Coastal California - The Wild Life

coastal california T H E

W I L D

L I F E

sky • LanD • sEa Fo r e w o r d b y J e f f C o r w i n

coastal california T H E

W I L D

pvpublications.com

L I F E

coastal california T H E

W I L D

L I F E

sky • land • sea Curated & Written by Amber Becerra and Kristin Borden

“

“

In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous.

— A ristotle

Published by PV Publications Palos Verdes Peninsula, California, USA ©PV Publications LLC All other rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic, photocopying, recording. or otherwise, without permission from the publisher.

Printed and bound in USA ISBN: 978-1-7372192-1-7 Library of Congress Control Number: 2022912731 Coastal California, The Wild Life ©PV Publications LLC Written and Curated by Amber Becerra & Kristin Borden Photographed by Erik Jay and Contributing Regional Photographers Graphic Design by Lane Bullard PV Publications’ books are available at special discounts when purchased in quantity for promotions as well as fundraising or educational use. Some of the proceeds of this book support wildlife conservation through the organizations featured in this book.

Special editions can also be created to specification. For details, contact: info@pvpublications.com or the address below: PO Box 4752 Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274 www.pvpublications.com

Honored to support reforestation with One Tree Planted as part of our commitment to sustainability. PV Publications will plant one tree for every book sold. www.onetreeplanted.org

ta b l e o f c o n t e n t s Foreword............................................................................. 10 Inspiration............................................................................ 12 Introduction........................................................................ 16 SDHS Project Wildlife..................................................... 20 Corwin on Conser vation: Little Brown Bat................................................................ 38 Sea Otter Savvy................................................................. 40 Project O............................................................................. 58 International Bird Rescue............................................... 70 Corwin on Conser vation: Bald Eagle............................................................................ 96 Cougar Conser vancy....................................................... 98 Marine Mammal Care Center...................................... 112 Corwin on Conser vation: Elephant Seals.................................................................... 138 Shark Allies.......................................................................... 140 Santa Monica Mountains Fund..................................... 154 Corwin on Conser vation: Giant Gar tersnake............................................................ 182 Point Blue............................................................................ 184 Special Donors.................................................................. 202 Organization Information.............................................. 203 The Photographers.......................................................... 204 Photography Index........................................................... 208 Acknowledgements & About Us................................. 215

“

“

We are not far away from the point of no return when it comes to life on earth, and we have some radical choices to make.

—Jeff Corwin

foreword Coastal areas are some of the most important habitats for wildlife and California offers a significant portion of the nation’s oceanfront terrain. From migratory birds soaring, sun-bathing colonies of sea lions on the rocky coastline, whales feeding and migrating, nesting sea turtles, kelp forest-loving sea otters—this coastline is critical to many species’ reproduction, feeding, and socialization.

Like my latest show Wildlife Nation, this book showcases the dedicated environmental heroes that protect the natural habitats and the unique creatures that reside along the coastline. Despite the incredible array of life found in and around the great blue deep—our oceans and the coastline face serious dangers. Pollution, climate change, wildfires, exploitation, and acidification all threaten this critical ocean ecosystem and the wildlife that calls it home.

Whether it’s working with scientists who fight to protect elephant seal habitats along the coast of California or bringing three rescued California sea lions back to their homes in the wild—my work with Wildlife Nation has exposed me to both the harm that California wildlife is facing but also the magnificent dedication of local conservation heroes fighting tirelessly to save them.

One of those heroes is one of the curators of this book and the President of the Marine Mammal Care Center—a marine animal rehabilitation center that I had the pleasure of working with on my latest series. Helping to rehabilitate injured wildlife has always been a passion of mine and the challenging work that these organizations do is often overlooked.

Coastal California, The Wild Life is an opportunity to peek behind-the-scenes and catch a glimpse of the beauty that these conservationists work so hard to protect. The organizations featured in this book fight every day to ensure the survival of iconic California species. Viewing this one-of-a-kind photography allows us to be transported to these locations where we can truly appreciate this unique landscape and its inhabitants. I hope this will inspire you, as it does me, to want to protect them at all costs.

The mountain of environmental destruction we have to overcome is massive—but we must not give up the fight. Every action we take to remediate the harm, makes a difference. We are in the midst of the 6th great extinction, and this one is on us.

We’re poisoning them, burning and destroying their habitats, entangling them in fishing gear, and disturbing the ecosystem they rely on for survival. Wildlife are the innocent victims, but it doesn’t stop there.

It’s not just a loss of natural resources that we, and our children, and the next generation will depend upon. There’s a human cost as well. By saving them, we save ourselves. All species on earth cannot survive except as interconnected parts of healthy and vibrant ecosystems. Every species of animal or plant is woven together in the tapestry of life. We must keep this planet healthy and thriving. Not just for the wildlife, but for the future of all life.

Jeff Corwin Wildlife Biologist & Conservationist

11

12

i n s p i r at i o n When Kristin Borden from PV Publications approached me about creating a California wildlife book, I knew that the universe had orchestrated something special.

I was born in Pismo Beach so the California coast is in my bones. My home is now the rocky cliffs of Palos Verdes and my life is dedicated to protecting and improving the lives of the diverse array of wildlife that also inhabit this magical place. As I drive along the coastline, I find myself squinting past the marine layer hoping to catch a glimpse of a migrating gray whale. Weekends are spent traversing jagged cliffs to the abundant tide pools teeming with sea life. Once a week I rise with the sun and watch it glisten on the water’s surface only to be disrupted by the splash of a jumping fish. The beauty of California’s coast is breathtaking.

But my last few years running the Marine Mammal Care Center have exposed me to the dark reality of what lies beneath the shimmering surface. Toxic barrels of DDT decaying in our backyard. Discarded fishing nets and gear strangling our marine life and creating underwater graveyards for dolphins, sharks, turtles, and other innocent aquatic animals. People shooting sea lions, poisoning wildlife, and setting fire to our forests. Many of the horrible things I’ve seen would make you run and never look back. But we cannot run, and we can’t stop looking. The reality is: we’re our planet’s only hope.

So, with this book, I was inspired to make you fall in love. Because you protect what you love. You fight for it. And you never give up.

I ask you to open these pages in wonder. Let yourself get lost in the beauty of the California coast. Smell the salty air of the ocean. Listen to the echo of the gulls and the calls of the hungry pelicans. Feel the magic of the wind in your hair and catch the spray from a passing orca spouting hello. Feel the ground quake as the majestic mountain lion pounds through the emerald forest.

But don’t let that be the end of your journey. Look up and look around you.

What can you do to help? It’s not too late, but we must act swiftly. The organizations featured in this book are the boots on the ground. They work tirelessly and thanklessly, undoing the damage others before them have done. If you do nothing but support these organizations—you will have made a substantial difference for wildlife conservation.

But I urge you to do even more: fall in love with this planet, and do everything you possibly can to protect it.

Amber Becerra, Esq. Environmental Advocate & CEO

13

14

15

introduction The coast of California spans more than 1,100 miles and if you include the small bays and inlets, which in part are what make it so dynamic and diverse, the number goes up to over 3,000 miles.

It is the third longest coastline in the country. With the Pacific Ocean to the West, the California coast serves as a central hub of activity for humans and animals alike. Coexistence proves to be a challenge but the local wildlife fights for a chance to call this unique area home.

More than twenty-thousand rock formations and small islands line the California coast. These uniquely formed habitats are home to a variety of marine mammals, seabirds and shorebirds. An abundance of sea life fills the tide pools along the rocks when the powerful tide ebbs. Dropping beneath the waves of the Pacific Ocean lies a rich aquatic ecosystem with too many living organisms to count.

This precious coastal habitat holds creatures unknown to many other areas of the world. California has more native species than any other U.S. state and has the greatest number of endemic species, or animals that are not found anywhere else on the planet.

The coastal geography is home to not only a variety of aquatic wildlife but also terrestrial animals that inhabit the myriad vegetation that forms near the coastline. Catch a glimpse of the rich diversity of flora and fauna that graces the Golden State’s coast in the pages to come.

17

Bioluminescence occurs along the coast of California. This phenomenon is caused by dinoflagellates—a type of plankton. These marine organisms emit a flash of light in order to attract a predator to the creature trying to consume it.

San Diego Humane Society’s

P r o j e c t W ildlife San Diego Humane Society’s Project Wildlife program is the primary resource for wild animal rehabilitation and conservation education in San Diego County. Each year, San Diego Humane Society gives more than 13,000 injured, orphaned and sick wild animals a second chance.

At its state-of-the-art Pilar & Chuck Bahde Wildlife Center in San Diego, injured and orphaned wildlife—from hummingbirds, doves and ducks, to rabbits, squirrels, skunks and opossums—can heal and grow in specially designed habitats that reduce stress and meet their unique needs before they are released back to the wild. The facility’s medical and surgical suites allow the wildlife veterinary team to perform advanced medical care for species of all shapes and sizes, including orthopedic repairs and acupuncture.

www.sdhumane.org/wildlife

A 14-week-old mountain lion cub, semiconscious, emaciated and dehydrated, was brought to the San Diego Humane Society by firefighters in Idyllwild. The cub received daily fluid therapy, medications and nutrition and after doubling in weight, she was transferred to another wildlife facility where she now lives with two other mountain lions.

21

Rescued baby animals require hand feeding in the beginning of their rehabilitation journey. Care at this young age requires expert treatment.

22

Bobcat kitten, burned in the El Dorado fire, had burned paws, singed ears and was emaciated. She was treated and released back into the wild.

23

“

The work of our medical staff and Project Wildlife volunteers is guided by one word: Compassion. It is through the unwavering compassion of our team and larger San Diego community that we are able to help more than 13,000 birds and mammals each year.

Dr. Enyart performing a muzzle gland removal on a big brown bat.

“

—Jon Enyart, DVM Sr. Director of Project Wildlife

26

A young barn owl had a misaligned beak after falling from her nest which was preventing her from eating. The center’s veterinarian performed a surgery that had never been done before, inserting two metal rods through the owl’s beak and slowly straightened it using rubber bands. The young owl made a healthy recovery. He was eventually released back into the wild with a straight beak.

27

The great horned owl is also referred to as the hoot owl or tiger owl.

29

—Gary Weitzman, DVM San Diego Humane Society President & CEO

“

“

San Diego County is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the United States with the greatest number of endangered species. People from all over the county bring wildlife patients to Project Wildlife for care and we are proud to be a resource that our neighbors can depend on in order to coexist peacefully with wild animals.

Injured bald eagle was found with a wing droop and unable to fly. It received treatment at the center from the medical team and was then sent to the San Diego Humane Society’s Ramona Campus to regain strength in an aviary. It was released when it was strong enough to fly.

32

This baby peregrine falcon was found with its wing injured and was successfully rehabilitated.

33

A peregrine falcon was found unable to fly and covered in cactus spines with all of her tail feathers broken. The medical team at the center used a rare procedure called “imping” to repair them.

She was placed in a special habitat to grow stronger and was eventually released.

34

35

36

“

Whether it is a petite hummingbird or a majestic mountain lion, we put the same attention and care into every animal. And there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing our patients returned to the wild.

It makes all the hard work worthwhile.

“

—Jon Enyart, DVM Sr. Director of Project Wildlife

37

little brown bat conservation challenges White-nose syndrome, habitat loss, human/ wildlife conflict.

The population of little brown bats is declining.

They are one of many bat species suffering from white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that affects hibernating bats and causes death. Little brown bats tend to go where people go, because many of the structures we build are suitable habitat for them. The bats can transmit parasites and occasionally rabies, so control measures have been used on them in some instances. Pesticide buildup, deforestation, and mining are also detrimental to little brown bats.

c o rw i n o n

c ons er vation Species: Little Brown Bat

sea otter

savvy Sea Otter Savvy strives to foster community awareness and involvement to reduce human-caused disturbance to sea otters and promote responsible wildlife viewing. As a nonprofit that focuses on sea otter research and conservation through community outreach, we educate residents and visitors to California’s Central Coast about the vital role of sea otters in nearshore ecosystems. Our approach has three main components: leading community-sciencebased research, developing awareness through innovative outreach, and developing business norms and organizational partnerships.

Sea Otter Savvy relies on support to continue our disturbance research and educational outreach programs which are valuable to collaborating agencies and educational institutions.

www.seaottersavvy.org

A sea otter forages for food amongst the tide pools at Carmel State River Beach, California, successfully munching on a variety of tide pool-dwelling prey.

41

42

This mother sea otter wraps herself and her pup in kelp to keep them from floating away while resting.

Opposite, top: Heather Barrett counts sea otters during the annual southern sea otter census.

Opposite, bottom: Sea Otter Savvy Director, Gena Bentall, collects disturbance data at Morro Bay.

43

Salt Marsh Sea Otter

A southern sea otter feeds on a California mussel in the dark waters beneath a commercial wharf in Monterey.

46

“

I imagine the origins of the demand for eye-contact wildlife photos originates in our ache to feel a connection with wild things. As we look into the green eyes of the panther, we can imagine we are there. I argue that to favor such photos is an act of hubris. On a planet ever more dominated by people, the message of the eye-contact image is an anthropocentric one: we value the attention of the animal on us over preserving its natural state of being. The popularity of eye-contact photos is persistent with both photographers and viewers. I hope to see it diminish in coming years, replaced by images that remind us that animals do countless more interesting (and sustainable) things than noticing us.

“

—Gena Be ntall, MSc. Sea Otter Savvy Director

47

48

Sea otter foraging in the turbulent surf of Monterey Bay, photographed at Moss Landing.

A southern sea otter grooms itself while partially hauled out among emergent pickleweed in Elkhorn Slough, California.

50

With the tide going out, this female drifts in a slumber while her young pup nurses. The photo was taken while kayaking and followed the recommended greater than 60 feet (5 kayak lengths) distance.

51

“

People are getting too close, and this comes with a cost to wildlife. For many it is difficult to recognize certain actions as being a disturbance, but it is a growing concern. Social media perpetuates false information and fuels public desire for up-close wildlife encounters.

For sea otters, this public obsession puts them at particular risk. Sea otters do not store fat as blubber and they burn through calories quickly, so they require a substantial amount of time allocated for resting each day to manage this energetic demand. While they are adored by visitors who are inclined to get close, this disrupts behavior and habitat use. Through our research on the energetic cost of human disturbance to southern sea otters, we know there is a physical cost, which is compensated by having to seek out more prey. Your distance matters—there is a cost to cute—and this is why it is essential to respect the nap.

“

—Heather E. Barrett, MSc. Sea Otter Savvy Biologist

A sea otter drifts through Monterey Bay Harbor in a deep sleep.

55

Project

O

Project O, is a non-profit organization based in Laguna Beach, California with a mission to restore, protect, and sustain the ocean and the sacred life within it. Project O focuses on intentional projects that serve to protect and conserve the ocean environment.

The Blue City Network is the primary ongoing project for Project O. It is a certification system that recognizes cities, towns, and counties in California that demonstrate their communities’ commitment to healthy waterways and oceans. Certification provides a data-driven approach to assessing communities’ efforts toward protecting the ocean. Upon certification, these participants become part of a coalition of communities from all around California, collaborating in their ongoing quest to become true champions of the environment.

www.project-o.org

59

61

“

“

Our mission is to restore, protect and sustain the ocean and the sacred life within it.

—Rich German Founder, Project O

Blue whales are the largest animal ever known to live on Earth.

64

Pacific white-sided dolphins are a gregarious species and their desire for socialization extends beyond their species.

65

Mom and baby Gray whales 66

This mother gray whale and her baby calf are spotted off the California coast. Most gray whales will migrate down to Baja in time to give birth in safer, warmer waters. This mother and baby will instead experience the challenges of migration together.

67

i n t e r n at i o n a l

bird rescue Experts around the world agree: aquatic birds are in crisis. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation reports that seabirds are declining faster than any other group of birds and Pacific seabirds face the highest rate of extinction. International Bird Rescue’s work as a global conservation organization for birds in a changing world has never been more important. Since 1971, Bird Rescue has responded to over 250 oil spills and other wildlife emergencies, caring for more than 160,000 birds on six continents. With crisis response centers in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Anchorage, the organization specializes in emergency preparedness and response, day-to-day aquatic bird care, and scientific research. Innovations are shared worldwide to inspire the next generation of wildlife specialists. Bird Rescue aims to give a voice to waterbirds through conservation, advocacy, and wildlife literacy that builds empathy and encourages action.

www.birdrescue.org

71

—JD Bergeron CEO International Bird Rescue

“

“

We are treating a record number of patients each year: more than twice the total from the previous year.

Birds in a changing world face new challenges that range far beyond our original mandate to help birds in oil spills. The last couple of years have seen huge challenges for wildlife in the South Bay.

After the mysterious mass stranding of thousands of California brown pelicans in May 2022, the center came to the rescue and nursed many of these sick birds back to health. Without a clear answer as to what caused the starvation, these brown pelicans are released with hopeful optimism.

“

I’m so happy to see so many that are now strong and ready for release. Some of them have nearly doubled their body weight since being rescued, and are now feisty rather than weak and on the verge of dying.

“

—Dr. Rebecca Duerr Bird Rescue’s Director of Research & Vet erinary Science

75

78

Snowy plovers, a threatened species, were rescued during the Pipeline oil spill in Southern California.

79

80

82

A California least tern parent caring for its chick. California least terns are an endangered species and are threatened due to habitat destruction.

83

Top: An entire elegant tern colony is forced to relocate to a barge in San Pedro after they are scared from their regular breeding grounds by human disturbance.

Right: Elegant tern chicks in care at IBR after nesting habitat disturbance. These birds are getting some special pink markings. The alcohol-based ink is applied to each bird’s head and chest feathers. In addition, all the terns have a small red band attached to one leg. These visual tools will aid in the monitoring of these chicks from a distance.

85

IBR is a part of the Oiled Wildlife Care Network and is activated during an oil spill such as the 2021 Orange County Spill. Here, a wildlife rehabilitation technician is washing an oiled western grebe.

Opposite page: Laysan albatross exam.

Above: California gull and Western gull fighting for a mollusk.

Opposite page: Western gull chick had a rough start after falling out of his nest and was admitted as a patient at IBR. 89

90

A great blue heron soars from its perch with a six-foot wingspan.

91

Above: Snowy egret forages for aquatic animals as a main source of food. They are monogamous and their spring breeding season includes an impressive courtship between the female and male.

Opposite page: Whimbrels feed mostly on crabs and other marine invertebrates. They will usually remove the largest claw on the crab before consuming it.

93

c o rw i n o n

c ons er vation Species: Bald Eagle

bald eagle conservation challenges Lead poisoning, rodenticide, pesticides, habitat loss, prey loss.

The shaggy, fierce-eyed bird has been our national symbol since 1782. It wasn’t until the 1960s and 1970s that bald eagles became an emblem of the environmental movement as their numbers plummeted from the effects of the pesticide DDT. Once DDT was banned and the species was fully protected under the fledgling Endangered Species Act, however, eagle numbers began to rebound, gradually at first and then with increasing vigor.

In 2007, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the bald eagle from the federal endangered species list.

97

cougar

conservancy The Cougar Conservancy is a nonprofit organization based out of Los Angeles that provides expert recommendations and direct support to Californians seeking to prevent or resolve conflicts that may arise between communities and cougars in shared landscapes. The Conservancy’s Conflict Task Force collaborates with communities and individuals to implement reliable cougar conflict prevention techniques that serve people while conserving cougars.

The Cougar Conservancy aims to empower people with training and education that promotes coexistence with cougars and other wildlife essential to ecosystems.

www.cougarconservancy.org

A male cougar’s golden eyes are illuminated by the setting sun over the San Gabriel Mountain range in Southern California. In addition to the name cougar, the species is also referred to as mountain lion, puma, panther or catamount, which are all correct.

99

“

“

Our goals are to enhance human-cougar relationships through education, outreach, conflict management, and science-based policy.

100

—Korinna Domingo Founder, Director of the Cougar Conservancy

A cougar climbs high above the clouds blanketing Los Angeles.

101

The Cougar Conservancy works to empower communities with effective coexistence tools so humans and pets can confidently live amongst cougars. A big part of this work is assisting California residents with domestic animal protection, such as with cougar-proof enclosures.

Opposite page: A wild female cougar—dubbed “Josephine” by community scientists—strikes her best pose for the camera.

102

“

You can do the best science in the world, but unless emotion is involved it’s not really very relevant. Conservation is based on emotion.

It comes from the heart and one should never forget that.

“

—George Schaller

A spotted kitten with sapphire eyes above Santa Monica Bay.

Above: Local Cougar P-61 strolls high above the Pacific Ocean at dawn, just as his ancestors have for thousands of years.

Opposite page: Nikita, the only cougar living in the Verdugo Mountains—a severed island of green space—walks along a trail lined with California buckwheat; the city lights of Glendale glow in the background.

109

marine mammal

c a r e c e n te r The mission of the Marine Mammal Care Center is to inspire ocean conservation through marine animal rehabilitation, education, and research. Over 8,000 patients have come through their doors for crucial animal care. MMCC staff and volunteers feed patients at least 3 times per day, maintain a clean living space, provide high quality veterinary care, take daily progress notes, and monitor water quality. In service to the mission, the education program at the MMCC addresses diverse audiences in both virtual and in-person engagements and programs. Students and visitors can learn about marine animals, ocean conservation, and the vital role people play in environmental conservation. MMCC’s veterinary team contributes to important scientific research to advance marine animal rehabilitation and broader conversation efforts. MMCC relies on public support to do this crucial conservation work and to save the lives of these animals.

www.marinemammalcare.org

113

Northern elephant seal pups that were separated from their mothers are rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

116

117

“

The staff, volunteers, and supporters of the Marine Mammal Care Center are dedicated to saving sick and injured marine mammals and to giving them a second chance at life in their coastal California home. Not only do we experience the joy of returning a wild animal to its ocean home, but through this work we gain valuable scientific and medical insight into impacts on marine life that will help us insure the health of marine mammals for years to come.

“

—Dr. Lauren Palmer, MPH MMCC Hospital Director

Above is a well-known gray whale named Scarback. The adult female whale is believed to have been disfigured in the 1980s by a ship strike or an exploding harpoon.

122

“

The ocean is life. Not only for them, but for us as well. We take for granted that every other breath we take is because of the ocean.

Our planet is a blue planet and we must recognize, honor, and respect the magical waters that give us all life.

“

— Amber Becerra MMCC President/CEO

123

Separated from its mother and left for dead on the beach; MMCC took a chance on this hopeless California sea lion pup and taught it how to eat, hunt for fish, and released it back into the wild with a satellite tracking device and 9 other rehabilitated pups. This pup has been successfully tracking all over the California coastline for over 100 days and counting at the time this book was published.

125

Rescued neonate short-beaked common dolphin is triaged and receives critical veterinary care at MMCC.

126

Precious moment of birth and connection for this baby harbor seal and mother on Mother’s Beach in La Jolla. The above image shows the baby still in the amniotic sac just moments after birth. (Photo taken from a distance with a zoom lens to avoid disturbance).

128

“

As human beings we have a lot of power to destroy things, but we also have the power to repair and restore things and bring hope to nature and wildlife. This is a great example of that.

“

—Philippe Cousteau

“

“

I swear they are looking back at us saying thank you.

132

—Ashlan Cousteau

This page, top: Two harbor seal pups found close to death on the beach in Los Angeles area. They were immediately transported to MMCC by Marine Animal Rescue where they were rehabilitated.

Opposite page: World-renowned ocean conservationists Ashlan and Philippe Cousteau get emotional as they release two bonded harbor seal pups back into the wild. The pups arrived at the center emaciated. Although MMCC does not name animals in their care, (in order to keep them as wild as possible) animals with a special story are occasionally given a name upon release. These two pups were named after the Cousteaus, in honor of the incredible work they do for our oceans.

133

135

c o rw i n o n

c onse rvation Species: Northern Elephant Seals

northern elephant seal conservation challenges Fishing gear entanglements, disease, environmental change, and accidental vessel strikes remain threats to the species.

Northern elephant seals are not presently endangered. At one time, however, this species was thought to have been hunted to extinction.

They were presumed extinct by the 1880’s, after being exploited by hunters and whalers seeking to use the animals’ thick layer of blubber as an oil source. A few animals were then discovered in 1892 which were captured and killed for scientific study. Eventually it was discovered that a population of about 20 to 100 individuals had survived. Studies have shown that all individuals of the current population, which has grown to over 170,000, are relatives of these few survivors.

The population bottleneck that occurred during this time is of concern because genetic variation is reduced, creating the possibility for the population to be vulnerable to disease or reproductive failure.

139

shark

a llie s Shark Allies is dedicated to the protection and conservation of sharks and rays. The organization focuses on taking action, raising awareness and guiding initiatives that reduce the destructive overfishing of sharks on a global scale. Shark Allies campaigns address the biggest problems in shark conservation—the shark fin trade and overfishing of sharks, reducing the demand of products made from sharks, creation of marine protected areas and shark sanctuaries, and changing the way humans value sharks.

www.sharkallies.org

141

Named for the radiant blue color on its back and sides, Southern California is a major nursery area for blue sharks.

142

Seasonally, white sharks migrate over long distances from their feeding grounds off the central California coast to other feeding grounds far away in the Pacific Ocean. This photo was taken of a white shark on a cage dive in Guadalupe, Mexico; one of white sharks’ favorite stops on their migration.

Although white sharks are an apex predator, if they are respected in their ocean home they are disinterested in humans as a food source and the vast majority of human incidents are the result of mistaken identity.

143

—Stefanie Brendl Founder, Shark Allies

“

“

Researching and understanding sharks requires you to enter their world. Sometimes to film and record data, and other times just to observe. Like them or not, the ocean needs sharks, and we need the ocean.

Therefore, every person on this planet needs sharks.

A gathering of hundreds of leopard sharks off the coast of San Diego. Although this image may strike fear in some, this species of shark is known to be harmless to humans.

146

147

Curious and learning about their environment, these juvenile white sharks swim in the shadows and the sunlight off the coast of Malibu.

150

151

s a n ta m o n i c a

m o u n ta i n s f u n d The Santa Monica Mountains Fund is the official non-profit supporting the National Park Service in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.The Fund works to protect and encourage appreciation and understanding of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. It achieves this by supporting National Park Service efforts in education, science, research, improved facilities, citizen engagement, stewardship and philanthropy.

www.samofund.org

Mountain Lion P-42 was a young female in this picture when she was captured for tracking and released near Malibu Creek State Park. At the time, she was unknown by biologists who believed that she had recently dispersed from her mother.

155

Above: The purple wildflowers are the lupine. There are 82 species of this flower commonly found in the Santa Monica Mountains.

156

Opposite Page: Upper left: Yellow butterfly on mustard.

Upper right: Katydid nymph on a California poppy.

Bottom left: Tarantula hawk on narrow-leaved milkweed.

Bottom right: Swallowtail butterfly on beach sand verbena.

157

Above: Monarch butterfly populations in California have rebounded thanks to conservation efforts.

Opposite page: Monarch butterfly eggs on milkweed. Milkweed is a critical plant for conservation of the Monarch butterfly.

158

Researchers conduct a census of vegetation along a transect in Point Mugu State Park.

161

Opposite Page: Lichen, a type of organism known as epiphyte, which is a plant that grows non-parasitically on another plant.

164

165

Researchers dip net and collect to observe the California newt. Long-term monitoring of native amphibians helps detect changes over a broad landscape involving multiple watersheds subjected to various levels of urbanization, pollution, and non-native species, which can help to inform resource management decisions and actions.

166

The California red-legged frog was once a common species found in Southern California. The species was eliminated from the Santa Monica Mountains until a reintroduction effort in 2014 revived the population.

In March 14, 2017, egg masses were discovered. The rare amphibians had begun to flourish, eating insects and reproducing on their own in two of the four streams spread throughout the mountains.

167

Left: California kingsnake; center: Gopher snake; right: southern Pacific rattlesnake. Only one of these species of snake— the rattlesnake—is dangerous to humans. For your safety, always stay on designated trails and pathways, wear appropriate footwear, and if you encounter a snake in the wild do not approach.

169

Mountain Lion P-38 is a large male (130 lbs, 3-4 years old in this picture) that was captured to be tracked for an observational study with Caltrans to examine the impact of highways on carnivores.

171

172

A young Bobcat B-362, that was captured and collared a day before the Woolsey Fire gave birth to four kittens; B-364, B-365, B-366 and B-367. Using VHF radio-telemetry and GPS points from B-362’s collar, biologists from Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area located the young Bobcat and her kittens in a dense area of vegetation in a large residential backyard in Westlake Village.

173

This photo was taken of Mountain Lion P-32 checking out a monitoring camera approximately six months before he was hit by a vehicle. In an effort to reduce the number of fatal accidents to these magnificent but threatened animals, Los Angeles just broke ground in 2022 on the world’s largest wildlife crossing thanks in large part to the support of the Annenberg Foundation.

Above: This mountain lion was struck by a vehicle on Malibu Canyon Road. Mountain lions in the Santa Monica Mountains are essentially trapped on an island, bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and hemmed in by major freeways on others. Developed roads like Malibu Canyon Road that criss-cross through the mountains affect the survival rate of wildlife as well.

Right: Biologists conducting a necropsy for research purposes on P-32 after he was struck and killed.

Top: National Park Service biologist Joanne Moriarty takes a skin scraping to test P-22 for mange, a parasitic disease of the hair and skin. Blood tests later showed exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides, commonly known as rat poison. Exposure to the poison damages the animal’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to parasites and other illness. He was treated and released.

Left: P-22 shown while being treated for mange.

Right: P-22 shown six months after treatment and being released.

Mountain Lion P-22 may be one of America’s most famous mountain lions. Biologists track these animals in part to be able to intervene when they need medical attention.

Top: Black mustard blanketing mountains.

Bottom left: Carnation spurge is a highly invasive plant that threatens ecosystems in and around the Santa Monica Mountains. The plant is also toxic to humans and wildlife.

178

Bottom right and opposite page: Black mustard grows profusely and produces allelopathic chemicals that prevent germination of native plants. It is an invasive plant that can grow over 6 feet tall, dries up in the summer months, providing dangerous fuel for wildfires.

180

The Woolsey Fire was ignited on November 8, 2018 near the boundary between Los Angeles and Ventura counties and burned more acres in the Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area than any other fire in recorded history. On December 3, 2018, National Park Service researchers discovered the remains of mountain lion P-64 (below), a male mountain lion who survived the flames of the Woolsey Fire, but died a few weeks afterwards.

181

c o rw i n o n

c ons er vation Species: Giant Gartersnake

giant gartersnake conservation challenges The most significant threat to giant gartersnake survival is habitat loss and degradation, over 90% of historic wetland habitat has been lost or fragmented due to land conversion for human development.

Climate change also has a large potential to affect the giant gartersnake’s survival. Because they are so dependent on aquatic habitat, prolonged drought can reduce the amount of water in natural wetlands as well as water available for managed marshes and rice agriculture. Further complications can occur if farmers are either not allotted water rights to grow rice in particular years or if they choose to grow crops other than rice either due to drought or other reasons.

183

point

blue Point Blue’s 160 scientists work to reduce the impacts of climate change, habitat loss, and other environmental threats. They develop nature-based solutions to benefit both wildlife and people. They work from the Sierra to the sea, across the Western Hemisphere, and as far away as Antarctica, preparing for the changes—and challenges—ahead. They partner with land and water managers, fishers, ranchers, farmers, cities, counties, and others to improve the health of our planet. Point Blue’s Coastal Program scientists study the links between what’s happening in the nearshore ocean and the health of coastally breeding marine birds throughout California.

Human activities and changes in food availability impact marine bird colonies along our coast. To address these impacts, Point Blue works with resource managers and local citizens to ensure that management tools like marine protected areas (MPAs) are effective at protecting food and reducing disturbance. At the same time, by studying coastal bird populations, which reflect the changes in their habitats, they are tracking the impacts of climate change in nearshore ocean food webs. Science-driven conservation work like this is needed to guide and inform a healthy future for wildlife populations as well as human industries like fishing and tourism.

www.pointblue.org

185

Left: Point Blue biologist Julie Howar measuring growth of a Western gull chick.

Right: Newly hatched Western gull chick.

186

Juvenile Western gull captures a purple sea urchin from the tide pools.

188

“

California’s coastal habitats are some of the most threatened places on earth.

The human desire to be close to the ocean has resulted in millions of people inhabiting the California coastline and over 50 million people visiting California’s coast on an annual basis. In addition to this direct conflict with humans, coastal wildlife populations are dealing with climate change impacts like sea level rise, ocean acidification, and marine heat waves. It is critical that we protect and restore habitats throughout the coast to provide safe havens where these populations can adapt to our rapidly changing planet.

“

—Dan Robinette Coastal Program Leader, Point Blue Conservation Science

189

Left: Point Blue biologist Jamie Miller holds a western snowy plover chick with new colored leg bands Right: Newly hatched western snowy plover chicks.

Opposite, top right: Western snowy plover chicks waiting patiently to be weighed and banded.

Bottom: Adult male western snowy plover.

190

California Least tern fledgling getting wings measured then banded.

192

Above: Double-crested cormorants. The double crest is only visible on adults during breeding season. Many times they can be seen standing with their wings spread out to dry. Their feathers can get soaked rather than staying dry because they have less preen oil than other birds.

Opposite page: Brandt’s cormorant carrying seaweed that it will use to build a nest. Brandt’s cormorant is the largest cormorant on the Pacific Coast.

195

Above: American avocets on a coastal mud flat.

Opposite page: Marbled godwit prepares to take flight.

196

197

Above: Black oystercatchers in their rocky coastal habitat.

Opposite page, top: Biologist Lee Aulman holds a recently hatched pigeon guillemot chick.

Opposite page, bottom: Adult pigeon guillemot roosting on coastal rock.

198

200

201

special donors

Thank you to our special donors who believed in this project before it was even a reality. Just like a healthy eco-system, all trophic levels of the food chain are of equal importance in assuring the balance of nature and survival of all species. Your gifts, at all levels, were critical to getting this book printed.

APEX PREDATORS: In Memory of Marianna Robertson, by Rita Martin Dr. Andreas Kassel & Mrs. Marion Kassel Elizabeth Friedman

Mesopredators: Jill Bridleman Liz Schindler Johnson Barbara Wadkins

Toni Arkoosh-Pinsky Reginald & Katharine Barrett Nancy Vandermey

Herbivores: Michelle Butler Tammy Da Costa Gomez Michael Elkins Joy Miike Tomi Vacca Elizabeth Kendrick Galowich Carol Steenson

Jen Moran Sea Otter Channel Richard Delameter Dr. Catherine F. Jervey Hazel Simone Fram Judy LeVan Fram & Michael Scott Fram

Producers: Jacquelyn A. Campbell Carmen Elizabeth “Betty” La Franco Lara Hanlon Linda “sealgrl” Hernandez Steve Horowitz Andra Janieks Aynee Osborn Ann C. Philippon Zoe Clara Eugenie Claudia Reed Keely Rockefeller Donna L. Dutcher

202

Austin Beal Starlyn Howard Monica DuClaud Flo and Ken Chotiner Greg Wilk Cynthia Dunbar Mindy Rothstein Mann Marshall & Jennifer White Wendy Sparks Jeff Torquemada Amy Wong Kathryn Degner

Kevin & Linda Saltzman Mrs. Janie Kahlie Christa and Dale McIntosh El Cortez Owners’ Association Ann Zivotsky Jim & Wendy Kaiser Jennifer Sears Chris Wilson Mark and Loretta Chiolis Greg Wilburn Nancy Gallagher Sabrina England Steven Girmant

Emma Howells Christian Romar Anna Thea Bogdanovich Renee Fenty Lisa Golubiewski Louise Prompers Ron Jay Wilson Mark Turner Melissa McKeehan Kathleen Mellon Lauren Palmer Lori Olsen Barbara James

o rg a n i z at i o n i n f o r m at i o n

All of the organizations featured in this book operate as a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) and donations are tax-exempt.

San DIEGO Humane Society Project Wildlife

5433 Gaines St. San Diego, CA 92110 619.299.7012 www.sdhumane.org @sdhumanesociety Tax ID: 95-1661688

Sea Otter Savvy

1961 Main St. #199 Watsonville, CA 95076 www.seaottersavvy.org @seaottersavvy Tax ID: 85-0961529

Project O

PO BOX 324 Laguna Beach, CA 92652 www.project-o.org @ProjectOforOcean Tax ID: 81-2593380

point blue conservation science

3820 Cypress Drive, Suite 11 Petaluma, CA 94954 707.781.2555 www.pointblue.org @pointblue_conservationscience Tax ID: 94-1594250

Santa Monica Mountains Fund

401 West Hillcrest Drive Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 805.370.2341 www.samofund.org @samofund Tax ID: 95-4187832

Cougar Conservancy

Please make checks payable to “SEE” with the “Cougar Conservancy” written in the memo section and mail to the following address: ATTN: Cougar Conservancy 23564 Calabasas Rd STE 201 Calabasas, CA 91302 800.930.1087 www.cougarconservancy.org @cougarconservancy Tax ID: 95-4116679

Marine Mammal Care Center

3601 S Gaffey Street, #8 San Pedro, CA, 90731 310.548.5677 www.marinemammalcare.org @marinemammalcare Tax ID: 47-5249182

Shark Allies

PO Box 102 Venice, CA 90294 www.sharkallies.org @sharkallies Tax ID: 47-2097925

International Bird Rescue

4369 Cordelia Road, Fairfield, California 94534 707.207.0380 www.birdrescue.org @intbirdrescue Tax ID: 94-1739027

203

Th e photographers Thank you to the amazingly talented individuals who showcase the beautiful world we live in through the eye of their camera lens.

We cannot thank these creative professionals enough for their contributions to this book and the organizations that they support.

Whether they are taking photos of the land, sea, sky or the animals that live on the California coastline, they are creating and preserving history.

The photographers in Coastal California have generously donated all of the photography you see in this book. Their patience, professionalism and selflessness should be acknowledged and celebrated. We thank them for their invaluable contributions to this book. If you are interested in a photo or print, please contact the photographer directly.

e r i k j ay

www.erikjay.com

Erik Jay was born and raised in Palos Verdes, California. Since day one, he has been given every opportunity and lesson that comes with respecting nature as his neighbor. His formative years brought curiosity, with answers brought through thoughtful parenting and education.

His fondest memories are walking through the tree lined areas and beaches with his father Edward, who taught him the valuable lessons that come with living in an area that has been loved and respected by generations before.Those lessons were the foundation that provided Erik with the appreciation to capture the elements of architecture and landscape of Palos Verdes; giving way for his first book, The Great Peninsula.

Erik’s grandfather was a professional photographer who often partnered with Ansel Adams. He handed Erik his first camera and taught him the elements of landscape photography coupled with darkroom development. Throughout the years, Erik took his father’s teachings, his grandfather’s photographic eye and put it to use during solo explorations throughout the canyons and open fields. It was the perfect place for Erik to be in; trading in being awkward for being aware; exploring, learning history with handson relics while taking photos. Now, incorporating his love for animals and respect for wildlife, he has contributed to the photography of Coastal California:The Wild Life.

His reflections of childhood have carried forward with contributions and volunteering to local schools and local organizations. Erik continues to work with various students to help them build their own paths to artistic success while always acquiescing to his own evolution in the artistic world.

Andrew Toth

www.andrewtoth.photography

For over 15 years Andrew has been working throughout the United States and internationally as a freelance photographer, specializing in celebrity red carpets, runway shows, designer presentations, concerts, product launches, wildlife, and film/television behind-the-scenes.

His love for photography began while living in Leiden, Holland. The lively culture and vast landscapes inspired him to capture moments of light and humanity during my daily wandering. Countless cameras, lenses, and film have accompanied Andrew on his photographic journey, and all these years later he still finds excitement in the latest gadgets and techniques in pursuit of the perfect photograph.

204

Rich German

@richgermanlb

Rich German has been a successful business coach, philanthropist, photographer, and entrepreneur for over 20 years. An avid paddleboarder living in Laguna Beach, California, he has been on the water nearly every day since 2010. An encounter with a pod of 4 orcas in 2015 garnered international media attention and connected him with some of the leading ocean conservationist organizations.

When he learned firsthand about the peril our ocean and the marine life are facing, his hobby turned into a passion to protect them. In 2017, he founded Project O. Rich’s third book, Blue Laguna, chronicles his up close and personal experiences with dolphins and whales. The book is available for sale and 100% of proceeds go to Project O. Rich enjoys exploring his creative side by playing the guitar, painting, writing, and photography. When he is not working he can most likely be found relaxing on the beach or on the water.

Jami Leslie Feldman

www.underwaterpaparazzi.com

Jami Leslie Feldman is a southern California based photographer, avid scuba diver, and Divemaster. Her photography passion began around age 11 in a black and white darkroom class. That inevitably evolved into underwater photography when she was scuba certified in 2008. She loves the beauty of the underwater world, the challenge of cold water diving, and the creative outlet it brings. Her goal is to help inspire, educate, and promote ocean conservation efforts through photography and video. And make you smile with a few goofy posts in between. She and her husband will dive as often as conditions (and a toddler) will allow so follow along on her social media channels to see what’s happening down in southern California!

C a r l o s G au n a

carlosg@themalibuartist

M a r k G i r a r d e au

www.orangecountyoutdoors.com

Mark Girardeau’s photography is rooted in helping others. He is the founder of Orange County Outdoors, which is a website that features wildlife, events, beaches, parks and other outdoor features specific to Orange County. Created in 2016 with an Instagram account, this website was created soon after and was inspired by his father’s passing from brain cancer in 2014. He noticed it was almost impossible to gather information online specifically pertaining to the wildlife in Orange County.

Today Mark is a prolific photographer shooting all over the county and showcasing this beautiful community. He loves sharing his photos and videos of wildlife with people and doing his part to showcase the beauty of Orange County with the hopes he will educate others about taking care of the environment and the wildlife in it.

Carlos Gauna, famously known as The Malibu Artist, is no stranger to being behind the camera and capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments. Before the pandemic, Gauna made his living photographing weddings. But when lockdown wiped out any new opportunities, he quickly chased his passion and new hobby, aerial photography of the Gray Whale migration past Malibu’s Point Dume. While filming the whales, Carlos witnessed one of the most mysterious, yet iconic, creatures of the Pacific Ocean, great white sharks. Carlos’ refreshing take on white shark footage is informative and educational and he never discloses his location—in order to protect the sharks. What could be used to sensationalize shark-human encounters, Carlos instead sends to scientists around the world for data collection, behavioral studies and supports conservation efforts like those of Shark Allies.

205

C o n n a r L’ E c u y e r

www.connarl.photos

Jason Klassi

www.expeditionearth.org

Jason Klassi is a prize-winning wildlife photographer, Emmy-nominated writer and author. He’s been camera-trapping mountain lions in the Santa Monica Mountains ever since his peaceful encounter with one. Jason is the founder and President of Expedition Earth, Inc., a 501c3 corporation dedicated to enhancing life on Earth, in the oceans and in space. “I’m inspired by the animals that live among us but we very rarely see. To walk in their footsteps in the Santa Monica Mountains is a humble and profound privilege.”

Growing up in the greater Los Angeles area (Ventura County) Connar has a deep appreciation for The Golden State and has a passion for capturing the beauty of the landscape and wildlife. He plans to use his photography to help others. From working at the National Park Service, to raising awareness about military and first responders who deal with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder—PTSD—he continues to think of ways to do that. He was a volunteer photographer for the National Park Service and during that time, he shot many of the beautiful landscape photos in the Santa Monica Mountains Fund section and beyond. He attended Conserve School and graduated in Spring 2013 (The CS6 program), then received his Associates in Science in Film, TV, and Digital Media from Moorpark College in 2016. He is a graduate of California State University-Channel Islands, with a Bachelor’s of Studio Art, focused in photography.

Sandrine B i z i au x - S c h e r s o n

www.scherson.com

johanna turner

www.cougarmagic.com

Johanna Turner grew up in a rural town in upstate New York and moved to Los Angeles in 2000. She was excited to move to California where mountain lions were rumored to roam. She began hiking in the local mountains looking for a mountain lion paw print. Hiking turned into tracking, and tracking turned into trail cameras.

She started camera trap photography in 2009 and since then has turned her passion into advocacy and conservation. Donated photos have raised funds to preserve hundreds of acres of habitat for wildlife with groups including Arroyos and Foothills Conservancy, Transition Habitat Conservancy, and National Wildlife Federation, and contributed to young artist programs through SAMO Fund.

Johanna also serves Cougar Conservancy as an Advisory Committee member.

Johanna’s images have been featured in Discover Magazine, published ecological studies and textbooks, and her video work for documentaries can be seen on Apple TV and National Geographic Channel.

206

Sandrine was born in France and moved to California 13 years ago. She discovered photography while a young girl in middle school and found a special love for wildlife photography in 2013. With wildlife photography came her passion for birds and for environmental issues. She is a volunteer for Sea and Sage Audubon and part of a team protecting threatened species on our beaches. She is married and has 2 sons, Antoine and Noah.

S c ot t A l e x a n d e r J ac k

www.sajphotography.org

Scott graduated fromTyler School of Art in Philadelphia in 1979 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Photography. He has spent the last 40 years as a Professional Sports Photographer. Now, retired, he has dedicated his photography to wildlife and macro imaging.

Emily R ice & Dan Robinette

@shotsandcrafts805

Emily Rice and Dan Robinette are two California wildlife biologists who like to capture their experiences with nature through photography, plant and seaweed pressings, and cyanotype prints.They spend much of their free time adventuring up and down the California coast. They have joined their artistic talents to form Shots and Crafts 805 and produce pieces of coastal art. Emily was born in Maryland, earned her B.S. in Wildlife Science at Virginia Tech, and then started her career on North Carolina’s barrier islands where she studied shorebirds and seabirds. She moved to San Diego in 2011 and studied the California least tern and Western snowy plover before moving to the central coast of California. Dan earned a B.S. in Marine Biology and M.S. in Biology from California State University, Long Beach before starting his career studying seabirds along California’s central coast. He spends much of his time studying the diet and foraging behavior of nearshore seabird species. He is fascinated by the roles these species play in the nearshore marine ecosystem and uses their behavioral patterns to understand how changes in ocean conditions affect the populations of the fishes they consume.

Joe Tomoleoni

G e n a B e n ta l l

www.seaottersavvy.org/our-team

Since 2001, Gena has worked as a sea otter biologist, studying sea otters in such locations as the Aleutian Islands, Russia’s Commander Islands, San Nicolas Island off the coast of Southern California, and along the Central California coast. After years of studying sea otters in the wild, she has witnessed first-hand the chronic nature of disturbance by human recreation activities. In early 2014 she first began to pursue the idea of organizing a program specifically dedicated to alleviating this disturbance through education. Gena has directed the Sea Otter Savvy program since 2015 and currently serves as Director and President of the Board of Directors.

H e at h e r B a r r e t t

www.seaottersavvy.org/heather-barrett

Heather’s interest in sea otter conservation and ecology has developed through her undergraduate degree at UC Santa Cruz, internship through the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and graduate research at Moss Landing Marine Laboratories. As the Science Communication Director, Heather refines science communication strategies, oversees creation and promotion of science-related materials, leads science-related media relations, and develops special projects for outreach that will support Sea Otter Savvy’s mission. As the Research Scientist, Heather continues her research interests in human disturbance to sea otters.

www.ecoexposurephotography.com

Joe is a nature and wildlife photographer, biologist, and founder of Eco Exposure Photography. His pursuit of his subjects have taken him across the globe and into a variety of habitats from frigid oceans to sweltering rainforests. Joe’s images have been published in a variety of magazines and journals, displayed in zoos and aquaria, and widely used among the scientific community. Joe seeks to showcase the incredible natural diversity of our planet and hopes that his images will help provide a voice for the animals, while educating and inspiring a sense of wonder, conservation and responsibility for our natural world.

M o rg a n R e c t o r

www.seawithmorgan.com

Morgan Rector is a photographer, scientist, and teacher in Monterey, California.

Through photography, she strives to capture wildlife and wild places in a way that will inspire a drive to protect these creatures and areas. Her passion for conservation also extends into other areas of her career, driving her to work as a scientist, high school teacher, and even to co-found a science education nonprofit, OceansMicro.

W e N d y S pa r k s & J e f f T o rq u e m a d a

www.jeffandwendyphotography.com

Jeff and Wendy are nature photographers and wildlife conservationists. They use their images to promote an awareness and respect for all things wild and want their photographs to provide people with a reminder of the importance of connecting with wildlife on an emotional level.Their goal is to educate people to be respectful while observing or photographing fauna. Photography has allowed them to gain a more intimate perspective on wildlife without human interference.

I n g r i d Tay l a r

www.ingridtaylar.com

Ingrid Taylar is a writer, photographer, and wildlife advocate in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her time as a volunteer wildlife rehabilitator helped create the ethical framework that guides her field practice today. Through her lens, she hopes to inspire the same care and passion for wildlife and conservation that inform her own work and endeavors.

207

photography index

Cover Jason Klassi

Page 6 Mark Girardeau

Page 14 Erik Jay

Page 22-23 San Diego Humane Society

208

Page 15 Erik Jay

Page 1 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 2-3 Carlos Gauna

Page 4 Erik Jay

Page 8-9 Erik Jay

Page 10 Andrew Toth

Page 12 Erik Jay

Page 16-17 Connar L’Ecuyer

Page 18-19 Jami Leslie Feldman

Page 20 San Diego Humane Society

Page 24 San Diego Humane Society

Page 26 Mark Girardeau

Page 27 San Diego Humane Society

Page 28-29 Erik Jay

Page 30 Erik Jay

Page 32-33 San Diego Humane Society

Page 34 San Diego Humane Society

Page 35 Erik Jay

Page 36 Erik Jay

Page 38-39 Andrew Toth

Page 40 Morgan Rector

Page 42 Top: Gena Bentall Bottom: Heather E. Barrett

Page 43 Wendy Sparks & Jeff Torquemada

Page 44-45 Erik Jay

Page 46 Joe Tomoleoni

Page 48-49 Ingrid Taylar

Page 50 Joe Tomoleoni

Page 51 Wendy Sparks & Jeff Torquemada

Page 54-55 Morgan Rector

Page 56-57 Erik Jay

Page 58-59 Mark Girardeau

Page 53 Heather E. Barrett

Page 60 Erik Jay

Page 61 Top: & Bottom: Rich German

209

Page 63 Rich German

Page 70 Erik Jay

Page 78 Sandrine Biziaux-Scherson

Page 86-87 International Bird Rescue

210

Page 79 International Bird Rescue

Page 64-65 Rich German

Page 66 Background: Erik Jay Center: Rich German

Page 72 Angie Trumbo

Page 74-75 International Bird Rescue

Page 76-77 Erik Jay

Page 80-81 Erik Jay

Page 82-83 Sandrine Biziaux-Scherson

Page 84 Top: Sandrine Biziaux-Scherson Bottom: Erik Jay

Page 90-91 Erik Jay

Page 92-93 Erik Jay

Page 88 International Bird Rescue

Page 89 Erik Jay :

Page 67 Center: Rich German

Page 68-69 Erik Jay

Page 85 International Bird Rescue

Page 94-95 Erik Jay

Page 102 Erik Jay

Page 96-97 Andrew Toth

Page 103 Johanna Turner

Page 98 Johanna Turner

Page 105 Jason Klassi

Page 101 Johanna Turner

Page 106-107 Erik Jay

Page 108 Johanna Turner

Page 110-111 Erik Jay

Page 112 Erik Jay

Page 114-115 Erik Jay

Page 116-117 Erik Jay

Page 118 Erik Jay

Page 120-121 Carlos Gauna

Page 122 Mark Girardeau

Page 124-125 Erik Jay

Page 109 Jason Klassi

211

Page 126 Top: Erik Jay Bottom: MMCC

Page 127 Erik Jay

Page 128 Jami Leslie Feldman

Page 129 Erik Jay

Page 130 Brenda Cash

Page 132 Brenda Cash

Page 134 Erik Jay

Page 135 Jami Leslie Feldman

Page 136 Bottom left: Lauren Eades Top, bottom right: Erik Jay

Page 137 Erik Jay

Page 138 Andrew Toth

Page 140 Jami Leslie Feldman

Page 142 Jami Lesie Feldman

Page 143 Shark Allies

Page 145 Shark Allies

Page 146-147 Jami Leslie Feldman

Page 148-149 Shark Allies

Page 154 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 156 Page 157 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains Top left: NPS, Santa Monica National Recreation Area Mountains National Recreation Area Top right: Dan Robinette Bottom left: Erik Jay Bottom right: Emily Rice

Page 150-151 Carlos Gauna

212

Page 152-153 Connar L’Ecuyer

Page 133 Top left, right: Marine Animal Rescue Bottom: Brenda Cash

Page 158 Dan Robinette

Page 159 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 160-161 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 169 Left, Center: NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Right: Mark Girardeau

Page 162-163 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 164 Connar L’Ecuyer

Page 170 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 172-173 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 180-181 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 166-167 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 168 Connar L’Ecuyer

Page 174-175 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 176-177 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 178-179 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 182-183 Andrew Toth

Page 184 Erik Jay

Page 186 Point Blue

Page 187 Emily Rice

Page 165 NPS, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Page 188 Erik Jay

213

Page 190 Left: Emily Rice Right: Jamie Miller

Page 191 Top: Point Blue Bottom: Emily Rice

Page 192 Top: Emily Rice Bottom: Point Blue

Page 198 Erik Jay

Page 199 Top, bottom: Emily Rice & Dan Robinette

Page 200-201 Erik Jay

Back cover Mark Girardeau

214

Page 193 Emily Rice

Page 194 Dan Robinette

Page 195 Emily Rice

Page 196 Emily Rice

Page 215 Nicholas Kouzmanoff

Page 216 Andrew Toth

Page 197 Erik Jay

We’d like to thank the people who helped us turn this dream into a reality: Our families who have always supported us; our incredible children Grace & Ross Borden and Mateo & Leo Becerra, who inspire us to leave the world a better place than we found it; Jeff Corwin, for not only believing in this project but for his lifetime commitment to wildlife; Lane Bullard, our talented graphic designer, who tolerated far too many rounds of edits; the photographers whose magical images made this book come to life and be tangible heritage for the next generation; and last but not least, to the Indigenous Peoples of California who nourished these beautiful lands and who truly know what it means to be in balance with nature and all living things. Finally, we dedicate this book to P-54, the majestic mountain lion mother who was struck by a vehicle and killed during the making of this book.

One of her kittens is featured on the very first page.

Kristin borden

@rinstragram or website here

Kristin is the owner and CEO of PV Publications. She has published two coffee table books and over 100 magazine issues. Her passion for printing began over 25 years ago and it has evolved into what it is today, a multimedia print and digital platform, the PV Magazine brand-which includes a monthly printed publication and hub for the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and a book publishing business.

Her objective has been to create a print and digital platform based on positive and thoughtfully intentioned publications and books with the purpose of doing good and supporting others.

Kristin believes that media done right is the best form of unspoken language and the relationships she has developed through her magazines and books are what keeps her in love with the publishing business.

Her first published book, Palos Verdes, The Great Peninsula, was a collaboration with a lifelong Palos Verdes photographer, Erik Jay. This ignited her love for beautiful photography and the realization of how powerful images can stir emotions. She knew immediately this was her calling and she saw an opportunity to use the platform to make a difference, connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals.

Kristin hopes you will enjoy the compelling images in this book and support the spotlighted organizations in it, knowing that we are all part of a much bigger purpose on this planet and what that purpose is will be up to you.

Amber Becerra

@respectthewildlife

Amber’s first love was a starving stray puppy she named “Lucky” who showed up on the front porch of her childhood home when she was 5. Ever since then, injured or lost animals would have a way of finding her wherever she went. What seemed like a coincidence would later become her life path. While studying law at Berkeley, Amber became an animal rights and environmental activist. She was a Board Member for the Ecology Law Quarterly and Programs Director of the Environmental Law group. These studies would later land her the role as President/CEO at the Marine Mammal Care Center where she has spent the last three years of her career turning around an organization that was on the verge of closure when she joined the Board in 2019. Amber founded her own nonprofit in 2021 called the Wildlife Protection Alliance, an organization dedicated to creating a world where humans and animals peacefully and ethically coexist. Her passion for animals extends beyond the professional, into her home sanctuary in Palos Verdes where her family has 11 animals including a rescue pig named Nirvana and a rescue ball python named Bowie. When Amber is not trying to save the world she’s out there enjoying it—traveling, scuba diving, snowboarding, and meditating her way around the globe.

215

“

This book will take you on a photographic journey across the California coast, providing an insider’s view of the local wildlife and the heroes working to care for it. Coastal California, The Wild Life captures the essence of California—from its stunning ocean landscapes and breathtaking wilderness, to its unusual variety of flora and fauna unique to the geography and climate of this dynamic state. It is a celebration of the many wildlife organizations whose incredible conservation work is featured.

“

—Amber beCerrA

ISBN 978-1-7372192-1-7

90000>

9 781737 219217

pvpublications.com