I am a writer and live with my spouse and dog on the edge of Florence Canyon in San Diego. Florence Canyon is an urban birding and wildlife wonder that defies all odds and explanations. It is a small, mostly privately owned (supposedly open space) canyon on an active migratory route with rare birds often making an appearance. The canyon is also home many mammals and to rare reptiles like the San Diego legless lizard. Currently, naked lady lilies are in bloom. Spring time is spectacular! Unfortunately, the canyon is under constant threat of development and uses that would damage the topography and endanger wildlife—tis the story of valuable land,