Creature Feature: Native Freshwater Mussels

California’s freshwater streams are home to a surprising variety of shellfish. Clusters of bivalves nestle themselves among the small pebbles and overhangs of riverbeds, sometimes almost indiscernible from their surroundings. Though these organisms may not be in the spotlight, each one of the species plays an important role in riparian ecosystems. None are more important…

Creature Feature: Douglas Squirrel

Picture this: you’re on a hike in the mixed conifer forests around Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada. Ancient, resolute pines sway gently above you in the mountain breeze, dappling the sunlight around you. All is quiet besides the faint rustle of branches in the breeze and the crunch of needles under your boots. Suddenly,…