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A pair of colorful snakes were discovered underneath a pile of plant debris on last month's volunteer day in Garber Park | Photo by Ruby J. Soto Cardona.
Slithering surprises
As we welcome the hotter summer months, we also welcome our resident snakes. Two colorful snakes were discovered underneath a pile of plant debris that was about to be bagged and removed from the park. This was an exciting, if at first alarming, find for our volunteers who then relocated the snakes to a safer place. The snakes are most likely Coast Gartersnakes (Thamnophis elegans terrestris), a harmless species that tends to be most common and widespread in the area. If you'd like to learn more about how to identify local snakes and lizards visit californiaherps.com and send us photos of your snake findings at info@claremontcanyon.org.
Prepare for Wildfire
There have been several wildfires so far this Spring—in southern Alameda County and eastern Contra Costa. These fires are a reminder of the steps we need to take to make our homes here in the Berkeley and Oakland hills safer.
What we can do:
Put screens over vents and gutters to prevent flying embers from entering.
Reduce or remove vegetation from within five feet of our homes and garages.
Remove wooden fences within five feet as well. Ideally, remove or fireproof wooden decks.
Visit the Oakland Fire Safe Council website for more fire preparedness information and guides, wildfire safety programs, and ways to get involved.
Dave Quady (far left) with a group of birders and bird enthusiasts at our spring 2025 Bird Walk | Photo by Nancy Mueller.
Springtime birding
On Sunday, May 4th, Dave Quady—Audubon Christmas Bird Count leader for Claremont Canyon—and a group of birders and bird enthusiasts took to the Canyon in search of different bird species! Around 30 species were identified including the California Quail, Western Wood-Pewee, and Olive-sided Flycatcher. Thank you to everyone who joined the walk! If you're interested in seeing photos of these and other species found in and around Claremont Canyon visit Kay Loughman's wildlife website www.nhwildlife.net.
If you were unable to attend our spring bird walk and are interested in a future event, contact us at info@claremontcanyon.orgor fill out the form below.
California poppies (Eschscholzia californica) growing on the Chert Wall | Photo by Ruby J. Soto Cardona.
Our list is full
On June 21st we will be hosting a Geology walk led by Andrew Alden, the creator of oaklandgeology.com. For those who signed up, thank you. On this walk you will have a chance to to learn about the Claremont Chert and other geologic features in Claremont Canyon. Exact details to be determined and emailed to participants several days prior to the event. If you were unable to sign up, you can join our waitlist in case any spots open up. You can send us an email at info@claremontcanyon.org to be added to the waitlist.
Visit this 13-acre park and help restore its native wild habitat (we meet year-round). Meet at the Fireplacebelow the Evergreen Lane entrance (Map). For more informationor questionscontactWyllie.
Join us in the upper canyon as we work to restore and maintain pathways, remove invasive broom, and collect litter. We meet at Signpost 29, 1.5 miles up Claremont from the intersection of Ashby/Tunnel Rd. More information Here. Questions? Contact us at info@claremontcanyon.org.
Help restore native plants and maintain a popular trail! Weed invasive plants, plant seeds, and-if it comes to it-water native seedlings. Located in the small side canyon just north of Claremont Canyon, which is above the Clark Kerr campus. No prior experience needed. Gloves and tools are provided.
Please contact Jim Rosenau or call at (510) 845-0106.
Hiking the Canyon
We would love to hear from our members and others who are out hiking or otherwise observing nature in the canyon. Send us your pictures at info@ClaremontCanyon.org and we will feature one each month.
Watch your step! Banana slugs continue to be spotted in Garber Park. This banana slug was found during the stewards' volunteer event | Photo by Ruby J. Soto Cardona.
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As you venture outdoors this summer, take caution of the plants you touch. The photo above shows native Poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) growing abundantly in the Upper Canyon. Although it looks harmless, the oils from every part of this plant can cause mild to severe skin irritations. Keep in mind: Leaves of three, let them be. If it’s hairy, it’s a berry. If it’s shiny, watch your hiney. Visit Calflora and Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy to learn more | Photo by Nancy Mueller.
Trails are open
All trails are open and accessible throughout Claremont Canyon. For maps and complete information on trails click here. You can also take a guided tour here. Please stay safe and take all items and pet waste out with you.
