A Bird's Eye View by Mike Stiles
People often ask me what my favorite bird is, and it always stumps me. I've always felt awkward not being able to answer that question (after nearly four decades of birding), so I thought I would sit down this month and try to figure it out in front of you.
Of course, there are obvious contenders. Read More
A Sense of Place: Your California State Parks
When I first became the Executive Director for (big breath) "Central Coast Natural History Association," (drag in another breath) it took me about six months before I could say that in one breath. Many times, before I get to the end of it, I see peoples' eyes glaze over, and I know I'm in trouble. Even if I get past our name, I often have to explain what that means, and let's just say, "It's complicated." Read More
Elfin Forest Activities by Jean Wheeler
Third Saturday Walk, 9:30 a.m. - Butterflies: Join butterfly enthusiast Pat Brown on a tour of the Elfin Forest from a butterfly’s point of view. Pat has taken many photos of butterflies in all stages of development from eggs to mature butterflies, and will share them along with fascinating butterfly facts. Read More
Exploring the Coast by Ruth Ann Angus
To say that Snowy Plovers have a serious problem when it comes to nesting is an understatement. What sensible bird would pick the flat open beach to carve a little depression in the sand and lay an egg in it? How safe could that be? Not very. But this is just what the Western Snowy Plover does every year. Read More
Eye on the Estuary by the Morro Bay National Estuary Program
Nearly 90% of California’s wetlands have been lost since 1850, largely due to coastal development. According to the EPA, more than half the nation’s population lives within 100 miles of our coasts. Yet, Morro Bay has remained as one of the last relatively undisturbed wetlands in central and southern California. This area supports a network of wetland habitats, eelgrass beds and freshwater streams, providing refuge for an assortment of plant and animal species ranging from microscopic plankton to the southern sea otter, many of which are endangered species who still survive here.
The unique qualities of this special place are evident to those who make their homes here, as well as those who must travel to enjoy the serenity it affords. It is tempting to read this information, look out over the bay and assume that the region is healthy. But is it? Learn More
Marine Sanctuaries by Carol Georgi
Even though there isn't a national sanctuary protecting most of San Luis Obispo County's coastal waters, Morro Bay fisheries are doing a great job of working with the sustainable fisheries program set up by the Nature Conservancy. The Conservancy, California Fisheries Fund, and FishWise are helping to support Central Coast fisheries and fishing communities by reaching out to consumers who care about fresh fish, want local sustainable seafood and have a desire grow their businesses. Go to California Fisheries Fund to learn more about some of the innovative fishermen and fishing businesses in Morro Bay. Read More
Observations of a Country Squire by George Zidbeck
Nearly two decades ago, the early spring gathering of wild turkeys in my neighborhood turned commonplace and seldom commanded more than a momentary glance unless they exhibited signs of alarm. Such a happenstance occurred early one morning while I raked the SW portion of my parcel. I first heard the rustling of a flock of a dozen turkeys running down-slope, above my rear fence line, in a heavily wooded section. I looked up behind the fowl to see what created their hurried descent. Read More
Ocean Creatures
Growing up to 10 feet long (3 m), the Sevengill shark has a wide head with a blunt nose and only one dorsal (top) fin (most sharks have two), and seven pairs of gill slits (most sharks have five). Its back and sides are reddish brown to silvery gray, or olive-brown and speckled with many small black spots, and its underbelly is cream colored. Read More
State Parks Events
Beginning in March 2010, some camp sites will be closed based on camping demands. Campsites on reservation availability will be reduced roughly in half. (Campsites #87 through #117 will be closed which includes five accessible campsites and two restrooms. Campsites #118 through #139 will be closed which includes 2 accessible campsites and one restroom.) See What Else Is Happening
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