Notes about your surroundings.

Hidden Treasures--Creatures that normally live unobserved in the wild can be seen during a free slide show Friday presented by the Rancho Mission Viejo Land Conservancy. “The Animals You Never See,” with work by photographer Richard Jackson, runs from 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. in room 210 of Saddleback College’s Business/General Studies Center, 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. Park in lot 9 and walk southeast to the closest building. Those who attend will receive a certificate for a free walk in the reserve, which is near San Juan Capistrano. Information: (949) 489-9778. The event is not recommended for children under 8.

Caught on Film--Grassland as it existed 300 years ago is shown in photos taken in the Carrizo Plain natural area, southeast of San Luis Obispo, by nature photographer Peter Knapp. He will give a presentation at the general meeting of the Sierra Sage/South Orange County Group of the Sierra Club, which begins at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Unitarian Universalist Church of South Orange County, 25801 Obrero Drive, Mission Viejo. Information: (949) 661-9505 or (949) 494-3268.

Creepy Critters--Kids who love bugs, snakes and spiders can sign up for a five-week class offered by Irvine Community Services. The class, for children 2 to 5 years old, takes place from 10 to 11 a.m. on Fridays, Feb. 19 to March 19. Games, stories, crafts and visits from live creatures are included. Parent participation is required. Cost is $27. Information: (949) 724-6750.

Page From History--The long struggle to preserve the Bolsa Chica wetlands is the subject of a 720-page oral history book compiled by James A. Aldridge, a longtime member of the Amigos de Bolsa Chica. “Saving the Bolsa Chica Wetlands,” priced at $48, can be purchased by calling the Amigos office, (714) 897-7003.

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