In the fall, birds really do "fly south for the winter." Luckily the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are far enough south that a large variety of migratory birds make their way here each year and stay for the winter.  After spending the spring and summer further north, they return to ride out the cold months in Southern California’s balmy Mediterranean climate.
 
According to The Cornell University Lab of Ornithology, "birds migrate to move from areas of low or decreasing resources to areas of high or increasing resources. The two primary resources being sought are food and nesting locations."

​After a rigorous review of the biological and geological significance of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks in 2006, the land was designated as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service.  A similar review in 2008 led to the land being designated as the first ever State Natural Landmark.  These designations honor and highlight the diversity and rarity of the plants and animals that call the landmarks home, as well as the unique geological makeup of the land.  However, these designations don’t provide formal protections for the land.  For that, we can thank a patchwork of conservation plans and easements put in place, piece by piece, over time to protect the land forever. 

Of all the native plants on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, Eriogonum fasciculatum is one of the most beguiling. Commonly known as California buckwheat, this shrub is native to the Southwestern U.S. and Mexico and is likely a familiar sight if you’ve spent time on the Landmarks or at the Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s Native Seed Farm. This type of buckwheat is recognizable for its densely-clustered white and pink flowers, which grow to an arresting rust-red as they dry and mature. Red clusters denote the perfect time to harvest buckwheat, which volunteers can do at the Native Seed Farm in the fall. The seeds grown at the farm are used to repopulate restoration areas with native plants.

California buckwheat isn’t just pretty: it’s edible! California buckwheat differs from Fagopyrum esculentum, the type of buckwheat most of us are familiar with: a pseudograin used for making porridge, noodles, and crepes. While California buckwheat is not a part of modern human diets, it is edible when prepared correctly and has been used by Native American tribes to make tea and bread. While humans today might find little use for the edible parts of buckwheat, insects can’t get enough of the stuff! It is a food source for some butterflies and is highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. More honey comes from pollinated buckwheat than any other native plant in California.

​As a food source, honey maker, native species, and eye-catching part of the coastal landscape, it’s easy to the see the beauty of California buckwheat. You can show this plant and its fellow natives some love by signing up for stewardship activities at the farm or on the land.

Great egrets are members of the heron family. With white plumage, sharp yellow bills and legs made for wading, they make their homes in warmer climates close to water. They are often found spearing fish in marshy areas, but are also powerful fliers, achieving speeds of up to 25 miles an hour in flight.

The great egret is considered a wildlife conservation success story. During the 19th century, large numbers of egrets were killed for the showy feathers they grow during mating season. The damage this caused to the great egret population has been reversed over time due to strong conservation efforts, including those mounted by the Audubon society, which was originally established to combat the practice of poaching birds for their feathers. Fittingly, the Audubon Society chose the great egret to be its symbol. Today, the great egret is no longer endangered, and can be found in many different parts of the world. We are lucky to have strong numbers of great egrets who call the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks home.
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You can celebrate the good health of the great egret population by joining birdwatching programs offered through the Irvine Ranch Conservancy, or by joining any program that takes you out on the land. Great egrets are just one of many bird species who share the land in Orange County’s backyard. 

​Take a break from the holiday rush and watch winter flora come to life on the Landmarks
 
Buck Gully Reserve provides one of the best views of the Pacific Ocean in Newport Beach and gives nature enthusiasts the chance to explore the beautiful California holly during these winter months. From dawn to dusk, you can check out this hidden oasis of lush wilderness and running water or sign up for a docent-led tour to give you a more in-depth look into the reserve.
 
The City of Newport Beach, in partnership with Irvine Ranch Conservancy, manages the Reserve through, among other means, targeted invasive plant species identification, removal and habitat restoration. The Buck Gully Reserve includes 300 acres of lush wilderness, home to numerous species of plants and animals. Miles of trails running through protected open space habitats bring residents close to nature while they walk, run, hike and bike.

​Get out and explore The Sinks during your next outdoor adventure
 
One of the seven wonders of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, “The Sinks” in the Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, is a hidden gem in Orange County. A geological formation consisting of layered sandstone cliffs, The Sinks are often referred to as Orange County’s Mini Grand Canyon and have become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
 
The red sandstone cliffs that form The Sinks are eroded in the Sespe Formation, a geological formation of southern California which is between 20-40 million years old. Visitors to The Sinks will experience the beautiful reddish-brown sandstone that drops off sharply into the canyon forming a natural bowl.