ENVIRONMENT / Notes about your surroundings.

Beak Peek--Wintering birds are settled in at the Bolsa Chica wetlands and can be seen Dec. 5 during free public tours offered by the Amigos de Bolsa Chica. Groups leave every 20 minutes from 9 to 10:30 a.m., starting at the walk bridge one mile south of Warner Avenue on Pacific Coast Highway. Information on the wetlands and membership will be available, as well as displays and new merchandise in time for gift giving. (714) 897-7003.

Fir Real--Fresh-cut or artificial tree for the holidays? Paul Battaglia, president of the California Christmas Tree Assn., roots for the real thing as a smart environmental choice. Real trees are renewable and recyclable, he says. Growing trees produce oxygen and serve as filtering devices for dust and smog, and become home to birds and small animals. For every tree harvested, two or three more are planted. After the festive season, trees can be recycled into sand dune stabilizers, coastal shore fish habitats, fuel chips and bird feeders. Trees can also be processed into mulch for hiking trails and landscapes or placed into brush piles for animal habitats.

Santa Claws--The creatures will be stirring at the Santa Ana Zoo on Dec. 12 in celebration of Christmas, with storytelling, animal encounters, music and a visit from Santa. “Christmas With the Critters” runs from 2 to 4 p.m. and is included with zoo admission. Holiday gifts purchased at the zoo gift shop support education and conservation programs. Information: (714) 953-8555.

Canyon Country--Bring a picnic to dine on under the stars in rustic Bommer Canyon on Dec. 5, and enjoy holiday crafts, entertainment and a hayride. The event, sponsored by the city of Irvine Community Services Department, takes place from 4 to 7 p.m. Cost is $12 for those 4 and older; free for those younger. Information: (949) 854-8144.

* Send items for consideration to Vicky Clepper, The Times Orange County, 1375 Sunflower Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Fax: (714) 966-7711.