Wildflower Hour

With winter rains, the lagoon is lush with new growth + colorful blooms, and busy birds in breeding season.

What will you see, hear, smell and feel in one hour on your nature discovery? Feel like you need a Wildflower Hour? Whether you are new to plant identifications, or want to learn more about your favorite wildflowers, check out our Guide to the Plants of San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve: Plant Guide by Color

Rancher’s Fiddleneck (Amsinckia menziesii var. intermedia) at the Pole Trail

Deerweed (Acmispon glaber) at Harbaugh Seaside Trails

California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica), easternmost part of Rios Trail near Solana Hills Trail

Wart-stemmed Ceanothus (Ceanothus verrucosus), easternmost part of Rios Trail by Solana Hills Trail

An explorer walks the trails after recent rains.

Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatus)
While Towhees are commonly seen foraging in leaf litter, in spring, the males will climb into the shrub tops to sing their buzzy songs.

Nature needs us now, more than ever. Please make a gift today so that wildflowers, flowing waters, busy spring birds and everything green will stay protected now and forever! Thank you for your Wildflower Hour gift.

*Feature image is Parish’s Nightshade (Solanum parishii)