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Join us for wildlife stories, field notes, and plenty of coastal surprises - from sea lions at the marina to hidden tide pools and a shop full of nature-inspired art.
I started Salt + Noelle to share the wild, everyday moments I find along California’s coast - and sometimes beyond. Raised far from the ocean, I built a life around music and tech, but always kept a camera close and the coast in mind.
Now based at Channel Islands Harbor, I document the places where people and wildlife meet. This blog is where I share honest field notes, photo essays, and the stories behind the images. If you’ve ever loved the ocean from afar or wondered what it’s really like to witness wildlife up close, you’re in the right place.
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Brandt’s Cormorants Nesting at Moss Landing
A sunrise visit to Moss Landing reveals the drama of Brandt’s cormorant nesting season - flashes of blue throat patches, nest building, and plenty of neighborly squabbles. This photo essay offers a close look at breeding behaviors and tips for ethical birdwatching.
Squirrels! Burrowed In, Fluffed Out, and Watching You Snack
This week’s Wildlife Wednesday spotlights California ground squirrels - flattened on sand, darting between rocks, and always eyeing your snacks. Discover their curious routines, the risks of feeding wildlife, and a surprise fox squirrel cameo in the gallery.
Harbor Seal Highlights
A spring visit to Elkhorn Slough reveals a shoreline full of harbor seals - sleepy adults, playful pups, and peaceful scenes during pupping season. This photo essay shares the quiet magic of watching a natural seal nursery unfold along the Central California coast.
A Crab Claw and No Intention of Sharing
This week’s Wildlife Wednesday features a hungry sea otter in Elkhorn Slough, caught mid-snack with a crab claw and zero interest in sharing. A candid look at otter feeding habits - sometimes silly, sometimes serious, always entertaining.
Pup Watch: A Photo Tour on Elkhorn Slough Safari
Experience sunrise on Elkhorn Slough with a photo tour packed with sea otter pups, harbor seals, and nesting birds. This essay captures the excitement of early wildlife sightings, behind-the-scenes moments, and the joy of documenting California’s coastal life.
Morro Bay Adventure: Sea Otters, Elephant Seals & Monarch Butterflies Along California’s Coast
A coastal adventure from Morro Bay to Pismo Beach brings close encounters with sea otters, elephant seals, and monarch butterflies. This photo essay highlights the best spots for wildlife viewing and the magic of California’s central coast.