The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

It was magical to take my kids to this place that I remember so vividly from my own childhood.  It is now better than ever, with many living and interactive exhibits.

You may click on any of the pictures to see them larger.

A Red-tailed Hawk:

An enclosed garden full of butterflies (some of them sharing a picnic):

A creek to play in:

My childhood favorite, a tiny hummingbird nest:

A Peregrine Falcon:

These birds were rescued and are being cared for by the Audubon Society.