Nature Center
Map Satellite This nature center is part of the Whittier Narrows County Recreation Area. Though highly disturbed, it contains one of the few remnants of any size of the southern alluvial woodland community within the mid and lower reaches of the San Gabriel River. Sycamore, Platanus racemosa, Fremont and black cottonwood, Populus fremontii and Populus trichocarpa, elderberry, Sambucus mexicana, coast live oak, Quercus agrifolia, and willow, Salix spp., are native here. As an oasis in an urban area, animal life is abundant. Four species of amphibians, eight of reptiles, twenty-two mammal and 178 bird species have been observed in the area. Of note is the white-tailed kite, Elanus leucurus, which has bred here. Numerous waterfowl are found in or near the area during the migratory season. The area lies on the Quaternary alluvium of the San Gabriel Wash. Integrity: Numerous exotic plants have been introduced, and there are buildings, walkways, lawns, etc. The area has been a wildlife sanctuary since 1939. Use: Present December 1979
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2008 Steven Louis Hartman
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