Big Bear, CA
I quiet mountain community full of back country adventure.
Western Gray Squirrel  (Sciurus griseus)
The Western Gray Squirrel (Sciurus griseus) is a tree squirrel species native to the western United States. Known for its striking appearance and arboreal lifestyle, this species plays a significant ecological role in its habitat.
Description
The Western Gray Squirrel displays notable characteristics in its appearance and behavior.
- Size and Coloration: Adults typically measure between 46 to 61 centimeters (18 to 24 inches) in length, including their bushy tail, which comprises about half of their total length. They weigh between 400 to 700 grams (14 to 25 ounces). The coloration of their fur varies geographically but generally includes shades of gray, with white underparts and a distinctive white fringe on their tails.
- Habitat and Range: Western Gray Squirrels inhabit a variety of forested habitats, including mixed coniferous forests, oak woodlands, and riparian areas. Their range extends from Washington and Oregon through California and into parts of Nevada.
- Behavior: These squirrels are primarily arboreal, spending much of their time in trees. They are agile climbers, using their strong hind limbs and sharp claws to navigate branches with ease. They build nests, called dreys, out of twigs and leaves in the canopy for shelter and raising young.
Diet
The Western Gray Squirrel is omnivorous, with a diet consisting of a diverse array of food items.
- Vegetation: They feed on a variety of nuts, seeds, fruits, berries, and acorns. Oak trees are particularly important food sources, and these squirrels play a role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration by caching and forgetting seeds.
- Insects: In addition to plant matter, they also consume insects, bird eggs, and small vertebrates, supplementing their diet with protein-rich prey.
Range
Reproduction
Breeding typically occurs from late winter to early spring, with females giving birth to one to six young, though litter sizes usually range from two to three. The gestation period lasts approximately 36 to 40 days. The young are born hairless and helpless, relying on their mother for warmth and nourishment until they are weaned at around 10 to 12 weeks of age.
Conservation Status
The Western Gray Squirrel faces several threats to its populations, primarily due to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as competition and predation from invasive species such as the Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis). Additionally, urbanization, logging, and wildfires have further impacted their habitat and population dynamics. While specific conservation efforts vary across their range, maintaining and restoring suitable habitat and implementing measures to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts are essential for the long-term survival of this species.
The Western Gray Squirrel is a charismatic and ecologically important species in western North American forests. Understanding its biology, behavior, and conservation needs is crucial for preserving its populations and ensuring the health of forest ecosystems where it resides. Continued research and conservation efforts are necessary to address the various threats facing this iconic tree squirrel species.
Classification
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Chordata |
| Order | Mammalia |
| Family | Rodentia |
| Genus | Sciurus |
| Species | griseus |
References
The Saturday Review, November 17, 1894
J.C. Bicknell’s newspaper articles on the Lost Dutchman Mine, published in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, played a significant role in popularizing the legend of the elusive gold mine hidden in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona. Bicknell, an editor and writer with a flair for storytelling, often blended facts with folklore in his accounts, creating a captivating narrative that drew readers into the mystery of the mine.
His articles typically described the treacherous terrain of the Superstition Mountains, the dangers faced by treasure hunters, and the various claims made by those who sought the mine. Bicknell’s writing often emphasized the drama and intrigue surrounding the mine’s supposed discovery by Jacob Waltz, the “Dutchman” for whom the mine is named, and the subsequent disappearances and deaths of those who tried to locate it after his death.
Bicknell’s stories were filled with colorful characters, dramatic encounters, and mysterious clues, contributing to the enduring allure of the Lost Dutchman Mine legend. His work not only kept the legend alive but also inspired countless adventurers and treasure hunters to search for the fabled gold, ensuring that the tale of the Lost Dutchman Mine would become a permanent fixture in American folklore.
The following article by P. C Bicknell is posted the The Saturday Review, November 17, 1894.
Mythical Mine
Story of a Lost Claim in the Superstition Mountains
‘DUTCH JACOB’S” SECRET
Phoenix People Now Hunting for the Treasure With Prospects of Success.
Saturday Reviews.
Fifty-six miles a little south of east of Phoenix, or 6ome eighteen miles from Goldfield, in the Superstition mountains, is a mythical mine that may some day prove a reality. More than thirty years ago, or in the early sixties, so the story goes, two German prospectors came to Arizona, and in the secluded spot a above mentioned they found six Mexican working a rich gold mine They were mining by the crude Spanish method, but the ore was to rich and the gold so plentiful that the Dutch prospectoss were determined to get possession of the claim. They did so by the speediest method, by killing the Mexican, dead men tell no tales,
As civilization drifted into this valley Dutch Jacob and his partner, both with plenty of gold, became familiar to the people. Later the partner disappeared, and it is generally supposed he left by the same route as did the half dozen Mexicans a few years before.
Finally the now aged Ditch Jacob moved to the vicinity of Phoenix, but he made frequent trips the Superstition mountains, going alone, and each time he brought back bountiful riches. Finally old Jacob, along in the seventies lived the life of a recluse, and was seen in Phoenix but once in a year or two. Ha a ways turned up at election time and his only mission on earth seemed to be to vote the Republican ticker; during the remainder of the time few knew he was on earth. He made his last trip to the mine in ’84. This time he brought $500 of gold in two small sacks.
He was now approaching the age of four score, and he became quite feeble. During his declining years a sympathetic Ruth ministered to the tottering Jacob, and in 90 he quit this earth. To this woman, who is now a well known married woman of Phoenix, he left his little property here. He also divulged the secret of the mine, which she tells as follows:
In a gulch in the Superstition Mountains, the location of which is described by certain landmarks, there is a two room house in the mouth of a cave, on the wide of the slope near the gulch. Just across the gulch, about 20o yards, opposite this house in the cave, is a tunnel, well covered up and concealed n the bushes. Here is the mine, the richest in the world, according to Dutch Jacob. Some distance above the tunnel on the a shaft of incline that is not so steep but one can climb down. This too, Is covered carefully, The shaft goes right down in the midst of the rich gold ledge, where it can be picked off in big flakes of almost pure gold.
After Dutch Jacob had been buried the woman took a miner with her and spent an entire summer hunting for the mine, but she was unable to find even the ruins of the house. She tried again next year, but failed, owning perhaps to changes wrought by the heavy rains that annually fall in that section.
Many had hunted for the mine even twenty years ago, and since the death of Dutch Jacob, J. E. Bark, P. C. Bicknell the journalistic prospector, and many others have made frequent trips in that locality.
A few weeks ago Mr. Bicknell accidentally stumbled onto the stone house with two rooms in the mouth of a cave. He felt as though he now had the secret but the grubstake was about played out and he returned to Phoenix. As an evidence he brought a hand-made shovel pounded out of an iron rod. This crude implement looked as though it had been used in the work of reducing ore, as it is yet covered with slag and some signs of silver. An old drill rag was also picked up in the cabin.
Bicknell has again gone, and the last week Frank Luke and Frank Kirkland armed with the full story of the mythical mine started for the Superstitions. They reached Goldfield, which is some eighteen miles from the spot, but the rough country makes the distance twenty-six miles. Here they chartered a horse and a mule and started out in search of the bidden fortune. The day was hot and the in mule lazy, so that after going thirteen miles, or half way, Kirkland weakened. His legs grew tired kicking the mule, and they feared as he grew slower they would not be able to return. Frank would not chance walking, so a council was held and they returned to Goldfield, and next day returned to Phoenix, having gone to within thirteen miles of the place and been absent four days.
The secret of the mice is still unsolved and it may remain so for years, or even forever, but one thing is certain, of all the bidden mines of Arizona there is a present the best evidence that the one operated by Dutch Jacob did exist and that it is an unusually rich claim. The old man in his dying hour made the location so plain to the woman that she never doubted him. If Bicknell does not now solve the problem the precaution taken by Dutch Jacob will ba the only reason.
References
Field Guide to the Birds of North America
The “Field Guide to the Birds of North America” was first introduced to me by my brother, who is a Field Biologist for San Bernardino County. At the time, the two of us were camping along the 395 Highway on the Eastern Sierra, He brought his copy in the hopes of seeing some new bird species. After a few days of camping, we stopped at the visitors center at Mono Lake where I purchased by copy. Since then, this book is taken on every trip I take out of the city.
My copy of the third edition features over 800 species of birds all organized by family. The description for each bird contains an illustration by sex, descriptions and distribution map along with many variations and subspecies.
The 7th edition currently contains a total of 1,023 species, which is roughly 20% more than my much older copy. The latest version contains revisions in taxonomy revised to reflect the radical new American Ornithological Society taxonomy established in 2016. The update of taxonomy is the reason for the additions, so at some point I will break down to purchase the new version.
Whenever I go on a trip, I pull out the maps that I will need to explore the area. I also look for a bird watching checklist which typically contain a list of bird known to be in the area. These lists will make it dramatically easier narrow down birds you are looking for, and help in your identification.
Bird Watching
People engage in birdwatching for a multitude of reasons, each deeply personal and rewarding I personally enjoy listening to the birds while camping:
- Appreciation of Nature: Birdwatching allows people to connect with the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of birds and their habitats.
- Relaxation and Stress Relief: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Birdwatching provides an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse oneself in the peacefulness of natural surroundings.
- Physical Activity: Birdwatching often involves walking or hiking, providing a gentle form of exercise that can improve cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
- Mental Stimulation: Identifying birds and learning about their behaviors, habitats, and calls can be mentally stimulating and intellectually rewarding.
- Community and Social Connection: Birdwatching can be a social activity, providing opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for birds and the environment.
- Conservation Awareness: Birdwatching can foster a sense of environmental stewardship by raising awareness about the importance of preserving habitats and protecting bird species and their ecosystems.
- Adventure and Exploration: Birdwatching often takes enthusiasts to new and exciting locations, encouraging exploration and a sense of adventure.
- Photography and Artistic Expression: Many birdwatchers enjoy capturing images of birds through photography or expressing their observations through various forms of artistic expression, such as drawing or painting.
Overall, birdwatching offers a myriad of benefits that cater to both physical and mental well-being while fostering a deeper connection to the natural world.
Book Summary
| Name | Field Guide to the Birds of North America |
| Author | Jonathon Alderfer |
| Publisher | National Geographic |
| Edition | 7th Edition |
| Pages | 592 Pages |
Resources
Cerro Gordo (Images of America)
High in the Inyo Mountains, between Owens Valley and Death Valley National Park, lies the ghost town of Cerro Gordo. Discovered in 1865, this silver town boomed to a population of 3,000 people in the hands of savvy entrepreneurs during the 1870s. As the silver played out and the town faded, a few hung on to the dream. By the early 1900s, Louis D. Gordon wandered up the Yellow Grade Road where freight wagons once traversed with silver and supplies and took a closer look at the zinc ore that had been tossed aside by early miners. The Fat Hill lived again, primarily as a small company town. By the last quarter of the 20th century, Jody Stewart and Mike Patterson found themselves owners of the rough and tumble camp that helped Los Angeles turn into a thriving metropolis because of silver and commercial trade. Cerro Gordo found new life, second to Bodie, as California’s best-preserved ghost town.
About the Author
Roger W. Vargo and Cecile Page Vargo are a husband-wife historian team who photograph, write about, and guide tours to historic areas. They have volunteered and worked in both Bodie and Cerro Gordo. Histories and images have been collected from public, personal, and private archives.
Book Summary
| Title | Cerro Gordo (Images of America) |
| Author | Cecile Page Vargo, Roger W. Vargo |
| Publisher | Arcadia Publishing |
| Pages | 130 Pages |
Robert Findley McLaury
Robert Findley McLaury, known as Frank McLaury (1857–1881) was a notable figure in the American Old West, primarily remembered for his involvement in the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona. Born in 1857 in the town of Belton, Texas, McLaury, whose birth name was Frank McLowery, was the youngest of four siblings. His family moved to Arizona Territory in the early 1870s, seeking new opportunities.
In Tombstone, Frank, along with his brothers Tom and an associate, Ike Clanton, became known for their involvement in various outlaw activities. The McLaury brothers were cattle ranchers and occasionally engaged in rustling, which contributed to their controversial reputation.
The most notable event in Frank McLaury’s life was the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, which occurred on October 26, 1881. This 30-second shootout between the Earp brothers (Wyatt, Virgil, and Morgan) and their ally Doc Holliday against the Clanton-McLaury faction is one of the most famous confrontations in Western history. The clash was fueled by longstanding tensions between the two groups, primarily over control of the town and its surrounding cattle interests.
During the gunfight, Frank McLaury, who was armed and prepared for confrontation, was killed alongside his brother Tom McLaury. Frank’s death, along with the broader context of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, played a significant role in shaping the legendary status of Tombstone and its associated figures.
Frank McLaury’s legacy is largely defined by this dramatic episode in Western history, contributing to the enduring mythology of the American frontier. His life and death continue to be subjects of fascination and speculation in both historical accounts and popular culture.
References