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.
Gray Fox Marks its Territory with Scent
At least one Gray Fox has continued to hang around the GNG and apparently this one is a male. Female Red Foxes will lift their leg while marking with scent, but Gray Fox females squat. This fox can be seen lifting his leg to mark […]
Ceanothus Silk Moth
Occasionally, animals are found in the GNG after they have passed away. These findings are important clues to the rhythms of life in the garden, as well as presenting the possibility of adding new species not seen here before. This Ceanothus Silk Moth, wingspan at almost […]
First of the 2017 Season Hooded Oriole
March 10th was the date our first Hooded Oriole showed-up in the GNG this season – a beautiful male!
The 2017 Native Bee Season has Begun
For the most part, our native bees have been inactive for the winter but are now being seen in the GNG. Two weeks of warmth and a few 80° days have triggered them to life. On one day alone we found five bee species not observed […]
California Quail!
After a long absence, two adult male California Quail came strolling through the garden this past week. Coveys may have broken-up early this year and these two boys most likely had females close by. We can only hope quail chicks bless the GNG this spring!!
FOS Rufous Hummingbird
We had our first of the season (2017) Rufous Hummingbird today. This bird would have come up from Mexico and is travelling to his breeding grounds – maybe as far as Alaska!
Happy Saint Valentine’s Day!
About as close to hummingbird love as you will ever get…
Small Drip Bath
Water can be offered to wildlife in many ways. A small drip-bath on the ground is perfect for drinking and bathing, especially ground dwelling species. In the video below, many birds can be seen coming for a drink (and some for a quick bath) from […]
Rare Bird Alert!
A White-throated Sparrow was recently found in the GNG, an exceptional new species for our ever-growing bird list. During most winters, 10–15 of these birds will be documented in Los Angeles County – this was number 8 for the 2016/2017 season! This one (like most […]
My Bath! Number Two
An Allen’s Hummingbird quickly vacates the square fountain for an arriving thirsty Hermit Thrush. This video allows a good-long view of a bird that usually keeps itself well out of sight. Hermit Thrushes only winter here and will be around for a couple of more […]