As the Gottlieb Native Garden’s naturalist, Scott Logan documents the ever-changing array of wildlife species as they vary with the garden’s blooms, seasons and migratory patterns. While bringing these observations to life for all to experience, he also coordinates scientific research projects, and monitors the overall health and biodiversity of the garden. The Naturalist’s Journal also highlights the work the Gottliebs and Scott are doing to educate and inspire people to start gardening for wildlife with native plants.
Thirsty Raccoon
This raccoon just had to play with the bubbling water before it had its drink!
Jostling Hummers – in Slow Motion
Only two species of hummingbirds are present in the GNG during this time of year, but that doesn’t mean it’s quiet around the feeders. Anna’s and Allen’s Hummingbirds can be seen in the GNG year round, with the latter being the most aggressive. At the […]
Slender Salamander
When first encountered, this small thin salamander might look like a worm – until you notice that it has tiny limbs! We found this individual while exploring the GNG at night after a steady rain. Slender salamanders are active during periods of wet weather, and […]
Hermit Thrush
In many Southern California gardens during the winter months, one can find a migratory bird that is considered by some to have the most beautiful song of all North American birds, the Hermit Thrush. Secretive by nature, they are normally seen at the edge of […]
Warriors, Slaves and Assailants – it’s all going on in the GNG.
If you look closely in your garden, you may find drama on a small scale. Warriors & Slaves In this photo, Argentine Ants are herding their aphid slaves for food. The food source the ants are exploiting is the sweet honeydew substance aphids excrete after […]
Fewer Butterflies
This Gulf Fritillary was one of the few butterflies seen in the GNG today. As winter approaches butterflies are becoming scarce and only a few species will be seen from now until early spring. Gulf Fritillaries can be seen looking for nectar on most warm […]
Pine Siskins are Back
Pine Siskins arrived in mass a few weeks ago and seem to be sticking around the GNG. In California these birds are normally found in our higher local mountains and the High Sierra, moving down-slope in the late fall and winter in search of an […]
Early Morning Autumn Bath
The number of individual hummingbirds in the GNG has increased dramatically as of late. At any given time, there will be anywhere between 30-50 birds on the feeders. And as expected this time of year, Anna’s Hummingbirds and Allen’s Hummingbirds are the only species […]
“Down Under” Emigré
Sometimes a beautiful insect is not a welcome guest in a garden. This species of Eucalyptus Longhorned Borer was first documented in California in 1995 and is now well established throughout the state; along with non-native plants come non-native insects. Luckily, this very large beetle […]
Honey Bee or or Bee Mimic?
Mimicry is one of many interesting strategies for survival in the animal kingdom. This Syrphid Fly is a European Honey Bee mimic. Honey bees have the ability to sting, so this fly’s disguise will get it respect from many animals. But the question arises; why […]