I am a naturalist with the East Bay Regional Park District. I grew up in the East Bay, and its hills, valleys and shoreline feel like home to me. I am interested in all kinds of animals and plants and at one time or another have dived more deeply into quite a few groups. In 2024, I have been particularly inspired by butterflies and moths. Recently, in my spare time I generally head out with a macro lens and sneak up on various insects, reptiles, etc. In past seasons I have spent a fair amount of time sneaking up on birds as well. My favorite wildlife moments are those in which I constitute less of an intrusion, so the creatures around me go back to their regular routines and sometimes approach.