Natural Elements of Perini Ranch

The natural elements of Perini Ranch are beautiful and characteristic of California's northern coastal foothills and mountains. Many reflect the unique history that is tied to both the volcanic nature of this land as well as the early indigenous inhabitants. Many of the animals that make up the living elements seek refuge on this land, as their habitat may be endangered in other areas. We hope you will take the time to explore and discover the treasures of Perini Ranch, but that you will also respect and help preserve this land.

	Bird watching is a great pastime at the ranch. Most common are the acorn woodpeckers that use the local pines to store their food. You may also see Coopers and Red tail hawks, wild turkeys, robins, vultures, hummingbirds, finches, many species of waterfowl, heron, owls and many others.
	A natural artesian spring is a part of the adjoining property, once the old ranch. The spring provides a cool and plush refuge even in the heat of summer. The drinking water of the ranch comes from a similar underground source that is refreshing and abundant. A short walk will take you to the spring.
	Rock collecting can be very interesting as the ranch has an abundance of Lake County diamonds (future link) and obsidian due to the volcanic nature of the land. Of course many other geologic artifacts are present as well. We simply ask that you choose no more than one specimen of each to take with you, to preserve the resource.
	Walking trails and dirt roads traverse the ranch, enabling one to see the landscape, the wildlife and the surrounding views of Clear Lake, the Red Hills and a local vineyard. The trails and small roads are easily accessible from the ranch house. We have made available a small guide that may be useful and fun to use as you explore.(future link)
	Wildflowers are abundant in the spring time including Diogenes' Lantern (pictured left), wild iris, vetch, California poppies, calla lilies, lupine, monkey flowers and many others.
	Wildlife is abundant and varied. As you see here, (look closely) the ranch has larger animals such as bobcats, deer and foxes. Other local residents include wild turkeys, jack rabbits, gray squirrels, salamanders, and during the warm season, rattle snakes. Please take caution when climbing around rocks or reaching in tight spaces.

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