BUMPER CROP OF ACORNS COMING

I took this Blip  yesterday, knowing today would be too miserable to be out & about.  Although the crows are braving the weather, the cold lashing wind & rain have kept Angus & I indoors 

This is the first time I have seen clusters of flowers on this tree, which I believe is a native COAST LIVE OAK.  The leaves look like Holly, but the
long slender ACORNS in the Autumn are a clue.  I did not see any bees
on these flowers, maybe, because they are wind pollinated.  All the recent rain is responsible for all these clusters of insignificant flowers, I am sure.

QUERCUS agrifolia, is a strong, hardy tree found in the dry coastal valleys of California & Mexico, growing from 30-80 ft. (10-24 meters); and can live 250 years.  In my area I notice they grow in groves in the arroyos, where water is more available; but, there are some huge sentinel trees, growing alone.

They provide habitat & food for many animals & birds, including 
scrub jays, turkey vultures & squirrels.  They can survive our high winds, drought & even are resistant to fire.

This once common tree is now protected because habitat loss has
made it a rare sight.  Our neighborhood planted many small trees, so
years from now, they will safely grow into majestic giants..