CALIFORNIA — As the warm weather returns, humans are not the only species coming out to enjoy the sun. Snakes, too, can be found basking in the sun’s rays. Although most snakes in the state are harmless, the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) reminds the public to steer clear of the venomous rattlesnake and know what to do if ...

By Brian Moore — MARIPOSA — When we moved onto our property in 1999, I planted a garden. I did not use any amendments; the vegetables and flowers were radiant and our harvest abundant. Then came the battles. Along with the insects came moles, gophers, ground squirrels and devastating deer. 18 years into gardening in Mariposa County, we are again ...

MOUNTAIN AREA — When fire leads to evacuation, you may have only minutes to react. Notified via text or phone call, or even by a knock on the door, at that moment, you’re expected to grab and go. Quick — where are your pets? What do they need? A little advance planning will reduce stress and increase your chance of ...

OAKHURST — Our friend Kevin Musso, Chief Meteorologist at ABC30, was visiting his parents at their home near Oakhurst today, when everyone was reminded once again of the very real danger posed by mountain lions, even in the middle of the day. “My daughter was video taping deer outside the window of my parents’ home near Oakhurst, when suddenly a ...

Contributed by Len McKenzie — Californians, particularly in rural areas such as the Sierra foothills, are generally familiar with the pleasures and the challenges of living with wildlife. While viewing animals at close range, especially species not commonly seen, is usually exciting, some critters who live or venture close to our homes can become “problem” animals or nuisances, and occasional ...

MADERA COUNTY — The Madera County Animal Shelter wants to unite you with a forever friend by making it easier and cheaper to adopt. Now through Feb. 23, they are offering a Sweetheart Special on all dogs six months and older. Just $50 covers your adoption fee, vaccines, worming, microchip and spay or neuter fees. For lovers of Pitbulls, the ...

Contributed by Len McKenzie — Generous rains this winter have spawned a luxuriant rebirth of plant life in the Sierra foothills and Central Valley, greening up the landscape and bringing renewed vigor to its ecosystems. Beneficiaries of this largesse include the picturesque and biologically rich vernal pools that are a distinctive hallmark of this remarkable setting. The Yosemite Area Audubon ...

Contributed by Len McKenzie — OAKHURST — Here’s the event we’ve all been waiting for, as it was cancelled last week due to inclement weather and is now scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 19. Sierra foothill residents who have enjoyed Mariposan Matthew Matthiessen’s slide programs for the Yosemite Area Audubon Society (YAAS) or other local organizations know the John C. Fremont ...

OAKHURST — Here, kitty, kitty, kitty! Local thrift shop Cause 4 Paws is collecting empty cans and bottles which will be recycled and, at the end of the month, all proceeds will be donated to the Cause 4 Paws free spay and neuter program. Foothill residents are encouraged to collect recyclables in plastic bags and bring the donations to Cause 4 ...

MARIPOSA COUNTY — A gray fox in El Portal recently died from rabies. Any mammal can get rabies, but bats, feral cats, raccoons, foxes and skunks are more likely to get sick with rabies. Do not approach, touch, handle, or attempt to feed wildlife or any unfamiliar animals. Never adopt or bring wild animals into your home. Report sick, dead, ...