SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS
The third week in April (15th - 21st) was mostly sunny and dry, coming after a week or so of rain. This pond in the mountains was worth checking out.

One of several Santa Cruz Garter Snakes found near the pond.

Southern Alligator Lizard.

One of my favorite North American Snakes - Rubber Boa.

An orange striped Coast Garter Snake.

The state flower, California Poppy, was seen in many of the spots I visited.

A speedy Yellowbelly Racer.

Herp habitat.

Pacific Ringneck Snakes weren't as commonly encountered as on some previous trips.

A Coast Garter Snake sporting a bit more red than most.

A Northwest Forest Scorpion looking a little bit gravid.

A nicely marked Pacific Gopher Snake.