Every winter, many bird-watchers and nature lovers come to the Ramona grasslands for an educational weekend event called Hawk Watch (details).  It is a real delight to take a close look at beautiful birds of prey such as this Red-tailed Hawk (in the painting) and a Peregrine Falcon, or to spot a pair of Golden Eagles through binoculars.

According to the California Native Grasslands Association (link), 90% of the state's rare and endangered species inhabit grasslands ecosystems.  Yet, their habitats have been threatened due to a rapid decline in native grasslands.

Here in Ramona, about a 30-minute drive northeast of San Diego, we can still see the grasslands that have disappeared elsewhere in San Diego and much of Southern California.  But here, too, they are facing the same issue of urban development and other threats.  I'm glad to add that there are ongoing efforts with some successes to purchase the land in this area to create a preserve.


   detail


San Diego 100 (#69) - Ramona

A larger image of this painting is available on request.

Media: Original watercolor on paper
Image Size: 8.25 x 11.5 in. (on 9 x 12 in. paper)
Mat/Frame: No
Purchase: Please send me an email for availability.

Click here to view all San Diego 100 paintings.