| Tujunga was
named by the 'Tongva' Native Americans and means "The Place where
Mother Nature Lives". This is perfect setting for "Quail Hollow",
the garden of Ken and Rhonda Gilliland who are the webmasters of Theodore Payne Foundation.
The native garden started almost seven years ago and it has blossomed to over 550 native species
with well over 3,000 plants. With over 30,000 sq ft of garden area,
spanning 3 residences and 3 adjoining lots,
their property resembles a small botanical garden, more than a home
garden. They have chosen a less formal, wildlife-friendly look for their
garden that attracts over 90 species of avian visitors year round, including
over a hundred daily quail and such rarities as the CT Warbler,
Least Bell's Vireo and Ashy Rufous-crowned sparrow.
Squirrels, jack rabbits, coyote and even an occasional bobcat
frequent the yard. While
not completely wheelchair accessible, much of the garden can be seen
without negotiating steps or steep paths. For the best bird
watching, the start (10am) and end (4pm) of the tour day(s) is
recommended.
A 6 1/2 minute video
of birds found at Quail Hollow
is available in
streaming Flash8 here.
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