Blog Archives

Red Rocks and History of Black Star Canyon

3/26/2015

Distinctive red rocks, active wildlife and a fascinating local history make Black Star Canyon a great place to learn about the land while enjoying a short hike.

The combination of a fascinating local history, noteworthy geological formations, and a variety of plant and animal life make the “History of the Red Rocks of Black Star Canyon” a hike not to be missed. During a casually-paced 2.5-mile walk along a fairly flat, sandy, streambed trail, well-informed docents will discuss the diverse flora and fauna on display, the plate tectonics at work underfoot, and the human history of OC Parks’ beautiful Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park.

Warmer Spring Temperatures Awaken Snakes

3/20/2015

Pacific Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer catenifer)

Snakes awaken from their seasonal “brumation” in spring, making this important predator much more active and visible this time of year.

There are more snakes being seen out on the trails, and these sightings coincide with the time of year that snakes come out of a kind of hibernation. Being aware of this springtime activity, as well as some basic snake safety tips, helps people and wildlife coexist on the land. The number one thing to remember? Leave the snakes alone, and they will return the favor.

Like bears and other mammals that go through a seasonal hibernation, when their bodies shut down for the winter, snakes and other cold-blooded reptiles go through a similar “brumation.” This process greatly slows their metabolism, making the snakes lethargic and largely inactive. Reptiles stop eating during brumation, and their heart and respiratory rates, as well as their digestion, slow significantly. In spring, warmer temperatures and other environmental signals cause snakes to emerge from the underground burrows where they have been brumating to once again feed and breed out on the land.

Handling Spring Trail Traffic

3/13/2015

Whether on foot, peddling on a bike, or mounted on horseback, following trail rules helps everyone enjoy the Landmarks.

Spring is a great time to hit the trails in the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. While you explore the canyons and ridges of these open spaces and nature preserves, please keep in mind that most trails within the Landmarks are multi-use trails – they are shared by hikers and bikers, and many are shared with equestrians as well. Knowing proper trail etiquette and courtesies is a good way to ensure trail safety and enjoyment for everyone.

Experience Upper Newport Bay by Kayak

3/6/2015

Guided kayak tours of Upper Newport Bay are a great way to experience one of the largest estuaries in Southern California.

Gliding through the waters of Upper Newport Bay provides an up-close and tactile way to experience the beauty and serenity of this natural estuary. Volunteer docents lead groups through the bay, discussing the ecological, geological and geographical history of this important estuary while you paddle along the shallow shores taking in the sights, sounds and smells of this preserved natural aquatic setting.

Red Rocks and History of Black Star Canyon

Warmer Spring Temperatures Awaken Snakes

Handling Spring Trail Traffic

Experience Upper Newport Bay by Kayak

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