from Anza- Borrego Desert Natural History Association
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Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 28, 2024
Wild Turkeys in the Desert
Posted in Animals, Desert | Tags: Wild Turkeys in the Desert
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 27, 2024
Regional Park Botanic Garden Photos November 26, 2024
Photos taken in the Regional Park Botanic Garden in Tilden Park in Berkeley, CA on November 26, 2024.
The Regional Parks Botanic Garden is a botanic garden of California native plants. The Garden is open Monday through Sunday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. It is located within Tilden Park in the hills above Berkeley, California. It is a 10-acre garden for many of the state’s rare and endangered plants and a place for visitors to wander among trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses from plant communities throughout the state. To learn more about the garden visit the website at www.nativeplants.org .
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 27, 2024
Green Friday at the East Bay Regional Parks
For the 10th consecutive year the East Bay Regional Parks is turning Black Friday Green with a Free Park Day to encourage the public to visit parks rather than shopping centers. All entrance and activity fees are waived, including parking, dogs, horses, boat launching, and fishing, as well as entrance to Ardenwood Historic Farm. The fee waiver does not include state fees for fishing licenses, watercraft inspections, or concessionaires, such as the Tilden Merry-Go-Round or Redwood Valley Railway steam train.
Posted in Park | Tags: East Bay Regional Parks
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 27, 2024
Monkeys got along better after hurricane
The BBC reports
Macaque monkeys got on better with others in their social groups after a devastating hurricane, according to researchers.
Researchers studied the impacts of a hurricane on a population of Rhesus macaques on an island off Puerto Rico.
Read more at Monkeys got along better after hurricane – study
Posted in Animals | Tags: Hrricane, Macaque monkeys
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 26, 2024
Highway 120 Closure
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR SIERRA-BOUND MOTORISTS: State Route 120 W from U.S. 395 to Yosemite’s east gate is now closed for the winter. The closure coincides with Yosemite National Park‘s seasonal closure of Tioga Road.
For up-to-date road conditions and closures, visit https://quickmap.dot.ca.gov or download the QuickMap app. #quickmap#sr120#winterclosure
Posted in Drives | Tags: Highway 120 Closure
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 26, 2024
These Apes Dance Like Someone Is Watching
The New York Times reports
Gibbons move with rhythm and intention. Dare we say style?
It’s not twerking. It’s not salsa or breaking. You might put it somewhere between vogueing and the robot. Whatever you want to call it, the distinctive performance style of a female gibbon is a dance, researchers say.
Read more and see video at These Apes Dance Like Someone Is Watching
Posted in Animals, Uncategorized | Tags: Apes Dancing, Gibbons Dancing
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 25, 2024
Native California species washes up dead in downtown Oakland
SF Gate reported
Last week, an unexpected discovery washed up on the shoreline of Oakland’s Lake Merritt: several dead Chinook salmon. They had likely swum hundreds of miles in the Pacific Ocean before making their way inland, past the Golden Gate Bridge and into the tidal lagoon, where they attempted to spawn and lay eggs.
Read more at Native California species washes up dead in downtown Oakland
Posted in Animals | Tags: Chinook salmon, Lake Merritt
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 25, 2024
A surprising culprit for plummeting nighttime pollination
Anthropocene Magazine reported
A big part of the problem, it turns out, is that nighttime air pollution (more so than daytime pollution) blinds pollinators to the smell of flowers.
Posted in Animals, Environment | Tags: Nighttime Pollination
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 25, 2024
Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2024: Highly Commended
The Atlantic reports
The organizers of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year contest have once more shared a preview of some of the Highly Commended images in this year’s competition. The full list of winners, and the Grand Title and Young Grand Title Awards, will be announced in October. Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum in London.
See photos and read more at Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2024: Highly Commended – The Atlantic
Posted in Uncategorized
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 24, 2024
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is hiring!
Our Resource and Visitor Protection division is seeking to hire two qualified individuals to join their team. Applicants will be expected to support park rangers with resource and visitor protection duties, including emergency medical services, search and rescue, and backcountry patrols. These are temporary term positions, expected to last one year.
To apply, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/819689700?_gl=1*1lbg50n*_ga*MTQ4MTc0Mjc2OC4xNzA4NDcxNDA3*_ga_5222X8D281*MTczMTk0Mjk1Ny41LjEuMTczMTk3MjMzNC4wLjAuMA..
Posted in Job Openings | Tags: Job Openings
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 24, 2024
Bobcats are back, and they’re helping protect people from zoonotic disease
MongaBay reported
- In the last 125 years, bobcats have recovered significantly from extremely low numbers, with several million individuals found throughout North America today.
- Living at the interface of urban and rural environments, bobcats face many human-caused dangers, including loss of habitat to roam, automobiles, and rodent poisons.
- Bobcats help reduce the spread of diseases from animals to humans partly because they and other large mammals are poor disease vectors. Bobcats also prey on the small rodents that easily transmit pathogens.
Read more at Bobcats are back, and they’re helping protect people from zoonotic disease
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 23, 2024
As Annual Western Monarch Butterfly Count Gets Underway, New Analysis Highlights Importance of California State Parks for Species
The Santa Barbara Independent reports
California State Parks Foundation released a new analysis of data that confirms the importance of California state parks for the survival of the western monarch butterfly. A review of 26 years of data collected on the western monarch butterfly population shows that a significant number of those counted are found in California state parks.
“California State Parks is the single largest land manager of overwintering groves for western monarch butterflies,” said Rachel Norton, Executive Director of California State Parks Foundation. “Monarch butterflies depend on these groves for their survival. Our state parks have a key role to play in the preservation of this iconic California species.”
Posted in Butterflies, Uncategorized | Tags: California State Parks, Monarcy Butterfly Count
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 23, 2024
Salmon Have Returned Above the Klamath River Dams. Now What?
The Revelator reported
As the fish swim back to places they haven’t reached for more than a century, scientists will watch for signs of the watershed’s recovery.
The removal of four hydroelectric dams on the Klamath River in southern Oregon and Northern California has been recognized as the largest dam removal in U.S. history. More notably, it’s also the largest salmon-restoration project to date.
Read more Salmon Have Returned Above the Klamath River Dams. Now What? • The Revelator
Posted in Animals | Tags: Dam removal, Salmon
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 23, 2024
An almost 10,000 year old Norway spruce
from Wikipedia
Old Tjikkoi s an approximately 9,566 years-old Norway spruce, located in the Dalarna province in Sweden. Old Tjikko originally gained fame as the “world’s oldest tree”. Old Tjikko is, however, a clonal tree that has regenerated new trunks, branches and roots over millennia rather than an individual tree of great age. Old Tjikko is recognized as the oldest living Picea abies and the fourth-oldest known clonal tree.
The age of the tree was determined by carbon dating of genetically matched plant material collected from under the tree, as dendrochronology does not work for clonal trees. The trunk itself is estimated to be only a few centuries old, but the plant has survived for much longer due to a process known as layering (when a branch comes in contact with the ground, it sprouts a new root), or vegetative cloning (when the trunk dies but the root system is still alive, it may sprout a new trunk).
Read more Old Tjikko – Wikipedia
Posted in Environment | Tags: Old Tjikkoi
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 23, 2024
Atmospheric rivers aren’t new. Why does it feel like we’re hearing about them more?
NPR reports
California is in the midst of a strong atmospheric river that’s caused flooding, evacuations, road closures, and mention of it is all over the news and social media. And this comes on the heel of twoprevious winters where the Golden State saw damaging storms of the same kind. If you have the feeling that in the past few years, you’ve started hearing the term a lot more, you are not alone. You’re not even wrong.
In recent years, “atmospheric river” has become used much more frequently in scientific papers and in media coverage
Read more Atmospheric rivers aren’t new. Why does it feel like we’re hearing about them more? : NPR
Posted in Environment | Tags: atmospheric rivers
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 22, 2024
The Future of Whales and Seabirds Webinar
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 22, 2024
This bird came back from extinction – now scientists in an aircraft are teaching it to migrate
The Guardian reports
Extinct in central Europe for 300 years, 36 northern bald ibis are following an ultralight aircraft on their long-forgotten migration route from Austria to Spain
Posted in Birds
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 21, 2024
Understanding Dormancy
from the National Wildlife Federation
As the seasons change, you may notice your native plants starting to look a little less vibrant. Don’t worry, they’re not dead! They’re just taking a well-deserved nap.
Understanding Dormancy:
- A Natural Process: Dormancy is a survival strategy that helps plants conserve energy during harsh conditions.
- Signs of Dormancy: Brown, dry foliage, and slowed growth with a firm stem base.
- Caring for Dormant Plants: Water deeply before the ground freezes and apply a layer of mulch to protect roots.
Remember: Patience is key! Your plants will re-emerge once the weather warms up.
To learn more about dormancy in native perennials, visit our learning center.
Posted in Garden | Tags: Plant Dormancy
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 21, 2024
Volunteering as a camp host in Sequoia National Park
We are currently looking for a volunteer to serve as a camp host for the Wolverton Service Camp. The camp is utilized only by SEKI volunteer service groups and park researchers. It is located off Wolverton Road, just a few minutes from the largest tree in the world, the General Sherman Tree.
The camp host provides orientation information to the volunteers staying at the camp and helps with general upkeep. They are provided with a canvas tent and platform, or the host can bring their own camper van or under 22-foot RV, though there are no RV hookups. The season runs from mid-May to mid-October. Applicants who can only volunteer for a partial season may also be considered.
For more information or to submit your application, please visit Volunteer.Gov and search for Campground Host—SEKI Service Camp.
Posted in Job Openings, Park | Tags: Campground Host, Sequoia National Park
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 21, 2024
Golden Gate Recreation Area Upcoming Events
To see the current schedule of upcoming events at Golden Gate Recreation Area go to
Posted in Talks, Walks & Hikes | Tags: Golden Gate Recreation Area Events
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 21, 2024
Dengue fever: Research points to climate change’s role in high cases
NBC reported
- Nearly 12 million cases of dengue fever have been recorded in the Americas this year, close to triple last year’s total.
- New research suggests that climate change is responsible for nearly a fifth of the world’s dengue burden.
- That share is likely to rise significantly in the future, according to the findings.
Read more at With dengue cases at an extreme high, research points to climate change’s role
Posted in Environment | Tags: Dengue
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 20, 2024
New eagle pair, nest to be featured on popular Minnesota DNR EagleCam
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources News Release
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources EagleCam, with viewers in all 50 states and more than 150 countries, will feature a new location and pair of bald eagles when it goes live Thursday. The original EagleCam will also remain on during the coming season.
The new camera will focus on the nesting behavior of a breeding pair of bald eagles that have successfully and consistently nested in the area for at least four years, rearing several broods of eaglets. The original camera will continue to show the territory that includes the previous eagle pair whose nest fell April 2, 2023.
Both cameras can be viewed starting Thursday on the DNR website and on the DNR YouTube channel opens in a new browser tab. The webpage also includes a new video highlighting the installation of the new camera, the work of the DNR Nongame Wildlife Program and how anyone can donate to support the program. Since 2013, the Nongame Wildlife Program has provided the DNR EagleCam as another way to connect people with wildlife.
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 20, 2024
Upcoming Events at the Regional Parks Botanic Garden
All events are free and open to the public. To get to the garden go to Directions
Sunday, December 1, 10:00 a.m., Glenn Keator: “Botanizing California.”
Below is the current schedule of Wayne Roderick Lectures. All start at 10:30 a.m.
- November 23: Eric Folmer – Climbing Trees for Research
- November 30: No Lecture Due to Thanksgiving Holiday
- December 7th: Glenn Keator – Redwoods and Their Relatives
- December 14: Ben Anderson – Bulbs from Dry Summer Climates
- December 28: No Lecture Due to Christmas Holiday
- January 4: No Lecture Due to New Years Holiday
- January 18: Liz Bittner – Six Months of Wanderings, in California and Beyond
- February 15: Greti Sequin – The Chemistry of Weeds and Why They are So Successful
- February 22: Dee Himes – Calochortus Treasure Hunt in California
To get to the garden go to Directions
Posted in Garden, Talks | Tags: Roderick Lectures
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 20, 2024
Monarch butterfly may be listed soon as threatened or endangered
NPR reports
The monarch butterfly is widely recognized and widely dispersed across North America and it’s in trouble. Federal officials decide soon whether it gets protection under the Endangered Species Act.
In early December, federal wildlife officials will decide whether the monarch butterfly, which pollinates plants and flutters through backyards in nearly every U.S. state, is deserving of federal protections.
The decision comes after a decade of efforts by wildlife groups, ecologists as well as non-scientists, who have documented declining monarch populations. And a diverse network of monarch enthusiasts, conservation efforts and landowners are anxious to see whether or how the federal government plans to protect the widespread monarch.
Read more at Monarch butterfly may be listed soon as threatened or endangered : NPR
Posted in Butterflies | Tags: Endangered species, Monarch Buttefly
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 19, 2024
Become a Docent at Jepson Prairie
The Jepson Prairie Docent program is holding a training class for new docents in February 2025. If you are interested, please fill out the application at https://forms.gle/XSykYHComusf4H9p7
Jepson Prairie is one of the premier vernal pool and native bunchgrass prairie habitats in California. Located 10 miles south of Dixon, CA, visitors from all over the world come to see the colorful wildflower displays every spring. Jepson Prairie docents lead public tours every Saturday and Sunday from mid-March through mid-May.
This picture is from the south end of the large playa pool at Jepson Prairie, from May 2019.
Posted in Class/Workshop | Tags: Jepson Prairie Docent Training
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 19, 2024
Job Opening EMT at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Seasonal Health Technician (EMT) Opportunity in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks!
Step into a rewarding role as a Health Technician (EMT) amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks! We are actively recruiting for temporary, GS-5 EMT positions in the Lodgepole, Grant Grove, and Cedar Grove Subdistricts. This unique opportunity allows you to provide critical care while working in one of America’s oldest national parks that features iconic Giant Sequoias and a stunning array of ecosystems.
As an EMT, you will respond to approximately 350 emergency calls annually, conduct patient assessments, manage transport decisions, and operate under NPS protocols with support from a dedicated team of rangers holding certifications from EMT to Paramedic. Play a key role in emergency response, including Search and Rescue operations, all while ensuring the safety of visitors in this spectacular wilderness.
These temporary positions offer a pay range of $19.02 – $24.72 per hour, with the anticipated employment period from late April to mid-October.
Learn more about the position description, requirements, and apply online at USAJOBS, https://www.usajobs.gov/job/816380400. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference while surrounded by nature’s beauty!
Posted in Job Openings | Tags: Job Opening
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 19, 2024
Job Openings at Pt. Reyes
Interested in working with plants at Point Reyes National Seashore? The park’s Natural Resources team has just posted several summer seasonal Biological Science Technician positions on USA Jobs!
Members of this crew will help survey and remove invasive plant species, monitor threatened and endangered plant species, map plant populations, and more! Point Reyes has some of the most accessible wilderness in the Bay Area, and these positions will work in some of our most stunning sites – from rugged coastal scrub to foggy forests, rolling dunes to tidal wetlands, on and off trail.
Visit www.usajobs.gov and search Point Reyes to see these and other job announcements!
Posted in Job Openings | Tags: Job Openings
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 19, 2024
Bay Nature Events
See Bay Nature’s calendar of upcoming events at Bay Nature Events.
Posted in Park, Talks, Walks & Hikes | Tags: Bay Nature Events
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 19, 2024
Software can decode bird songs
The BBC reported
Scientists have developed a highly advanced bird song decoder, which can automatically identify the call of a vast variety of birds.
The software brings the “cracking of the dawn chorus” one step closer.
It used recordings of individual birds and of dawn choruses to identify the characteristics of each tweet.
Read more Software can decode bird songs – BBC News
Posted by: Sandy Steinman | November 19, 2024
Why Mister Grouse Is the Friendliest Bird in the Forest
The New York Times reports
Ruffed grouse are elusive and stealthy, but scientists are seeking a genetic explanation for why some of the birds become best buddies with people.
Read story at Why Mister Grouse Is the Friendliest Bird in the Forest
Posted in Birds | Tags: Bird Behavior, Ruffed grouse
Natural History Wanderings 