
Looking for a little wildlife this fall? Hikers, bikers, and equestrians have the chance to spot diverse species by registering for programs on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, and on November 1 animal lovers can find 24 hours of fauna during Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s virtual “Wildlife Takeover.” Learn about the different species of wildlife on the open spaces by following Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks’ Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages where creatures of all species and sizes will be celebrated every hour!
“Fall and winter months are ideal for exploring the lands, and if you’re lucky you can spot wildlife in person during a program,” commented Dave Raetz, Irvine Ranch Conservancy Deputy Director. “From mule deer to migratory birds to arachnids, there’s an incredibly diverse community of native species on the Landmarks. We’re excited to launch our first-ever virtual Wildlife Takeover on social media where you’re guaranteed to see these amazing creatures.

The cooler fall and winter months are perfect for exploring the lands. Whether registering for a volunteer-led activity or exploring the open spaces during self-guided access programs, outdoor enthusiasts have a chance to spot wildlife in their natural environment throughout the year. Click the programs below to register for a free program and experience the great outdoors, or follow Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks on social media to join the virtual Wildlife Takeover!
- Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon on Saturday, November 4 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. welcomes hikers, bikers, and equestrians to discover the plant and wildlife in Black Star Canyon through self-guided access.
- Orchard Hills Evening Hike on Tuesday, November 7 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. invites hikers to explore the three-mile Orchard Hills loop trail and be rewarded with sweeping views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline.
- It’s Harvest Time! Collect Wildflower Seeds at the Native Seed Farm on Wednesday, November 8 from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. encourages visitors to help grow wildlife habitat and provide food for native animals on the Landmarks by harvesting seeds at the Native Seed Farm in Irvine.
- Thursday Morning Trek: Bommer Canyon on Thursday, November 9 from 8 – 11:30 a.m. invites visitors ages 12 and up can hike a seven-mile loop through Bommer Canyon in Irvine and spot a variety of different animals.
- Naturalist Notebook Series: Tracking on the Landmarks on Tuesday, November 14 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. invites the community to learn about the wildlife tracks found on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks from Irvine Ranch Conservancy docent, Don Millar.
- Thursday Morning Trek- Limestone Canyon and Dripping Springs on Thursday, November 16 from 8 – 11:30 a.m. will take nature lovers through Limestone Canyon to Dripping Springs. This seven-mile hike is great for participants ages 12 and up looking to explore East Loma and the Dripping Springs.
Irvine Ranch Conservancy works in partnership with OC Parks, City of Irvine, and the City of Newport Beach to offer a wide selection of activities where nature lovers can connect with the land. For more information about the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and to register for an activity visit LetsGoOutside.org.