As I was walking along that part of the San Tomas Creek trail near where I live, I saw a vision arise from the topmost part of the canopy of the Coast Live Oak.

I stared open mouthed as it flapped and spread its snowy white wings and rose, making a perfect picture against the beautiful backdrop of the blue sky.

Regret filled my heart briefly. The phone was in my pocket. There was no way I was going to be able to pull it out and take a picture. The best thing was to enjoy the sight while I could.

Even as I stood there with all this going through my mind, another bird rose from among the foliage, closely following the first. I should have taken out the phone, I thought ruefully.

The first bird, the bigger of the two, disappeared from sight, flying off as if on some urgent errand. The second one though alighted on the far bank of the creek—opposite to where I was standing rooted to the spot, walk forgotten—and started foraging in the water.

However far it was, now was my chance to click the Snowy Egret, and that’s exactly what I did!

©️ Shail Mohan 2026