By Audrey F. Baker
Etymologists, those who study word origins, tell us April derives from of the Latin word aperire, meaning “to open,” designating it as the month when flowers and trees bud. In Southern California, our native plant calendar hosts year-round blooms. Each month brings a new succession of species coming into full glory.
April is very special at Mission Tails Regional Park. It unveils the awe-inspiring, towering grandeur of an iconic plant, Chaparral Candle (Hesperoyucca whipplei). Its impressive and fast-growing single stalk can reach 13 feet in height, with half that length devoted to producing hundreds of waxy, purple-white flowers.
April is also an awakening in the animal world. The rocky crevices of MTRP host natal bobcat dens alive with activity as the next generation of agile and stealthy hunters enters the world of nature.
Our MTRP Trail Guide walks are an opportunity to learn more about natural Southern California, with its unique landscapes, habitats, local history, plant and animal life. The walks are free, interesting, fact-filled, and geared to all ages and interests. Grab sturdy shoes, that comfortable hat, water bottle and sunscreen and hit the trail!
Morning walks are offered every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. You’ll start from the park’s Visitor and Interpretive Center, 1 Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Carlos. The walk beginning from the Kumeyaay Lake Campground Entry Station, 2 Father Junipero Serra Trail, at the San Carlos-Santee border, gives a different perspective of the park and its diverse habitats. These walks are offered from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, and take in historic Old Mission Dam.
Wildlife Tracking presents the world of tracks, scat bedlays and other evidence of lesser-seen animals inhabiting the park. Join in for two hours of dirt-time fun – wear long pants for close-up observation. See you Saturday, April 2 at 8:30 a.m. in front of the Visitor Center.
Discovery Table: Bird Nests is your opportunity for up-close examination of “avian architecture.” We showcase the variety of shapes, sizes and nest designs, and illustrate how each best serves its occupants. Try your skill at matching the right egg to its nest while gathering fun bird facts from Trail Guides. Stop by our hands-on science table in the Visitor Center lobby on Saturday, April 9 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Bird Old Mission Dam with MTRP Birding Guides Jeanne Raimond and Millie Basden. The popular bird habitat is further energized by mating and nesting activity and the engaging songs of resident and migrant species. Binoculars and bird book are recommended. See you at 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 16 at the parking lot of Old Mission Dam, 2 Father Juniper Serra Trail for the two-hour exploration.
Star Party shines on as MTRP resident star gazer George Varga focuses skyward for solar exploration. George tells us with the moon waxing toward full, Jupiter and some of its moons will be visible. He’ll also scope the high position of Ursa Major allowing views of the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) and possibly M81 and M82 galaxies. Come see real star power from 7-10 p.m. Saturday, April 16. Meet at the far end of the Kumeyaay Campground Day Use Parking Lot.
La Mesa Walk and Talk combines the scenic backdrop of the teaming shores of Lake Murray and a fun stroll with your MTRP Trail Guide. After a brief chat on this month’s topic, “Wood Ducks and Ospreys,” we’re off to further enjoy our morning in nature. Meet us Tuesday, April 19 at the ball fields by entering the reservoir at Murray Park Drive and Belle Glade Avenue, La Mesa.
Family Discovery Walk emphasizes sharing nature’s spring magic as a family experience. With fresh blooms dotting the landscape, both the plant and animal world are enlivened, shedding winter dormancy for spring-time regeneration. Our Trail Guide-hosted interactive outing focuses on fun, childhood enrichment, and memorable outdoor moments. Meet inside the Visitor Center, Sunday, April 24, 3-4:30 p.m.
Birding Basics enhances your nature experience by identifying birds at a glance! MTRP Birding Guide Winona Sollock’s class explains five simple techniques and gives tips on field guide use. (Bringing one is optional.) Class meets in Classroom A, inside Visitor Center on Saturday, April 30 from 1-2:30 p.m.
Visit www.mtrp.org for more information and our events calendar, or call 619-668-3281. Special walks can be arranged for any club, group, business or school by contacting Ranger Chris Axtmann at 619-668-2746 or at caxtmann@mtrp.org. Meanwhile, come on out and enjoy the park!
—Audrey F. Baker is a trail guide at Mission Trails Regional Park. Reacher her at aud1baker@gmail.com.
