April 3 and 4, 2012
Overcast and drizzly
This week, I took two sections of introductory biology majors up to the Preserve to make some wildlife observations. Our primary goal was to survey some trees for Sudden Oak Death, but I never go to the Preserve without the supplemental goal of making wildlife observations, especially since there are always at least a few students who tell me that this trip is the first time they’ve ever gone hiking in some sort of “natural” or wilderness area.
We saw a nice selection of herps, including a gorgeous Western Fence Lizard, and a very green Sierran Tree Frog. We also found a somewhat grumpy Southern Alligator Lizard (not that I blame it – I’d be grumpy too if I was yanked out of my hiding place).
My favorite sighting on both days, however, was the smallest Rough-skinned Newt that I’ve ever encountered. SO SMOL and SO ADORABLE! I found it on the 3rd, right near where there is a plank of wood that acts as a little bridge over a rivulet not far from the parking area. Amazingly, I was able to relocate it on the 4th, so that group of students were able to see it, as well. Oh my word.
Other interesting sightings included Golden Ear that appeared to be parastizing a growth of False Turkey Tail. I was also thrilled to see these gorgeous, huge Giant Wakerobin in bloom, along the lower path to the north of the parking area.
Species List
Rough-skinned Newt (Taricha granulosa), Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata), Sierran Tree Frog (Pseudacris sierra), Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis), Golden Ear (Naematelia aurantia), Hairy Curtain Crust (Stereum hirsutum), Giant Wakerobin (Trillium chloropetalum)
Let me know what you think!