Join MCBG Horticulturist Paul Ruiz-Lopez on a nature walk through the horticultural and natural areas of the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. The main focus of each walk will vary based on the season (see schedule below). Plants will be the main subject of observance and discussion, but we will also keep an eye out for animals such as birds, marine mammals, insects, amphibians, and more. The idea is to highlight the prominent “phenomenon” that is occurring in our garden and natural areas each month. Come explore the Gardens' natural history and learn to think like a naturalist!
Conifers of MCBG – February 15 and 22
Activity: Introduction to the diversity of native and non-native conifers on the property.
Terrain: Paved trails with the option for some meandering off-trail if desired
What to bring: Hand lens, journal, and pencil
Spring Coastal Wildflowers – April 12 and 26
Activity: Introduction to common annual and perennial wildflowers of the coastal bluffs/prairie
Terrain: Paved trails with some off-trail walking in the grass prairies
What to bring: Journal and pencil, hand lens (jewelers lens), field guides, and your smartphone with iNaturalist app
North Coast Seabirds – May 10 and 24
Activity: Observance and discussion of resident and local seabirds of MCBG and greater North Coast area
Terrain: Paved trails with some off-trail rocky/sandy scrambling at the bluffs
What to bring: Binoculars, windbreaker, journal and pencil
Local Bees – July 5 and 19
Activity: Observance, catch and release, and discussion of local bees (native and non-native) and their biology
Terrain: Paved trails with some off-trail walking in the grass prairies and garden beds
What to bring: Hand lens, journal, pencil, an insect net if available, and your smartphone with iNaturalist app
THE DETAILS
- Be prepared for the weather with appropriate layers and wear good walking shoes.
- We recommend bringing along a refillable water bottle, a notebook, a pen, and a camera if desired.
- If you are sick, please stay home.