On May 30, Linda and Steve Henry, Preston Mutinda, and Carol and Gary Irwin went kayaking in Elkhorn Slough with Monterey Bay Kayaking. Our guide was experienced birder Rachel Perpignani. This was Preston’s first time in a kayak and he became an expert fast. Rachel added birds to Preston’s life list. We all were treated to the fascinating fishing behavior of a Black Skimmer. It was a magical day!

Preston wonders “what’s this?”

Suited up!

Steve and Preston are ready.

Carol and Linda too.

Feels good on land.

Linda passes land dry-run too

Off we go.

Gary sits behind photographer Carol.

Gulls take flight.

Loon and surf scoters

Loon.

Preston and guide Rachel Perpignani.

Sea otter spies Rachel and Preston

Sea otter cracking shell.

Great egret and great blue heron.

Great blue heron

Great egret

Looking good.

Preston takes to water.

Birding while kayaking.

Rachel and Preston

Steve and Linda Henry

Preston and rachel are a great team.

Gary lookin’ good.

Very young fluffy seat otter on mother’s belly.

Brown pelicans

Brown pelican

very young and adult harbor seals.

Black skimmer fishing.

Gorgeous beach

Gary, Steve and Preston

Carol and Preston

Gary and Preston

Preston

Steve and Preston

Linda and rock star Preston.

Preston with Linda and Steve at their Butano.