Irvine Ranch Conservancy invites the community to discover native wildlife on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks by registering for a public program on the open spaces. Nature lovers can also catch a glimpse of fauna on the lands through a virtual “Wildlife Takeover” on Wednesday, November 1 beginning at 6 a.m.
The first annual virtual Wildlife Takeover will include 24 hours of wildlife and feature a photo or video of a different animal posted every hour to the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks’ Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. Virtual takeover participants can look forward to posts that will include a picture or video of a native animal, information on the species, and links to programs on the Landmarks where visitors have a chance to see wildlife firsthand in their natural habitat.
“Fall and winter months are ideal for exploring the lands, and if you’re lucky you can spot wildlife in person during a program,” commented Dave Raetz, Irvine Ranch Conservancy Deputy Director. “From mule deer to migratory birds to arachnids, there’s an incredibly diverse community of native species on the Landmarks. We’re excited to launch our first-ever virtual Wildlife Takeover on social media where you’re guaranteed to see these amazing creatures.”
Join the virtual takeover by “liking” the Landmarks’ Facebook page (Facebook.com/irlandmarks) following them on Twitter (@IRLandmarks) and on Instagram (@OCMountainstoSea), and find birds like the California Gnatcatcher, arachnids like tarantulas, and mammals like coyotes and bobcats to enjoy a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Irvine Ranch Conservancy works in partnership with OC Parks, City of Irvine, and the City of Newport Beach to offer a wide selection of activities where nature lovers can connect with the land and catch a glimpse of wildlife that calls the Landmarks home. Whether visitors choose to register for a volunteer-led activity or explore the open spaces during self-guided access programs, outdoor enthusiasts have a chance to spot wildlife in their natural environment throughout the year. Click the programs below to register for a free program and experience the great outdoors.
- Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon on Saturday, November 4 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. welcomes hikers, bikers, and equestrians ages 12 and up to discover the plant and wildlife in Black Star Canyon through self-guided access.
- Orchard Hills Evening Hike on Tuesday, November 7 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. invites hikers to explore the three-mile Orchard Hills loop trail and be rewarded with sweeping views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline
- It’s Harvest Time! Collect Wildflower Seeds at the Native Seed Farm on Wednesday, November 8 from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. encourages visitors to help grow wildlife habitat and provide food for native animals on the Landmarks by harvesting seeds at the Native Seed Farm in Irvine.
- Thursday Morning Trek: Bommer Canyon on Thursday, November 9 from 8 – 11:30 a.m. invites visitors ages 12 and up can hike a seven-mile loop through Bommer Canyon in Irvine and spot a variety of different animals.
- Naturalist Notebook Series: Tracking on the Landmarks on Tuesday, November 14 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. invites the community to learn about the wildlife tracks found on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks from Irvine Ranch Conservancy docent, Don Millar.
- Thursday Morning Trek- Limestone Canyon and Dripping Springs on Thursday, November 16 from 8 – 11:30 a.m. will take nature lovers through Limestone Canyon to Dripping Springs. This seven-mile hike is great for participants ages 12 and up looking to explore East Loma and the Dripping Springs.
Irvine Ranch Conservancy offers a full calendar of free programs all year long, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, habitat restoration, and other special events for nature and wildlife lovers of all ages and skill levels. For more information about the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and to register for an activity visit http://LetsGoOutside.org.
Credit: Irvine Ranch Conservancy.
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