Spring Signs @ The Osborne Nature Area

For more photos of the latest observations at the Osborne Nature Area, visit social media accounts of Mint Pasakdee, Osborne Nature Area Curator:

• • Instagram: @scusdnaturearea – See photos of native species, and student explorations.

  • iNaturalist: Mint’s Observations – Explore local biodiversity with real-time wildlife and plant sightings.

With the warm weather in March, spring colors came early in the Osborne Nature Area. Wildflowers including California poppy, phacelia, farewell-to-spring, narrowleaf milkweed, and both yellow and purple lupines are all in bloom, creating a colorful and dynamic landscape to learn about and enjoy. With the new display colorful flowers comes an increase in pollinator activity: Gulf fritillary butterflies, bumble bees, and a variety of native bees can be seen flitting from plant to plant, gathering nectar and pollinating flowers.

A particularly exciting restoration success is the return of the pipevine swallowtail butterfly. Years ago, Bryan Osborne and his students began a pipevine restoration project, planting the host plant essential for this species. Today, that effort is paying off, with pipevine swallowtails now visiting and laying the groundwork for a hopeful comeback. We look forward to seeing this butterfly continue to return and thrive in the Osborne Nature Area.

Beyond these seasonal changes, the Osborne Nature Area remains a special place for learning, where Peterson Middle School’s Environmental Leadership students build their skills by leading field trips for elementary students, who explore relationships between plants and animals through student-led activities.

Interested in bringing your students to the Osborne Nature Area and/or The District Farm? 

Click on the pictures below for details, calendar availability, and request forms.