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# Torrey Pines Docent Society

Torrey Pines Docent Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting, and interpreting the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego, CA..

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://torreypine.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Trails are open](https://torreypine.org/2026/06/wed-closing/) - All trails are open.
- [Mindful Walks at Torrey Pines](https://torreypine.org/2026/03/mindful-walks-at-torrey-pines/) - Mindful Walks are docent-guided walks where you can slow down, breath in fresh air, use your senses, and be present. Walks are held every Sunday. This guided walk starts at Guy Fleming trailhead every Sunday at 9 - 11 am..
- [Upper Reserve Restrooms](https://torreypine.org/2015/07/upper-reserve-restrooms/) - Restrooms in the upper Reserve are closed. Only Porta-potties are available. Hand-washing water is limited. A new sewer connection should be finished in late 2026.
- [Weather link](https://torreypine.org/2025/01/weather-link/) - Click link below for TPSNR weather. https://www.wunderground.com/dashboard/pws/KCASANDI116
- [Torreyana: Click here](https://torreypine.org/2022/01/docent-newsletters/) - Click here to go to the docent newsletters, the Torreyana
- [DANGER at Flatrock](https://torreypine.org/2018/12/danger-at-flatrock-2/) - In fall 2018, there was a large bluff collapse at flat rock. Park staff have placed barricades and warn visitors not to walk around the point. We are working on getting permanent signage for the area to warn visitors of the hazards. Large rocks are still falling and potentially dangerous. CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS.

## Pages

- [Torrey Pines Docent Society](https://torreypine.org/) - Torrey Pines Docent Society Protecting the rarest pine in North America. Our Mission We are a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Our docents provide vital educational programs, trail maintenance, and conservation efforts to ensure this unique coastal wilderness thrives for future generations. Stay Connected Get the
- [Junior Rangers](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/junior-ranger/) - The Junior Ranger Program is back for the summer! Check the News & Events calendar for themes and program dates.Weekly Sign-up HERE! Subscribe to our mailing list if you want to be among the first to know about upcoming Junior Rangers programs happening at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve! Junior Ranger Activity Book Can’t join the program?
- [Docent Newsletters](https://torreypine.org/volunteering/newsletters/) - The Torreyana is a newsletter published monthly by the Torrey Pines Docent Society. (P) denotes the now discontinued Torrey Pinecone newsletter.For prospective docents: Special orientation issue Recent IssuesJuly 2026June 2026May 2026April 2026March 2026February 2026January 2026 2000 to 2025 1975 to 1999 Index 12/75-9/2002 issuesIndex (old) 1975-1995 issues
- [Docent-led Youth Program](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/docent-led-program/) - Educators, we look forward to providing your students an engaging outdoor educational experience this year! The Docent-led Youth Program (previously Children's Program) is facilitated by the Torrey Pines Docent Society, who will greet the students, provide a 20–30-minute talk on one of five available topics, and split the class into groups of 8 or fewer to
- [College Walks](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/college-classes/) - These groups hike independently under the direction of their instructors and are expected to acquaint themselves with the Reserve rules before the trip. Group size: no more than 70, split into groups of 10 or fewer on the trail. Program length: open-ended Days/Times offered: Monday-Friday, afternoons preferred to avoid conflict with the younger school groups.
- [Junior Rangers FAQ](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/junior-ranger/faq/) - What is Junior Rangers? Junior Rangers is a free, fun and educational State-run program for kids aged 7-11. Over the course of the program, kids will learn about various subjects pertaining to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, including our native mammals, plants, reptiles, insects and more, through fun activities and hikes. It's FREE! Your child(ren)
- [Visit the Reserve](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/visit-the-reserve/) - To learn about our operating hours, rules of the reserve and safety concerns, please visit the official Torrey Pines State Parks Website. Trail Information Page Official Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Brochure Free public guided walks for families and small groups are at 10 AM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Meet at the entrance
- [Visitor counts](https://torreypine.org/visitor-counts/) - TIK BLIK Lodge Guided Walks Ambassador Station Roving Weeders WannaBees
- [Contact](https://torreypine.org/contact-us/) - Have you read our FAQ? Contact Torrey Pines Docent Society Our main contact for inquiries directed to the Torrey Pines Docent Society contact@torreypine.org Contact Torrey Pines Natural State Reserve To reach the main contact for Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, kindly visit the official website at Torrey Pines Natural State Reserve.
- [TPSNR](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/) - Welcome to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve ® To see a list of our weekly events happening in the Reserve, visit our CA State Parks Calendar here. Guided Hikes | Mindful Walks | Special Events & Classes For Temporary Regulations and Guidelines currently in place, visit the CA State Parks Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- [Become a Docent](https://torreypine.org/become-a-docent/) - The Torrey Pines Docent Society Docent Society History Organized in March, 1975, Torrey Pines Docent Society is one of the oldest volunteer groups in the California State Park System. By December 1977, the group was incorporated as a non-profit organization. Every year docents provide hundreds of hours of service to thousands of visitors. Special projects
- [Group Field Trips](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/groupfieldtrips/) - Group Field Trips and Hikes – Non-school Programs Please note: Free public hikes offered on Saturdays, Sundays & holidays are not available for large groups to join in and are limited to about 10 people. Any organized group must schedule at least 45 days in advance. Please refer to the page on Special Events. Self-Guided Group
- [Mustelids & Mephitids](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/mammals/mustelids/) - Long-tailed Weasel (Mustela frenata) This curious long-bodied animal can occasionally be seen moving rapidly through the brush in search of small rodents and birds. Its yellowish-brown body and daytime activity periods make it reasonably easy to observe. It is generally unafraid of people and will sometimes sit on its rump with its body erect and
- [FAQ](https://torreypine.org/contact-us/faqs/) - Frequently Asked Questions You should be able to find answers here to most of your questions about Torrey Pines Reserve. Please check here before emailing your questions. Thank you. Click on each question to open up the answer:
- [Become a Volunteer](https://torreypine.org/volunteering/become-a-volunteer/) - The Volunteers in Parks Program requires only brief training in the Reserve rules and regulations. Volunteers assist with a variety of hands-on stewardship and support activities, including: – Removal of invasive species with the Whacky Weeders– Participation in monthly bird counts– Garden upkeep with the Natural Resources team– Assisting the Maintenance team with trail restoration, cleanups, and
- [Special Events](https://torreypine.org/contact-us/special-events/) - Groups without reservations will be asked to leave the Reserve immediately and may be cited. The Reserve limits visitors to protect natural resources and for the safety of all trail users. Wedding Ceremonies in the Reserve For any inquiries, and to obtain a Special Event Permit regarding weddings in the Reserve, contact the State Parks Special
- [Teaching Resources](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/educational-resources/) - The DVD, A Walk in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, is available on request. This 27-minute DVD provides an introduction to the plants and animals you may encounter when you visit. The DVD was created by Torrey Pines Docents. Suggested donation of $5 to cover shipping and handling may be made during your visit. Or
- [Self-Guided School Program](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/self-guided-program/) - The Self-Guided Program is a good choice for teachers that would like to lead their class around the Reserve on their own. All K-12 groups visiting the Reserve must watch our Introduction Video before hiking (sent to you after booking), both for their own safety and for the protection of the Reserve. Check out the field
- [Youth Programs](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/) - The Docent Society offers many educational programs. There are different options for group visits to Torrey Pines, available to specific groups as follows: Elementary School Grades 2-5: Docent-led School Program K-12 Schools: Self-guided School Program Non-K-12 Schools: College Program Scouts or Senior Groups For other non-profit organizations or corporations, fee-based guide nature walks are available.
- [Donate](https://torreypine.org/donate2/) - Donations to Torrey Pines Reserve The Torrey Pines Conservancy (founded in 1950 by Guy Fleming) provides opportunities for individuals, community organizations, foundations and businesses to support education and preservation at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Donate to the Torrey Pines Conservancy (formerly the Torrey Pines Association) using this link: torreypines.org Your donation is tax-deductible to the
- [Kids Art Contest](https://torreypine.org/artcontest/) - THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING!If you won, you will be contacted. Thank you!
- [Resources](https://torreypine.org/bee-monitoring-project/resources/) - Background How it Works Join the Project Monitoring Routes Step By Step Protocol Current Inventory Meet the Team | Contact Photography Tips Resources Resources for supporting native beesPrepared by Jess Mullins and Patricia Simpson "A visual guide, Native Bees of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, is available for sale in the Visitor Center. Books (guides, textbooks)The Bees
- [Bee of the Month](https://torreypine.org/bee-monitoring-project/bee-of-the-month/) - Background How it Works Join the Project Monitoring Routes Step By Step Protocol Current Inventory Meet the Team | Contact Photography Tips Bee of the Month Resources
- [Bee Monitoring Project](https://torreypine.org/bee-monitoring-project/) - Background How it Works Join the Project Monitoring Routes Step By Step Protocol Current Inventory Meet the Team | Contact Photography Tips Bee of the Month Resources Welcome to the Homepage of the Torrey Pines Bee Inventory and Monitoring Project! This is a collaborative project of UC San Diego Natural Reserves System, the Torrey Pines
- [Birds](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/birds/) - Birds at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Shown on this page are some of the birds commonly seen or heard near the Lodge. All these birds are in the park the year round. All photographs are copyrighted by Dr. Gary Grantham and others. Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) Wing spread is about four feet, and it
- [Step by Step Basic Protocol](https://torreypine.org/bee-monitoring-project/step-by-step-protocol/) - Last Updated: 01/22/2025 - revised to reflect current year and make minor changes Click here for Data Entry Cheat Sheet and here for a Tag and Flower Additions document Background How it Works Join the Project Monitoring Routes Step By Step Protocol Current Inventory Meet the Team | Contact Photography Tips Resources Thank you for
- [Interest Groups](https://torreypine.org/history2/interest-groups/) - Interest Groups formed to Assist TPSNR The Torrey Pines Association [now called the Torrey Pines Conservancy] was founded in 1950 by Guy Fleming. Its purpose was to unite people interested in the protection of the tree. The Association was, and still is, involved in conservation of the Torrey pine and in serving as watchdogs of
- [Visitor Center](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/visit-the-reserve/visitor-center/) - Visitor Center & Museum Shop The Visitor Center hours are daily 9 AM to 5 PM or PDT 4:30 PM Phone: 858-755-2063. Be sure to visit the Museum Shop, which sells a wide variety of Reserve and nature related items. Some examples are shirts, reusable water bottles, books, art items (some made by the docents),
- [Location](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/visit-the-reserve/location/) - Location & Directions 12600 North Torrey Pines Road, San Diego CA 92037 (GPS: 32.92183, -117.2497)Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve ® is located between La Jolla and Del Mar, north of the City of San Diego, California. From either direction on I-5, take the Carmel Valley Road exit and drive west for about 1.5 miles until you
- [Accessible Trail Information](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/visit-the-reserve/trails/accessibility/) - Torrey Pines State Reserve Accessible Trails The South Broken Hill Trail provides a 0.9 mile trail experience on a historical road, through coastal brush near the golf course and an overlook facing Broken Hill. Parking and restrooms in the West Parking Lot are generally accessible.. The West Parking Lot Overlook Trail provides a 0.14 mile trail experience
- [Meet Our Team](https://torreypine.org/bee-monitoring-project/meet-our-team/) - Background How it Works Join the Project Monitoring Routes Step By Step Protocol Current Inventory Meet the Team | Contact Photography Tips Resources Keng-Lou James Hung is an assistant professor at the University of Oklahoma. James has been studying the ecology and conservation of San Diego’s native bees for the last 10 years, and uses
- [Links to Other Organizations](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/links-organizations/) - TPSNR Related Links Torrey Pines Conservancy Torrey Pines Extension & Surroundings (blog) California Department of Parks & Recreation Download Torrey Pines SR Brochure (pdf file 2.4 MB) Los Peñasquitos Lagoon Foundation Flower Photos at TPSNR (Bill Brothers) Popular Nature Links San Dieguito River Park San Diego Natural History Museum San Diego Natural History Museum (searching)
- [Docent Library](https://torreypine.org/volunteering/docentlogin/docentdocs/docent-library/) - [table id=2 /]
- [Monitoring Routes](https://torreypine.org/bee-monitoring-project/monitoring-routes/) - Background How it Works Join the Project Monitoring Routes Step By Step Protocol Current Inventory Meet the Team | Contact Photography Tips Resources To view a larger, more detailed image of each trail, click on any image below and it will automatically open in a new tab. Scroll down to see the general location of
- [Volunteering](https://torreypine.org/volunteering/) - Thank you for your interest in helping out Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. We couldn't achieve the great things we do without people like you! Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers two ways to volunteer, each with different duties and training requirements. DOCENTThe docent program requires completing a comprehensive training program, focusing on the natural
- [<strong>Centennial Celebration Planned for Historic Torrey Pines Lodge</strong>](https://torreypine.org/centennial-celebration-planned-for-historic-torrey-pines-lodge/) - The 100th anniversary of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve's landmark adobe lodge, once the gateway to San Diego, will be celebrated from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8, 2023. Members of the press are invited to visit the lodge on or before the day of the celebration. Interviews are available by appointment
- [Junior Ranger Forms](https://torreypine.org/eduprograms/junior-ranger/jr-forms/) - We now require all forms to be filled out prior to attending a Junior Ranger event. You may download the forms (PDFs) here. Use your preferred app to fill out and sign the forms and return them to us via email to juniorrangers@torreypine.org Thank you! FORMS Waiver Release and Emergency Contact Visual Media Consent Form
- [Bee Photography Tips](https://torreypine.org/bee-monitoring-project/bee-photography-tips/) - Background How it Works Join the Project Monitoring Routes Step By Step Protocol Current Inventory Meet the Team | Contact Photography Tips Resources Taking Bee Pictures Helpful Hints by Tom Barnes Above all, don’t forget to have fun! Searching for bees in their natural habitat is enjoyable and rewarding, so don’t let the inevitable missed
- [Bird Surveys](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/birds/birdsurveys/) - 2022 November 2022October 2022September 2022August 2022July 2022June 2022May 2022April 2022March 2022February 2022January 2022 2010-2021 2005-2009 To see this data displayed visually, visit this link here to view an interactive graph (not updated since 2020).
- [History of the Reserve](https://torreypine.org/history2/) - Unless stated otherwise, this History Section of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve ® was written by Judy Schulman, TPDS Docent. On this page, she first explored how the Torrey pine was named. Naming of the Torrey Pine Because groves of trees were not common along the Southern California coast, early Spanish explorers (1500-1700 AD) referred
- [Public Walks (free)](https://torreypine.org/public-walks-free/) - The Torrey Pines Docent Society provides free nature walks on weekends and holidays at 10 AM. The subject matter and trails walked are matched to the visitor's preferences. Learn about Ellen Browning Scripps, famous Southern California philanthropist and the first caretaker of Torrey Pines Park, Guy Fleming. During gray whale season (mid-Dec to April) learn
- [Mindful Walks in Nature](https://torreypine.org/mindful-walks-in-nature/) - Walks happen every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month. The 2-hour-long walks start at the Lodge (Visitor Center) at 8 am.
- [Trails](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/visit-the-reserve/trails/) - Please check the Park Updates postings on the main page on trail accessibility. Trails, particularly the steeper Broken Hill, Razor Point, and Beach Trails, are generally closed in the event of rain to prevent soil erosion. The steps at the Parry Grove Trail can be slippery and dangerous. The closure time varies, depending on the amount
- [DANGER NEAR BEACH CLIFFS](https://torreypine.org/danger-at-flatrock/)
- [Lagoon Birds](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/los-penasquitos-lagoon/lagoon-birds/) - The majority of water birds which have been recorded from Los Peñasquitos Estuary are migratory waterfowl and shorebirds that rest and feed in the lagoon during their flight in fall and on their return in spring to their northern breeding grounds. The shorebirds and waders frequently may be observed probing the mudflats for worms, clams
- [Insects and Spiders](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/) - Unless stated otherwise, all photos and text in this Insects & Spiders section were by Don McIntireThe five plant communities in the Reserve support many diverse species of insects, spiders, and other arthropods, but given the small size of most they are easy to overlook. However, observant visitors who check the trails and trail-side vegetation
- [Spittle Bug](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/samples/spittle-bug/) - Adult spittle bugs exhibit a specialized morphology, having two bullae, or false eyes at the caudal end of the wings which could confuse potential predators as to which way they are facing. Though, it might also just be an inherited trait, and simply a relict leftover from larger and earlier species. -Don McIntire Spittle bugs
- [Shore Birds](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/birds/shore-birds/) - [wowslider id="25"] All photos © Herb Knüfken
- [Plant Gallery Captions](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/plant-gallery-captions/) - The captions to the plant gallery are arranged by alphabetical order of the common names. Hank Nicol contributed the original descriptions. Black Sage (Salvia mellifera), a 3 to 6 foot plant, is a member of the Mint family and blooms from March to June. Its light blue trumpet-like flowers are arranged in 3 to 9
- [Plant Gallery](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/plants_sampling/) - Just a handful of sample images of the plants in the Reserve. The captions of these flowers will pop out into its own page or tab. Sorry, Show Slideshow not working. [nggallery id=10]
- [What's that Light](https://torreypine.org/whats-that-light/) - What's That Light? One of the more common complaints in the summer time at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is the parking. When the South lot fills up, we close the entrance and visitors need to head to North Beach for parking. There is now a flashing light on the top of the kiosk to
- [Why No Drones?](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/visit-the-reserve/protect-torrey-pines-reserve/drones/) - Why are drones not allowed in the Reserve? Thank you for your question.Remote control craft of all types are banned from the Reserve. We have such a wide reaching ban because of the protected nature of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. As you may know, Torrey Pines SNR is one of only 16 Natural Reserves
- [Protect Torrey Pines Reserve](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/visit-the-reserve/protect-torrey-pines-reserve/) - Be a Good Citizen and Protect the Beauty of the Reserve While the scenery is stunningly beautiful, the ecosystem at the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is extremely fragile. The climate is essentially semi-arid (or you can say semi-desert with an occasional ocean breeze). This fragile environment is the home of our nation's rarest pine tree –
- [Site Map](https://torreypine.org/contact-us/about-us/site-map/) - XML sitemap
- [Explore the Reserve](https://torreypine.org/home-2-2/visit-the-reserve/explore-the-reserve/) - The Torrey Pines Association, which works closely with the State Park and the Docent Society, has produced a series of very valuable videos. Here are the synopses of a handful of examples excerpted from their video page, and most of them are available in the Visitor Center Media Room: Playing by the Rules. Torrey Pines State
- [About Us](https://torreypine.org/contact-us/about-us/) - This site is maintained by the Torrey Pines Docent Society volunteer association. Our mission is to help preserve and protect this precious wilderness area, surrounded by urban development, but located within the San Diego city limits. The Society serves the public, answering visitor's questions and leading nature walks. The Museum Shop in the Visitor Center
- [Beetles Examples](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/beetles/beetles-examples/) - Text and pictures of these examples by Don McIntire Anobiid beetle (Trichodesma cristata) Adult: 5-6 mm Order Coleoptera/ Family Anobiidae – Death-watch beetles The larvae of Trichodesma spp. feed in dry dead wood and have also been found to invade houses and other structures, in some cases, causing considerable damage to timbers. This species was
- [Beetles](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/beetles/) - What an interesting group of creatures are the beetles! Many beetle (order Coleoptera) species find their homes and make their living in the varied habitats of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve - some at the beach, some in the marshlands, some in the sands or plants of the Coastal Sage Scrub, others in the Torrey
- [Hymenoptera](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/hymenop/) - Text and pictures by Don McIntire When we think of the Hymenoptera - Ants, Bees, Wasps and Sawflies, we think of the great role they play in the pollination of plants. But that's not the whole story - Hymenoptera have reached a pinnacle in their behavioral response to the pressures of defense, feeding, nesting and reproduction.
- [Other Insects](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/insects/) - A few more insects examples of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Some other insects seen are bumblebees, dragonflies, grasshoppers and various plant bugs and beetles. If visitors are at the right places at the right times, they may see special insect activity. For example, in the spring along the bluff part of the Guy Fleming
- [Coastal Strand](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/coastal-strand/) - The sandy beaches and sand dunes of the coastal strand plant community encounter the edge of the sea. This arrangement creates a harsh environment for plant growth and survival because of persistent winds laden with salt and sand. The forever shifting sands with their poor water-holding ability and low fertility also stress plants. The few
- [Coastal Sage Scrub](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/coastal-sage-scrub/) - Photo by Stephen Bowers Coastal Prickly Pear (Opuntia littoralis) The coastal strip of San Diego has a long growing season resulting from its maritime influences and Mediterranean climate of mild wet winters and warm dry summers. The temperature ranges from a January minimum of 45 °F to an August maximum of 80 °F, with a
- [Spiders](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/spiders/) - Some Common Spiders in the Reserve Silver Argiope Spider (Argiope argentata) In coastal Southern California this large orb weaver spider favors the prickly pear cactus for its web location. Most years there are numerous occupied webs in the Reserve. This spider sits near the center of its web, upside down, almost always on the side
- [Moths](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/diptera/) - Text and pictures by Don McIntire White-lined Sphinx (Hyles lineata) Adult: Wingspan – 70-80 mm Order Lepidoptera/ Family Sphingidae – Sphinx Moths The White-lined Sphinx is common throughout San Diego County from the coast to the desert. These beautiful moths are a delight to see as they hover about flowers like hummingbirds from spring to
- [Erosion](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/erosion/) - Any land above sea level is being eroded by physical, chemical, and biological processes. Soils creep slowly downhill and sometimes slide rapidly. A good example of a slide in soil is just off the road near the entrance to the Reserve. Running water is the most important erosion agent in the Reserve. After a winter
- [Faults](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/faults/) - Faults crossing the Reserve are most easily seen in the beach cliffs and in the Torrey Pines grade on old Route 101. The Carmel Valley Fault hits the beach about 500 yards south of Flat Rock. The Delmar Formation dips below the sand at about 100 yards south of Flat Rock but is raised up
- [Fossils](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/fossils/) - Most of the fossils in the Reserve are found in the Delmar Formation at the bottom of Fossil log on the beach cliffs. The oyster beds are the most obvious. The siltstone layers have other shells and casts of tubes made by burrowing animals. Fossil logs show as holes in the rock with carbon in
- [Sandy Shore Biota](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/seashore-biota/) - Plants and Animals of Sandy beaches Two sand fleas are found on our beach: one is the light colored Large Beach Hopper and the other is the grayish or brownish Small Beach Hopper. The former resides deep in the sand during the day, and the latter hides in clumps of rotting seaweed. Clams present in
- [Rocky Shore Biota](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/rocky-shore-biota/) - Plants and Animals in Rocky Areas Splash Zone: Mostly rock is visible with a few animals visible here. The Rock Louse, a gray-green bug-like animal, lives here and cannot tolerate being submerged. A small dirty-gray snail, the Periwinkle, is diagnostic of this zone and is plentiful on top of Flat Rock. Also present is the
- [Marine Mammals](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/marine-mammals/) - Whales, Dolphins, Seals, and Sealions Information taken from "Vertebrates of Torrey Pines Reserve" by D. Hunsaker There are several species of marine mammals which can be observed in the coastal area and out to sea. Triangular fins above the surface do not always mean a shark, so keep a close eye for groups of porpoises
- [Lagoon Plants](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/los-penasquitos-lagoon/lagoon-plants/) - Figure 2. Salt Marsh plants At first glance, the plant life of the Torrey Pines Lagoon appears to be unexciting. The salt marsh plants are almost all low growing and lacking in brightly colored flowers. These drab looking plants, however, merit far greater attention than they normally receive because they exhibit some beautiful examples of
- [Lagoon Mammals](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/los-penasquitos-lagoon/lagoon-mammals/) - Relatively little is known about the mammals that frequent the lagoon area since most of them are nocturnal and secretive in their movements. It is also doubtful whether any of the observed mammals are entirely dependent on the salt marsh for their existence. Most of them appear to live in the grassland, brush and dry
- [Lagoon Invertebrates](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/los-penasquitos-lagoon/lagoon-invertebrates/) - Of the invertebrates occurring in the lagoon, the more common and interesting ones are illustrated in Figure 4. The Bay Mussel, which attains a length of 4 inches, is wedge shaped and blue black. It is found attached by long fibrous threads to the pilings of the railroad bridge and to the rip rap near
- [Lagoon Fishes](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/los-penasquitos-lagoon/lagoon-fishes/) - At least 15 kinds of fish have been found in the shallow pools and channels of the lagoon. The more common species are described below. The California Killifish is a small olive green fish with a flattened head. It grows to 5 inches in length and may be very abundant, particularly in shallow waters. It
- [Lagoon Conservation](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/los-penasquitos-lagoon/lagoon-conservation/) - Conservation of the Lagoon and Marsh The flora and fauna of Los Peñasquitos Lagoon and salt marsh obviously form a very different ecological unit from that of the upland portions of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. At Present this flora and fauna is not as rare as that associated with the unique Torrey Pine
- [Lagoon Bibliography](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/los-penasquitos-lagoon/lagoon-bibliography/) - Los Peñasquitos Lagoon Bibliography An Introduction "Los Peñasquitos Marsh Natural Preserve and Lagoon" from Torrey Pines State Reserve; Edited by Carl L. Hubbs, Thomas W. Whitaker, and Freda M. H. Reid; Published by The Torrey Pines Association, Third Edition 1991. More details, including species lists for birds, fish, plants and invertebrates The Physical, Chemical and
- [Flat Rock](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/flat-rock/) - By Judy Schulman; excerpted from Torreyana, September 2009 Located just south of the foot of the Beach Trail is a freestanding Delmar Formation structure called Flat Rock. It has also been referred to as Indian Bath Tub Rock. At its top, there is an approximately 5’ by 6’ foot hole that at one time went
- [Search Site -GCE](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/search_gcse/) - WP Google Search (site & docent newsletters)
- [Snakes](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/reptiles-amphibians/snakes/) - While 18 species have been reported in the Reserve, snakes are rarely seen by visitors (many snakes are mainly nocturnal). The four species that are most likely to be seen are the southern Pacific rattlesnake, gopher snake, kingsnake, and striped racer. The latter two are relatively easy to identify: the kingsnake is black with (usually)
- [Marine Terraces](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/marine-terraces/) - We all live on a giant staircase in coastal Southern California. The land has been rising for over a million years as it moves northwest along the San Andreas fault system. The ocean has meanwhile risen and fallen as the amount of water frozen in our polar regions during ice ages changes. The motion is
- [Skinks](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/reptiles-amphibians/skinks/) - Western Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus) Often heard rustling among dead leaves; 2.5 - 3..25"; body covered with smooth, shiny scales with rounded margins; tip of tail dull blue or slatey; glossy and slim-bodied. Next topic: Snakes
- [Rock Formations](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/rock-formations/) - Rocks at the Reserve All of the rock layers at Torrey Pines are sedimentary, made up of pieces of older rocks. The layers are divided into formations that are different enough from each other to be told apart and are big enough to be seen on a geologic map. Starting with the oldest, they are
- [Lindavista Formation](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/rock-formations/lindavista-formation/) - The Lindavista Formation is the hard red rock on top of the flat areas in the Reserve. It is green dotted on the geology map. It resists erosion more than the Torrey Sandstone under it so it acts as a cap rock, protecting the softer rock. Red Butte is a small remaining piece of the
- [Bay Point Formation](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/rock-formations/bay-point-formation/) - The Bay Point Formation is made of poorly cemented, light brown sandstone. It is light brown on the geology map. Part of it, deposited in the ocean, has layers of shells up to 100 feet above present ocean level. The layers above 100 feet have no shells so are probably material washed down slopes by
- [Carnivores](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/mammals/carnivores/) - Bobcat (Felis rufus) Bobcats are not common in the Reserve but certainly there are a few resident cats. The tracks are distinctive because the cat's claws are retracted and they do not leave claw marks in the dirt or mud. They are smaller than most people think, usually less than 15 pounds and about 30
- [Delmar Formation](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/rock-formations/delmar-formation/) - The Delmar Formation is exposed only at the base of the sea cliffs from just south of the main reserve entrance to just south of Flat Rock. Flat Rock is a sea stack remaining after wave erosion of the Delmar Formation. The Delmar is mostly a greenish yellow mudstone and siltstone (like sandstone but with
- [Torrey Sandstone](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/rock-formations/torrey-sandstone/) - The Torrey Sandstone crops out near the top of the sea cliffs and at many other locations in the reserve, for instance on the Fleming Trail, the cliffs by the main Reserve road, and in Canyon of the Swifts. The “type section” where the rock was first described is on the Torrey Pines grade which
- [Nature Center](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/) - Under this section are material on the natural sciences of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve ®. Birds, Monthly Bird SurveyGeologyInsects & SpidersMammalsPlantsRemoved for now: TPSNR Plants TutorialReptiles & AmphibiansSeashore
- [Lizards](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/reptiles-amphibians/lizards/) - The species in order of decreasing abundance (U C San Diego reptile survey) are Western fence lizard, orange-throated whiptail, side-blotched lizard, Southern alligator lizard, Western skink, coast horned lizard, coastal Western whiptail, and Calif. legless lizard. The populations of the latter four are so small that they are rarely seen. In contrast to the survey
- [Amphibians](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/reptiles-amphibians/amphibians/) - The most commonly observed species is the slender salamander (Batrachoseps major). These have been seen in pitfall traps at the Reserve:Arboreal salamander (Aneides lugibris)Pacific tree frog (Pseudacris regilla) Next topic: Lizards
- [Torrey Pine Woodland](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/torrey-pine-woodland/) - The Torrey pine (Pinus torreyana) is the most restricted and rarest pine in North America. It grows in the Torrey pine woodland or Pacific coniferous forest. This pine is probably the remnant of an ancient coastal forest which has been reduced during the drying period of the last ten thousand years to the sandy soils
- [Salt Marsh](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/salt-marsh/) - The coastal strip of San Diego has a long growing season resulting from its maritime influences and Mediterranean climate of mild wet winters and warm dry summers. The temperature ranges from a January minimum of 45 °F to an August maximum of 80 °F, with a yearly average of 62 °F. The majority of rainfall
- [Cochineal](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/samples/cochineal/) - The cochineal scale insect belongs to the order Homoptera, which includes cicadas, leaf hoppers, aphids, and scale insects (so called because the females live under scale-like coverings on plants). The cochineal lives on prickly pear and similar cacti in the southern part of the US and south into Central and South America. Area species include
- [Harlequin Bug](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/samples/harlequin-bug/) - The Harlequin Bug (also called Cabbage Bug) is found throughout most of the US In agricultural areas. It is in the Order Hemiptera or True Bugs. It feeds on the juices of cruciferous plants such as cabbage and on other plants such as beans and grapes. In our area it is found on members of the
- [Harvester Ant](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/samples/harvester-ant/) - California Harvester Ant (Pogonomyrmex californicus) Order: Hymenoptera; Subfamily: Myrmicinae Common throughout California, this ant is usually pale reddish color, but some workers in Southern California are black and reddish. Workers are about 1/4" in length. This species has a large head with long hairs on its chin that aid in removing soil during excavation in
- [Oak Gall Wasp](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/samples/oak-gall-wasp/) - Order Hymenoptera/ Family Cynipidae – Gall Wasps Oak Gall, Andricus californicus, and Ozognathus cornutus Adult: 4-5 mm This little California Oak Gall Wasp (Andricus californicus) is probably among the most widespread of the micro-hymenoptera, specializing in laying its eggs within the young twigs of various oaks which causes the growth of the familiar galls often referred
- [Park Maintenance History](https://torreypine.org/history2/torrey-pine/park-maintenance-history/) - Due to the extended draught and the bark beetle, many trees were removed for either being a reservoir of live beetles or a safety hazard. This attachment is a tree removal press release from December 2014: TP-RLS_TorreyPines-Removal-12-08-14
- [An Overview of the Reserve](https://torreypine.org/history2/overview/) - By Marty Bressler, Torrey Pines Docent Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is an unusual place and one that offers a great diversity of things to see. It has been known as an unusual place for a long time. Spanish sailors in the 1500's saw trees growing on a high bluff and marked it on their
- [Guy Fleming](https://torreypine.org/history2/protecting-pines/guy-fleming/) - From Notes from the Naturalist by Hank NicholTorrey Pines State Reserve, 1994 I try very hard to get people to hike the Guy Fleming Trail. I tell them how easy a walk it is. I tell them it has great views of the ocean. Ten minutes later I see them out on the Beach Trail.
- [The Torrey Pine](https://torreypine.org/history2/torrey-pine/) - From Nature Notes by Hank Nichol Torrey pine trees are the rarest native pines in the United States. If you take the Torrey pine growing in one small grove on Santa Rosa Island as being distinct, that tree could possibly be the rarest pine of all. The Torrey pine is two trees. The subspecies growing
- [Charles C. Parry](https://torreypine.org/history2/charles-c-parry/) - The Namesake of the Parry Grove From Notes from the Naturalist by Hank Nichol Charles Christopher Parry was born in Glouchester, England in 1823, but he grew up in upstate New York. He attended the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. Medical students of the 19th century studied botany because doctors still
- [Rodents](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/mammals/rodents/) - California Ground Squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) This is the most common mammal in the Reserve and can be seen feeding near the mouth of its burrows. It is diurnal and leaves well-marked trails where it lives. It can be seen both in the upland and lowland areas, but prefers dry rocky soil to live in. It
- [Rabbits](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/mammals/rabbits/) - Audubon Cottontail (Sylvilagus auduboni) This is one of the most common mammals that will be seen at Torrey Pines. It prefers to live in rather open brush and can be seen darting from bush to bush when it is surprised by another animal or person. Its small, fur-lined nest built on open ground can sometimes
- [Marsupials](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/mammals/marsupials/) - Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana) The opossum is an introduced species which has done very well in San Diego County and is now considered to be a permanent resident. It was first introduced in 1890 by a 'possum lover in Los Angeles and has subsequently spread from Canada to Baja California. Breeding takes place in January
- [Bats](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/mammals/bats/) - The bats of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve are rather rare because the wings are highly vascularized, and the low temperatures of the air lower the body temperature. The wing membranes are leathery and are spread between the third, fourth, and fifth digits, the forearm, the upper arm, and the hind leg. The thumb remains
- [Chaparral](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/chaparral/) - Photo by Rick Halsey The chaparral plant community normally inhabits the mesas and mountain slopes of the interior but also intermingles with the coastal sage scrub community along the coast, particularly on mesas and north-facing slopes where moisture is more plentiful. This community is composed of mainly sclerophyllous (meaning “hard-leaved” in Greek) shrubs with
- [Mammals](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/mammals/) - Mammals of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve The material in the Mammals section has been selected from "Vertebrates of Torrey Pines Reserve," by D. Hunsaker. The two basic types of land mammals are the predators and the prey species, and neither of these two likes to be around humans. As a result, although there are
- [Insectivora](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/mammals/insectivora/) - Ornate Shrew (Sorex ornatus) This shrew is distributed along the southwestern portion of the state and lives in the grassy areas in the lower part of the Reserve. They are about the size of a house mouse or a little smaller with very small eyes and very quick nervous movements. They are carnivorous and are
- [Plant List](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/plant-list/) - This list of plants found within the Reserve was compiled by Marty Blake Jacobson from previous lists with additional information, 2010.Key to the table is appended at the bottom of this page. ___Key The scientific names of species, with the few exceptions noted, appear in the Jepson Manual: The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California,
- [Yucca Moth](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/samples/yucca-moth/) - The yucca moth is very important in the life cycle of the yucca plant. As in other plants, the stigma is the part of the flower which receives the pollen. In the yuccas it is way down at the bottom of a long, hollow tube. A bee can't get to it. Neither can a hummingbird.
- [Common Insects](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/samples/) - Insects Often Seen in the Reserve There are many, many insects that we commonly observe in the Reserve. In this section (please use the bullet items below), we provide a few selected examples that guided interpretative walks often would cover. These insects include: CicadaCochinealHarlequin BugHarvester AntOak Gall WaspSpittle BugYucca Moth Next topic: Beetles
- [Geology](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/) - Geology of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve TP Geology Brochure click for 2 page version TP Geology Brochure click for large text 4 page version This Geology section, including all the following pages, was written by Don Grine, Geophysicist Emeritus A geology walk with GPS coordinates The Big Picture: Time, Plates, and Sea level Although
- [Los Penasquitos Lagoon](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/los-penasquitos-lagoon/) - This material on the Los Peñasquitos Lagoon was taken from the report, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, edited by Carl L. Hubbs, Thomas W. Whitaker, and Freda M. H. Reid, and published by The Torrey Pines Association The Physical Environment The lagoon marsh complex constitutes the northern part of the Reserve. The marsh is now carefully
- [Seashore and Ocean](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/seashore/) - Unless stated otherwise, the material in this Seashore and Ocean section was taken from "Seashore Life at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve" by Carol and Peter Lucic Climate Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is located in an area which lies closer to the equator than to the north pole. Because of this, our waters are
- [Reptiles and Amphibians](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/reptiles-amphibians/) - Reptiles and Amphibians of Torrey Pines While eight species of lizards and at least eight species of snakes occur in the Reserve, visitors will usually see only two or three species of lizards and rarely a snake. However, it is not uncommon for first-time visitors to report sightings of rarely observed species, so the recommendation
- [Plants](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/plants/) - Plants At Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve This Plants & Plant Communities section was written by William Brothers and Rick Halsey Climatic Conditions The coastal strip of San Diego has a long growing season resulting from its maritime influences and Mediterranean climate of mild wet winters and warm dry summers. The temperature ranges from a
- [Protecting the Torrey Pine](https://torreypine.org/history2/protecting-pines/) - In 1883, Parry re-visited the area. Surprised at the lack of protection for the trees, he wrote a historical and scientific account of the pine emphasizing the need to protect the tree from extermination. This was presented to the San Diego Society of Natural History. The first source of protection came in 1885 from the
- [Native Americans](https://torreypine.org/history2/native-americans/) - Long before Europeans arrived, the Torrey Pines area was home to the Kumeyaay. Their lands extended from the Pacific Ocean south to what is now Ensenada, Mexico, east to the sand dunes of the Colorado River in the Imperial Valley, and north through the Warner Springs Valley, to what is now Oceanside and Highway 78.
- [Park Expansion](https://torreypine.org/history2/park-expansion/) - Expansion of the Park In 1924, the city council added other pueblo lands to the park. This addition was the result of a request for expansion by the City Park Commission and interested civic groups. The park now included almost 1,000 acres of cliffs, canyons, mesas, and beach. Between 1928 and 1930, the League To
- [The Lodge](https://torreypine.org/history2/lodge/) - Torrey Pines Lodge In 1922, Ellen Browning Scripps financed the construction of the Torrey Pines Lodge. The architects were Richard Requa and Herbert Lewis Jackson. They applied modern methods to the use of adobe bricks. Requa and Jackson did the original work for the Santa Fe Land Company, a subsidiary of a well-known railroad. They
- [Cicada](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/insects-spiders/samples/cicada-2/) - (Order Homoptera/ Family Cicadidae)Adult: Body; 24 mmWingspan; 55 mm These large insects make the familiar shrill whine of summer days. It suddenly begins with one and then many, like the hum of a power line. The high-pitched sound is produced by the adult male cicada in a pair of chambers, called tymbals located dorso-laterally on
- [Cliffs](https://torreypine.org/nature-center/geology/cliffs/) - Beach cliffs Spectacular cliffs are an important part of the scenery at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The land must descend somehow from the 100 yard altitude at the lodge to sea level at the beach. The view of the Reserve from Del Mar shows a gradual steepening of the slope to the beach to

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