Environment Wildlife 

Monarch Butterflies to Receive Protected Status

News from the Associated Press on Tuesday: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plans to add the monarch butterfly to the threatened species list by the end of 2025. “The iconic monarch butterfly is cherished across North America, captivating children and adults throughout its fascinating life cycle,” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams said in a news release.… Read More
Local News Wildlife 

Albert the White Peacock of Boulder Creek

By Julie Horner On November 23, 2024 Boulder Creek’s wonderful wild white peacock was predated by a mountain lion. Neighbors reported that Albert was taken by a puma in the area of the Redwood Resort campgrounds at the south end of Boulder Creek. Albert lived free in this quiet residential neighborhood in the Santa Cruz Mountains, choosing secluded backyards to… Read More
Infrastructure Local News Wildlife 

Fall Creek Pedestrian Bridge Temporary Closure

The Fall Creek Pedestrian Bridge between Fall Creek Drive and Farmer Street at the lower walk-in entrance to the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park near San Lorenzo Valley High School will be closed from Monday, December 11 until Friday, December 22, 2023. Crews will be carrying out essential maintenance on the footbridge as part of the… Read More
Newt Season Local News Wildlife 

Newt Season

By Ryan Okrant Newts, newts, they’re adorably cute, be aware of their migration route! The San Lorenzo Valley is home to multiple populations of newts. As residents on their turf, we need to lend them a helping hand. The California newt is not on any endangered species lists as of yet, though there are theories that are beginning to predict… Read More
mallard motherhood Column: Gale McCreary Columns Wildlife 

The Miracles of Mallard Motherhood

By Gale McCreary As raucous blue jays argue over nesting sites and crows convene in swarthy flocks, a lone duck can be seen drifting along the river’s edge quacking. She is announcing her availability, not that common for a Mallard hen. These drab-coated females usually are claimed by handsome green-headed drakes early in the season and remain paired with them… Read More