

In memory of Dr. John Rutledge
Two weeks ago, I received news that my Ph.D. advisor, Dr. John Rutledge, passed away. As I am writing this, it will be his memorial service tomorrow. I grieve with his family, and I also want to honor his impact on my life with this tribute. When other graduate students complained to me about their advisors, it is difficult for me to relate because that was not my experience. I was very blessed to have Dr. R as my advisor, and I felt very cared for. I was not the most motivated or productive graduate student and would probably have … Continue reading In memory of Dr. John Rutledge

California Thrasher
First observed at San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. This bird was loud! Continue reading California Thrasher

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
First observed at San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary Continue reading Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Black-headed Grosbeak
Observed a few times in my backyard. Continue reading Black-headed Grosbeak

Greater White-fronted Goose
Chinese name is 白額雁 and means a goose with a white forehead. A rare observation at the Irvine Marsh, seen with an Egyptian goose. Continue reading Greater White-fronted Goose

American Avocet
Chinese name is 美洲反嘴鷸 and literally means a reverse beak. Commonly seen at the Irvine marsh. Continue reading American Avocet

Zebra Dove
Chinese name is 斑姬地鳩. Observed at Oahu. They were everywhere! Continue reading Zebra Dove

Cooper’s hawk
Chinese name: 庫柏鷹. Observed at the Irvine Marsh in August 2021. Juvenile? Continue reading Cooper’s hawk

Calliope hummingbird
Chinese name is 星蜂鳥. First observed at Huntington Beach Central Park. Rare sighting back in April 2021. Continue reading Calliope hummingbird

Giving Back
One of the websites I stumbled upon last year is called DonorsChoose. On this website, teachers who have need of supplies and support can create a project to attract funding from donors. The recipient also provides pictures and updates on … Continue reading Giving Back