Bird and reptile gazing events
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Fans of bird watching and reptiles can get their fill this summer with ongoing local events such as those recommended in today’s Guide section.
Thorsten Pape is pictured above, holding a black-and-white tegu, native to South America and a member of the reptile family, one of the groups that will be featured at ‘Family Fun for Nature Nuts.’ The event is part of a summer program that takes place Tuesdays at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge through July 29.
The reptile family includes red-footed tortoises, boa constrictors, tree frogs and even a Chinese water dragon. Insects -- such as the giant black African millipede -- are also lurking among their menagerie. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for picnicking; the show begins at 6:30 p.m. The price is $12 per show, $45 for the series, and more information is available at (818) 949-7980.
In the meantime, the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve is aflutter with avian wildlife, according to The Times’ Outdoors columnist Pete Thomas.
The Valley Audubon Society, one of the refuge’s many stewards, offers four-hour walks -- open to birders of all levels -- at 8 a.m. on the first Sunday of each month. More information is available by calling (661) 299-6986 or e-mailing kris.olhlenkamp@sbcglobal.net
-- Francisco Vara-Orta