Redwood Sorrel
When I first saw large clover-like leaves emerging on one of our eastern slopes shortly after we moved here, I was fearful that we may have the moderately invasive Oxalis pes-caprae on the property. However, much to my surprise, and delight, this clover-like plant...
California Maidenhair
Our wet winter is favoring the growth of a different species of fern here at Curbstone Valley, the California Maidenhair Fern, Adiantum jordanii. This is the first time we’ve noticed this fern on the property, but until recently we’ve been in an...
Western Sword Fern
There is no better start to the day than the sense of calm and serenity one feels when walking through mature redwood groves, with large colonies of Western Sword Ferns (Polystichum munitum) growing at their feet, backlit by the early morning sun. The Western Sword...
Coast Range Newt
Yesterday’s rain brought out another salamander species here at Curbstone Valley, the Coast Range Newt (Taricha torosa torosa), also known as the California Newt. Each year, as the rains return, these newts can be seen scrabbling about the forest, and...
California Slender Salamander
I wasn’t intending on posting another fauna piece so soon, but a few nights ago I met someone new on the property. Well, new to me. It was just dark, and I went to lock our hens up for the night. I entered the chicken run where the hens were still milling...
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