Birds gather along a quiet stretch of the Contra Costa Canal under a moody December sky. Full Description: On December 10, 2024, nature and urban infrastructure come together in this tranquil scene from Concord, California. The photo captures the fenced banks of the Contra Costa Canal, where a group of birds rests and preens. The sky, painted in soft, cloudy hues, lends a serene backdrop to this harmonious blend of nature and human impact. Although surrounded by signs of construction and the nearby freeway, the canal remains a peaceful retreat for local wildlife, offering a moment of calm amid the hustle and bustle of daily life.