March Nature News
Shooting
Star Wildflower
On
the Trails
Spring-fed
waterfalls, lush green meadows and mountain wildflowers are found this
time of year on Mt. Tamalpais. Our
wildlife are preening, strutting and engaging in mating dances - love
is in the air.
Whale Migration
During the first two weeks of March you'll
find as many as 200 gray whales and calves a day migrating north towards the feeding
grounds of the Bering Sea. For a good viewing spot, head west on Muir Woods road
until in dead-ends on Hwy. 1, turn right and keep an eye out for the Muir Beach
Overlook on your left at the hill's crest.
Crane Nestings
In springtime these graceful long-necked birds can be spotted feeding
in our Marin wetlands. Down the road from us at
Audubon Canyon Ranch, you can observe the Great Blue Herons and Egrets
building over 100 nests in the redwood treetops. The ranch is open during
nesting season, mid-March through mid-July.
Aerial
Displays
Did you notice our logo features a red hawk? We are partial to
them; they nest in our trees and can be spotted soaring above our decks.
Red hawk
mating and nest building begins in March and continues through May.
This is accompanied by spectacular aerial displays by both males and
females. Circling and soaring to great heights, they fold their wings
and plummet to treetop level, repeating this display as much as five
or six times.
"We
believe our national parks are at the heart of what makes the Bay
Area a wonderful place to live and visit. The enrich our lives, restore
our spirits, and connect us to the natural world. They are both grand
and fragile, diverse and unique, expansive but not limitless."
Brian O'Neill (1942-2009), Park Superintendent, Golden
Gate National Recreation Area.
Return
to About Us.
coming soon