Last journaled here.
Ammophila aberti
Tag: santa monica mountains
shinrin-yoku
Polypogon monspeliensis
What is this fluffy-flowered grass on the water’s edge, we wondered. Turns out that rabbitsfoot or beardgrass is native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, but is now found in other parts of Africa, as well as in Australia and both North and South America. In California, it is widely distributed but typically confined to moist habitats. The flowers sure are attractive, but the grass can form dense stands and outcompete native plant species.
Crotalus oreganus
We failed to find newts, but we did come across a tiny rattlesnake coiled in the grass.
Dendromecon rigida
It’s been a while since I hiked Piuma Ridge Trail. Not a whole ton of wildflowers, but this one bush poppy shrub/tree was stunning.
wildlife crossing
The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing—the largest of its kind in the world—is currently under construction nearby. I climbed the hill out back and saw it in the distance, spanning the 10-lane 101 freeway. Decades in the planning and fundraising, this vital structure will protect biodiversity across the region by linking undeveloped land that‘s currently fractured by major roads. It’s hoped that it will help prevent the extinction of our threatened mountain lion population. The crossing is due to be completed some time next year.
Liometopum occidentale
Kim and I sat by the creek and watched the ants. What a lovely way to pass an hour.
Quercus wislizeni
A long time MCSP docent discovered a rare Interior Live Oak and brought us a twig to admire.
Phoradendron
Now that the sycamores have dropped their leaves, it’s easy to see the parasitic plants. I wondered how mistletoe seeds can get a hold on the underside of their hosts’ branches. Turns out the seeds are sticky!
map your walk
Lovely winter’s morning hike with many moments of delight. Lots of shades of buff, tan, and grey, but also some surprising new green popping up, despite the lack of rain so far.
hashiworks 