Wetlands Wishlist

     I am fortunate to live near some of the last remaining wetlands in Southern California.  I often walk near the wetlands and have taken some of the monthly hikes offered in the wetlands.  

     The wetlands provide food and shelter for many creatures.  Over time, I have made a mental checklist of the wetlands creatures I have observed and a wish list of those I hope to see. 

     Some creatures are more elusive or scarce and so are harder to glimpse.  The guided wetlands hikes have provided me with the opportunity to see some of these harder to see wetlands residents.  I was very excited when we saw the group of sea turtles that live in the channel near the power plant.  The sea eagle (osprey) flying by with a large fish in its talons was another favorite.  The bunnies were cute and popular with the children along on the hikes.  Once, we saw a coyote.

     Many of the wetlands birds are easy to spot: the bright blue and white kingfisher, the prehistoric-looking blue heron, the white egrets and the cute black and white buffle headed ducks.  The wetlands are also home to hummingbirds, an endangered sparrow, red winged blackbirds and meadow larks.   

     Topping my wish list is the burrowing owl.  I’ve seen photos of this owl but never the actual owl.  I’ve seen its home in an old pipe near an oil well.  I’m hoping to see it up close and personal. 

     Take advantage of a free walk in the Market Place Marsh on Saturday, September 1^st from 8 to 10 a.m.  The hike is guided by ecologists and is appropriate for all ages.  You’ll learn about and see some of the many creatures that rely on this habitat for their survival. 

     The walk begins on the inland side of the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and 1^st Street, just at the border of Long Beach and Seal Beach.  There is ample parking.  For more information or to RSVP for the September 1^st  walk, contact Elizabeth at 714-357-8576 or ejlambe@verizon.net.  Learn more about the wetlands at www.lcwlandtrust.org.