Notes on your surroundings

Winter Wanderland--The variety of wildlife in the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve will be on display as the Friends of Newport Bay give a free 90-minute walking tour Saturday. In addition to observing birds, the tours include stops to discuss and view the bay’s history, geology, fossils, freshwater and saltwater marsh plants and the food chain.

Tour groups start out every 15 minutes from 9 to 10:15 a.m., beginning at the corner of Eastbluff and Backbay drives. Parking is along East Bluff.

After the tour, visitors may stay and explore on their own. Wear comfortable shoes and a hat if it’s sunny. A camera, binoculars and bird book will come in handy.

Green Giving--Searching for the right holiday gift for the environmentalist on your list? Some local groups have these suggestions:

* Order an honorary grant deed certificate from the Bolsa Chica Land Trust to help preserve the wetlands. Each is $10, plus $2 postage and handling for up to 10 certificates. Information: Nancy Harris, (714) 846-0916.

* Adopt an animal at the Santa Ana Zoo. Participants who financially support an animal such as a golden lion tamarin or a spider monkey receive invitations to zoo functions, subscription to the zoo’s bimonthly newsletter, certificate of adoption and animal fact sheet. “By donating anywhere from $25 to $1,000, adoptive parents make a positive statement about conservation and their concern for the wildlife community,” said Howard Hall, president of the Friends of Santa Ana Zoo board of directors. Information: (714) 953-8555.

* The Sierra Club, Orange County group, will discuss the latest in gift-giving ideas for the outdoor enthusiast at its monthly meeting, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at REI, 1411 S. Village Way, Santa Ana. It’s free and open to the public.