Natural History Wanderings

From South Yuba River State Park Association

Docent-led Wild Flower Walks at the South Yuba River State

Docent-led Wild Flower Walks at the South Yuba River State Park begin March 17 and continue thru May 13. Every weekend the Park Docents provide these guided walks. They are out on the trail several days before their walk placing identification tags and finding the special flowers that are in bloom on that weekend.

Early in the season you will find Western Buttercup, Larkspur and Shooting Stars. By mid season the hills turn gold and purple with Poppies and Lupine. In mid to late season it is a special treat to find delicate Fairy Lanterns, Chinese Houses and Bird’s Eye Gilia. A real find is when you see the California Dutchman’s Pipe. You’ll learn about the unique symbiotic relationship it has with the Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly.

The Docent-led hikes start at 11:00 AM and last about 2 hours. No Dogs. The Buttermilk Bend Trail is an easy 2 mile round trip with spectacular views of the South Yuba River. Meet in the north parking lot, just past the concrete bridge which crosses the South Yuba River on Pleasant Valley road. Wear sturdy shoes; bring water, snacks and a camera. A $3.00 donation is requested. Rain may cancel the hike.

The visitor center has a great collection of wild flower books, bird books and many other education items. It is open 11-4:00 everyday in the spring and summer. For more information call the park at 530-432-2546 or go to www.southyubariverstatepark.org

Birding Walks by South Yuba River Park Association at Bridgeport

led by local expert Bill Cortright Dates: March 17 April 21 May 19 June 9, July 14 Sept 15 Oct 20
8:00 AM, 2 hours, bring; snacks, water, binoculars, a field guide, wear good shoes Meet at the North Parking Lot (across the new Pleasant Valley Rd. bridge)
Expect to See: Bald Eagle, Dipper, Woodpeckers, Bluebird & Phainopepla, Merganser, Kingfisher American Dipper, Warbler, Hermit Thrush, White Pelican, Oriole, Western Kingbird Yellow Breasted Chat, Flycatcher, Tanager, Cedar Waxwing, Nashville & Wilson’s Warbler.   Most of these birds may be seen on all walks
* 8:00 AM, 2 hours, bring; snacks, water, binoculars, a field guide, wear good shoes Meet at the North Parking Lot (across the new Pleasant Valley Rd. bridge)

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