SANTA CLARA COUNTY
The California Poppy is the most well known flower in the state and even schoolchildren are taught to recognize it.

An interesting looking Santa Cruz Garter Snake.

Turkey Vultures occupy a diverse range of habitats like roadsides, suburbs and farmlands. They occupy forested as well as open environments; they can be found just about anywhere they can effectively find a carrion food supply.

Not only are they colorful, but Banana Slugs are the second largest terrestrial slug in the world, growing up to nearly 10 inches.

A sure sign of Spring - Giant Wakerobin.

One of the dozens of California Newts seen while kayaking one afternoon in the Golden State.

Reflecting the diversity of habitats frequented by Coast Garter Snakes, a wide variety of foods are eaten, including fish, amphibians, leeches, slugs, earthworms, lizards, snakes, small mammals and birds.

The Checkerspot Butterfly is a highly variable species, with the wing upper surface being black to dark brown and a characteristic yellow and red checkerspot pattern.

A non-native Peninsula Cooter caught while kayaking.

Deer.

Northern Pacifics are one of the most broadly environmentally tolerant of all rattlers in its choice of habitats, though they prefer areas with rocky areas and ledges. They can be found at higher elevations than any other rattlesnake – up to 9,000 feet.

Known commonly as “stinkbugs,” some species of Darkling Beetles emit noxious odors in the chemical class quinones from the ends of their abdomens or behind their heads as a defensive mechanism.

A Western Fence Lizard seen on a fence near where I parked my car.

The Jerusalem Cricket spends most of its life underground. Its large, almost humanoid head supports the necessary muscles that assist the jaws in digging in the soil and feeding on plant material.

Pacific Gopher Snakes are primarily active during the day, though are sometimes seen moving and hunting at night – especially during warm weather. They are good climbers and burrowers.

Northern Alligator Lizard - Unlike its relative the Southern Alligator Lizard (an egglaying species), this reptile gives birth to live offspring.