which help flowering plants get pollinated and seeds dispersed are an important asset to the network of life. Taxonomy is a system of aesthetics that seeps within the convulsions on earth. A process that prevents mishaps in the field such as waiting for a snowy Egret to turn into a Great Egret. 

Work cited:

Sibley, C.G., K.W. Corbin, and J.H. Haavie. "The relationships of the Flamingos as indicated by the egg-white proteins and hemoglobins." The Condor 71 (1969): 155–179.

Egg White and Yolk Protein Atlas: New Protein Insights of a Global Landmark Food - PMC (nih.gov)

19. D’Ambrosio C., Arena S., Scaloni A., Guerrier L., Boschetti E., Mendieta M.E., Citterio A., Righetti P.G. Exploring the chicken egg white proteome with combinatorial peptide ligand libraries. J. Proteome Res. 2008;7:3461–3474. doi: 10.1021/pr800193y. [PubMed] [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]

Toshihiro KITAMOTO, Masae NAKASHIMA, Atsushi IKAI, Hen Egg White Ovomacroglobulin Has a Protease Inhibitory Activity, The Journal of Biochemistry, Volume 92, Issue 5, October 1982, Pages 1679–1682, https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordjournals.jbchem.a134097

Driscoll, Sally. “Carl Linnaeus.” Carl Linnaeus, Aug. 2017, pp. 1–3. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ulh&AN=19617146&site=ehost-live&scope=site.

[senoritafish]

Reblogging just for history's sake. This extended down into southern CA too - power outages, downed trees everywhere, and roads washed out. Storm surges and king tides meant Hwy 1 at Bolsa Chica State Beach near me was closed not just because of rain flooding (as per usual, there's a low spot in the road there), but because of surf actually coming over the berm, across the parking lot and then flooding the road. This happened about three times just in January.

(Instagram video above)

Add this to cities where most people completely forget how to drive when it rains at all. The freeway warning signs said, "Severe weather expected - just stay home." and I have NEVER seen that before.

Flooding in a lot of places but still not quite as bad as the '84 El Nino that destroyed 2 local piers and the neighborhood across the highway from me was 3 ft. deep in the streets. Someone there who raised koi in their backyard was chasing his $1000 fish down the street with a net.

quick psa: if you're in northern california right now, we have a big storm coming. i study atmospheric rivers and for reference this is what they usually look like:

a storm like that will bring us most of the rain we get in a year. that storm in particular caused numerous road closures, landslides, floods, and evacuations. it was massive and it was damaging.

however, this is what this storm looks like:

hey we added two new levels to the scale! i usually never see these above 1200 (the measure is vapor transport in kg per meter integrated with time and depth.) and if you look closely you'll see that the date at the top is the prediction for five days from now, and it's going to rain for most of the days in between, so if you don't have a plan for loss of power and flooding and you live in northern california, you should get one. anyway, posting this in the time honored tradition of sharing news on tumblr faster than i see it on actual news websites. the sky isn't falling, but i would at least get some candles and non perishable food. maybe fill up some water jugs in case something wonky happens. tell friends and family what's going on before power goes out and you and a hundred thousand other people are trying to use the same cell tower at once, etc. stay safe out there!

[garcia1954]

My Steps Bolsa Chica State Beach Ca❤️

[mr-huntington-beach]

The Best Neighborhoods to Buy a Home in Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City USA", is a popular coastal city in Orange County, California. With its beautiful beaches, great weather, and a variety of amenities, it's no wonder why many people are looking to buy a home in this city. Here are the best neighborhoods to buy a home in Huntington Beach.

Downtown Huntington Beach: This neighborhood is known for its vibrant downtown area, where you'll find plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's also close to the beach and has a great walkability score. Homes in this area tend to be more expensive, but you'll be able to enjoy all the city has to offer.

Huntington Harbour: This neighborhood is located in the northwest part of the city and is known for its picturesque marina and waterfront homes. It's a great option for boating enthusiasts and those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle. Homes in this area tend to be a bit more affordable than those in downtown.

Bolsa Chica: This neighborhood is located in the southwest part of the city and is known for its large wetlands reserve and state beach. It's a great option for nature lovers and those looking for more space. Homes in this area tend to be more affordable than those in other parts of the city.

Huntington Beach is a great city to buy a home in with a variety of neighborhoods to choose from. Whether you're looking for a bustling downtown area, a laid-back waterfront lifestyle, or a nature lover, there is something for everyone.

When you are ready to buy or sell your home in Huntington Beach, consider Mr. Huntington Beach Real Estate as your go-to agent. With our expertise in the local market and our commitment to customer service, we can help you find the home of your dreams.

exp Realty of California Inc Lic 01991663 949-310-4110 Text "HUNTINGTON1" to 88000 to get a List of Off-Market Properties

https://mrhuntingtonbeachrealestate.com

[stevenbejarano]

TODAY from 1-4pm @beachcityprovisionsstore #rightnearthebeachboyee #beach #travel #summer #sea #nature #photography #sunset #love #beachlife #ocean #sun #photooftheday #instagood #beautiful #vacation #travelphotography #holiday #picoftheday #sky #instagram #beachvibes #landscape #travelgram #waves #photo #sand #like #naturephotography #surf (at Bolsa Chica State Beach) https://www.instagram.com/p/CnuyYHTScHG/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[dkt5d]

Looking forward to January Sunsets in 2022, Bolsa Chica State Beach.

[wingedjewels]

Say's Phoebe by Bill Halladay Via Flickr: Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

[rachel-rebellio]

throwback to this gorgeous sunset 😍 i miss the beach and watching the sunset so much. can't wait for my next beach day....

[firkinron]

Punk 'N Brew Rocks With Attitude

Punk ‘N Brew Rocks With Attitude

This past Saturday, a sold out crowd of almost 10,000 people gathered in Huntington Beach for beer and music. The Punk ‘N Brew Craft Beer and Music Festival delivered a wealth of tasty brews and musical attitude by several popular punk rock bands. The Punk ‘N Brew Huntington Beach festival was one of a six-city Punk In Drublic Craft Beer & Music Festival tour. NOFX’s frontman Fat Mike teamed up…

[senoritafish]

I had waited until midmorning for the tide to go down and the small waves to show a bit more strength. By 10:30 I had caught a few crumblers at the south end of Bolsa Chica State Beach and was paddling back out, when about 10 dolphins tore through the heavy crowd of surfers. One broke through the surface just a few feet ahead of me. “Whoa!” I said. They were racing north as fast as I’d ever seen.

Dolphins are a common sight in Huntington. But they usually saunter around, and swim fast only when they’re riding waves. When they do dart like that, it can be unnerving because they come alarmingly close, and at more than 300 pounds, they could cause a disastrous collision.

But I’ve never seen them make a mistake, so I just sat there and marveled for a minute. You could track them by watching the startled reaction of surfers as they moved up the coast....

The Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center in HB could use donations for oiled animals if you're nearby; they will likely be dealing with most of them. The oil also apparently went directly into the nearby Talbert Marsh, which has been being restored for a couple of decades. Now they may be back to square one.

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from EcoWatch:

Two illegal drones flew over the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve in May, and one crash-landed in the wetlands, causing 3,000 adult terns to flee. The seabirds left behind around 2,000 eggs.

"We've never seen such devastation here," said Melissa Loebl, an environmental scientist who manages the Huntington Beach reserve in a LA Times report. "This has been really hard for me as a manager."

All the tern eggs left behind are not viable, and the scientists are unsure of where the adult terns went. Terns are highly sensitive to threats and viewed the drone as a predator.

Eggs would've begun to crack this month, but now the sands of Huntington Beach are covered in eggshells, according to a report by The Guardian.

The terns abandoning their eggs is one of the largest abandonment of eggs ever seen at the coastal site, according to Loebl.

It is illegal to fly a drone over state reserves because of the risk of disturbing the wildlife, officer Nick Molsberry of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said to the Los Angeles Times.

As vaccinations roll out, and more people start to travel and leave the house, the number of visitors to the Bolsa Chica reserve has increased, according to The Guardian.

The escalation of traffic brings more drones, dogs and bicycles, all of which are prohibited on the reserves.

"We've seen a significant increase in dogs, particularly off-leash," Loebl said to The Guardian. "That's devastating for wildlife and this is prime nesting season. The dogs chase the birds and the birds abandon their nests."

Another concern for the 800 species, 23 of which have special status, that live on the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is the development of multimillion-dollar homes on the north end of the reserve.

"It's residents that sometimes feel entitled, that feel they should be able to use the land as they like," Molsberry said to The Guardian. Authorities are increasing enforcement and citations of violators.

[steelparade]

Late Tuesday at The Office 😎 🎶 🤙🏽 #vw #vwbus #theoffice #bolsachica #surfday #surfbus #sandybus #vwinstagram (at Bolsa Chica State Beach) https://www.instagram.com/p/CH_rEcVpuJo/?igshid=1hmi9ypf79tsj

[garcia1954]

Bolsa Chica State Beach ❤️