Open Space
California Scrub Jay vs. Steller’s Jay
Learn how to tell California scrub jays from Steller's jays by their appearance, habitat, calls, and behavior.
Ash-Throated Flycatchers in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Often heard before they are seen, ash-throated flycatchers are a summer visitor to the Santa Cruz Mountains' oak woodlands and grasslands.
Northern Harriers in the Silicon Valley
Northern Harriers are a familiar winter sight in Silicon Valley, flying low over wetlands and grasslands in search of prey.
What is That Turkey Vulture Doing?
Curious about turkey vultures overhead? This guide explains their kettling, feeding, and group behaviors seen across the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Wing-Spreading in Steller’s Jays
Wing-spreading is a type of social display by Steller's jays meant to ward off trespassers.
MeadowLarks Versus Horned Larks
The western meadowlark and horned lark look similar but belong to entirely different bird families and have distinct behaviors, songs, and appearances.
Interspecific Feeding: Why That Dark-eyed Junco is Raising a Cowbird
Dark-eyed juncos raising and feeding brown-headed cowbird juveniles are a common sight.
Blue Birds in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Here are the four bird species in the Santa Cruz Mountains that are predominately blue.
Western Fence Lizards
Western fence lizards are common in Silicon Valley, often seen basking in the sun. Their blue bellies and quick push-ups are signs of territorial display.
Plants That Don’t use Photosynthesis in the Bay Area
Some Bay Area plants survive without photosynthesis, relying on host roots or fungi for nutrients—including rare albino redwoods and striped coralroot.
