Azi Sharif 12/27/25 Azi Sharif 12/27/25

Little Jewels with Feathers: A Great Egret Family High Above San Dieguito Lagoon

High above the San Dieguito Lagoon in Del Mar, we spotted a Great Egret perched like a guardian of the canopy—while her playful “kids” practiced tiny wing-stretches and curious peeks through the pine needles, as if they were learning how to become little clouds with feathers.

Great Egret family at San Dieguito Lagoon in Del Mar, July 5, 2025 © Wildlife Jewels/ Azi Sharif

On July 5, we were at the San Dieguito wetlands in Del Mar as part of our EYES (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life) program, searching for injured or distressed wildlife following July 4th fireworks—a time when birds and other animals are often disoriented, separated from their families, or harmed by debris and noise.

As we quietly scanned the lagoon and surrounding habitat, watching closely for any wildlife in need, we looked up—and were met with an unexpected gift.

High above the lagoon, perched in the canopy of a tall pine, a Great Egret mom stood watch while her playful little ones practiced tiny wing-stretches and curious peeks through the needles—like little clouds with feathers learning how to fly. 🤍☁️🌲

In a place we had come prepared for emergencies, we instead witnessed something deeply hopeful:
a hidden wetland nursery, alive and thriving.

Moments like this remind us why habitat protection matters—and why healthy wetlands, safe nesting trees, and thoughtful human behavior are essential for wildlife families to survive, especially during high-impact holidays.

👉 Tap through to learn more about Snowy Egrets and our educational Egret Beach House initiative—shining a light on these beautiful birds and how we can help protect them.

📍San Dieguito Lagoon in Del Mar
📽 Wildlife Jewels® EYES™ Monitoring