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.
Western Tanagers Pairing Up
Western Tanagers are tropical birds who winter in the tropics, but breed throughout the Western United States. Tanagers feed on insects in the spring and summer months, switching to berries in late summer/fall. Check out the photo of the pair calling GNG home! Western Tanager
Male Lazuli Bunting!
. Western Bluebird
Phainopeplas Seek Partners
Phainopeplas are the only North American representative from the Silky Flycatcher (Ptilogonatide) family. They prefer hot desert scrub with some tall trees mixed in. This describes the lower half of the garden to a “T”. Phainopepla mating pair
Skiddish Young Mule Deer
What could scare a Mule deer so much? An over boisterous scrub jay of course.
Hooded Orioles have Arrived
Our migrating population of Hooded Orioles (2 – 4 orioles call GNG home) is back in the garden and insects/flowers should beware! Hooded orioles feed on insects and pierce flowers to steal nectar. Stanford University has noticed an increasing number of Hooded Orioles in California […]
Striped Skunk Sniffing Around
Southern California has a healthy population of skunks in and around urban areas. We all know encounters with skunks can prove costly in terms of baths and tomato sauce, but skunks do play an important role in a healthy ecosystem. Skunks feed on rodents and […]
Cedar Waxwings Arrive
If you have never seen a Cedar Waxwing in person I urge you to make the arrangements to do so. Books fall short in conveying this bird’s natural beauty. Waxwings are almost always found in groups, eating and congregating around fruiting shrubs during the winter […]
Red-Tailed Hawk with Prey
One of the several resident Red-Tailed Hawks with a fresh catch.
Allen’s Hummingbird Bath Party
Allen’s love to bath and when they do they don’t mind company.
Townsend’s Warbler Makes GNG Home
Winter time is an excellent opportunity to spot Townsend’s Warblers in the garden. With its black stripped yellow cap and highly detailed wings, one can see why Townsend’s are many native gardener’s favorites. During the day they can be found high in the Silky Oak […]