Notes about your surroundings Bird Land--Interested in...

Notes about your surroundings Bird Land--Interested in walking with the endangered California least tern? Meet at Talbert Marsh any Tuesday at 8 a.m. to learn more about this five-acre preserve that is home to the least tern and dozens of other species.

The wetlands area supports vegetation such as pickleweed, saltgrass, bulrush and cattail. It also provides important nesting habitat for Belding’s Savannah sparrow and feeding grounds for gulls, least terns and various other shorebirds and waterfowl.

The guided tour is free. Information: the Huntington State Beach at (714) 536-1454.

Nature Calls--The Orange County Natural History Assn. is seeking new members. The organization relies entirely on membership fees and private donations to fund its activities, which include running a natural history museum.

Membership includes unlimited museum admission, newsletter and special events. Upcoming events include a whale-watching tour geared toward children and teenagers, guided hikes and working with archeological digs. Many programs are free for members.

Other events include trail maintenance projects and excursions. Free hikes meet every Monday and Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Hikes begin at the corner of Ridgeview Drive and Highland Avenue in Laguna Niguel and follow the Aliso Summit Trail above Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Hikers will want to carry drinking water, wear lightweight hiking shoes and carry a light jacket.

Membership fees range from $10 for students to $1,000 for founders.

Membership and program information: (714) 487-9155.

The Orange County Natural History Assn., and natural history museum, is at the Franciscan Plaza, 31781 Camino Capistrano, Suite 205, San Juan Capistrano.