University of California Botanic Gardens
Parks
Scientists and students from the University and the community not only study the plants, but also the wildlife within the Gardens’ boundaries. Nearly 200 different kinds of birds have been observed. Some of the more conspicuous species are the Anna’s and Costa’s hummingbirds, California towhee, mockingbird, raven, red-tailed hawk, roadrunner and scrub jay.
Besides the nearly 200 types of birds officially observed, the Botanic Gardens is host to a number of mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Mammals found within the Gardens boundaries are the Audubon cottontail, Beechey or California ground squirrel, Botta pocket gopher, coyote, gray fox, kangaroo rat, opossum, pack rat and other rodents, and striped and spotted skunks. Occasionally, bobcats have been sighted. Most of these animals are nocturnal so daytime visitors rarely glimpse them – they are most likely to be seen early or late in the day during a visit to the Gardens.
Location: Botanic Gardens University of California
Riverside, California 92521
Phone: (951) 784-6962
Website: www.gardens.ucr.edu
