Dedicated to the study, exploration, and appreciation of natural history
in the Santa Ynez Valley region.

Tracking Tarantulas at Sedgwick Reserve:

Thursday, September 17, 2026

Field trip with Marion Schlinger and Nikki Evans
Back by popular demand!  It will soon be that time again as fall is mating season for tarantulas here in the Santa Ynez Valley.  This is the best time to observe these amazing spiders. Join Marion and Nikki as we unravel the mystery of the tarantulas (Aphonopelma species) that wander about our roads, yards, and fields.  Of the ten species of tarantula in California

In Search of Fall Color:

Saturday, November 21, 2026

Field Trip with Margie Popper and John Evarts
Location TBA
When it comes to autumn foliage, no one will confuse Santa Barbara County with New England. But with the right timing and location, one can find trees and shrubs in our region that put on nice displays as their leaves turn golden