Trip report tip report for the Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve Night Hike on Saturday, October 19, 2013.

Number of participants: 10 + 4 leaders

Start time 6:30pm Temp. 76�

Finish time 9:55pm Temp 58�

Distance covered: 3 miles (1.5 miles each way on the same trail)

Moon phase Full - visible to us at 8:10pm

Common Poorwills were seen throughout the walk, but the second sighting was amazing. For the entire group to get that close to a Common Poorwill was very unusual, and quite a extraordinary experience. Western Screech-owls made us work, allowing us only one good view (for most). It was unusual to have no Great Horned Owl sightings and only one quick look at a Barn Owl by the leaders, but you never know what wildlife will be present on these nighttime adventures.

Species encountered:

Birds:

Common Poorwill - 7

Western Screech Owl - 3

Barn Owl -1

Killdeer - many calling in grassy areas near trailhead.

Mammals:

Mexican Free-tailed Bat - the many bats at the beginning of the walk were most likely this species.

Coyote - heard small group yelping

Brush Rabbit - 3

Arthropods:

Stripe-tailed Scorpion - 2