Warm Weather Wildlife: A Shoutout to Summer Critters

While many think that summer isn’t a good time to see our local wildlife, that couldn’t be further from the truth! Orange County’s Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks come alive in the heat with a fascinating mix of cold-blooded reptiles. From various lizards to a diverse array of snakes, these warm-weather wildlife are soaking up the sunshine (and stealing the spotlight)! Here’s a closer look at the cool critters that you might encounter on your next visit:

Scaly Sun Seekers: Lizards 

In Southern California, we all know lizards are a common sighting during warmer seasons, darting across trails and sunbathing on warm rocks. One of the most common lizard species in this area is the Western Fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis). Although sighted often in yards or on fences (as the name implies), it is still a fun find out on the Landmarks with their bright blue undersides earning them the nickname “blue-bellies”! 

Granite Spiny lizards (Sceloporus orcutti) tend to be larger than other local lizards and can typically be identified by their size and unique coloring. Males are often noted for having vivid blue-green patches on their sides and throat, while the female lizard’s coloring is more subtle. These lizards are often found lounging on boulders or rock walls on rocky hillsides. They usually favor less developed areas such as OC Parks’ Black Star Canyon and Lizard Rock in OC Parks’ Fremont Canyon. 

Coast Horned lizards (Phrynosoma blainvillii) are found in low brush areas like Crystal Cove State Park, OC Parks’ Laguna Coast Wilderness and the Santa Ana Mountains. Spotting them is rare, as they are known for their camouflage. This species is considered of special concern in California. Irvine Ranch Conservancy (IRC), along with other local organizations, have conservation efforts in place in order to protect its habitats and food sources. If you are lucky enough to come across one while hiking in Orange County, remember to keep your distance and admire from afar!

Sunbathing Slitherers: Snakes 

When the sun heats up, it is prime time for spotting snakes as they sunbathe. Orange County is home to over 19 species of snakes, ranging from harmless to venomous. Southern Pacific rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) are the most common venomous snake in Orange County. Occasionally spotted near hiking trails, they are typically found in foothills, scrublands and rocky outcrops. They are easily recognized by the diamond-shaped patterns along their backs that help them camouflage into their surroundings and the distinctive rattle at the end of their tail, which they shake loudly when threatened. If you happen to encounter one, it’s important to keep a safe distance. 

Another common trail sighting is Gopher snakes (Testudo gopher)! These little lookalikes are often mistaken for rattlesnakes but are completely harmless! Gopher snakes like to put on a dramatic show when they feel threatened and will start hissing loudly and shaking their tails in leaves to imitate a rattle. If you hear rattling on the trail, don’t panic, take a few steps back, and observe from a safe distance. Sometimes it’s just a gopher snake faking it, but it’s always better to play it safe!

Another summer reptile out and about this season is the California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae). These striking snakes are deemed ‘king snakes’ for a reason and have earned their name by being a powerful predator. They are known for eating other snakes (even venomous rattlesnakes!) as they are immune to rattlesnake venom. Even though they can eat venomous snakes, they are non-venomous and typically skittish around humans. 

Don’t worry, most of these animals prefer to avoid humans! However, if you’re hiking or exploring, it’s smart to stay on trails, wear closed-toe shoes and keep an eye out! If you see one of these summer critters, remember to observe from a respectful distance.The most important thing is to keep both you and these fascinating reptiles safe!