Encelia californica is beloved by native bees and beetles.
Now is the perfect time to hit the trails and explore. Lower Harmon Canyon is open and promises unforgettable beauty!
California brittlebush (Encelia californica) is in peak bloom! One of four sensitive plant alliances in Harmon Canyon, Encelia californica, are true Southern California locals – growing in coastal sage scrub from San Luis Obispo County to northern Baja. To spot these beauties, look for daisies with dark centers (disk flowers) and yellow “petals” (ray flowers).
Encelia californica is commonly seen on drier south and west-facing slopes and is beloved by native bees and beetles. The east side of Trail 101 is a wonderland for this special community – slow down and check out all the pollinator action!
Interesting observations are everywhere – including at your feet! In the moist early morning hours, keep your eyes peeled for the Trask shoulderband snail (Helminthoglypta traskii). Considered a sensitive species in California due to habitat loss and degradation, these beautiful, long-lived animals are thriving in the vibrant shrublands of Harmon Canyon. To distinguish them from the invasive European garden snail (Cornu aspersum) look for their narrower shell with a distinctive dark-colored band that follows the whorled spiral.
Helminthoglypta traskii are active longer than usual this year, enjoying the moist conditions of our extended rainy season. They estivate (a state of dormancy like hibernating but in response to heat and dryness) during the drier months and may not be as visible soon, so enjoy these delicate detritavores while you can.
