It’s a harsh landscape

 

 

 

 

 

 

With a large salt lake in the middle.

 

The lake has no outlet and sits on top of a giant salt dome.  It’s up to 10 times as salty as the ocean, depending on how much water is in it.

 

It is surprising how many land animals and birds survive in this unforgiving salty environment.  In addition though, there is a tiny freshwater oasis right above it.

 

I think it’s a natural seep, with a little help from human hands to make it perennial.

 

Sal del Rey National Wildlife Refuge.