Halloween Themed Science Hike - Irvine Regional Park 10/25

Overview: Spooky season is upon us so let's celebrate all of the creepy-crawlies and things that go bump in the night with an hike in Irvine Regional Park.

This event will be part hiking and part "ghost stories".
The hike will start while it's still a bit light, giving us the opportunity to see the diurnal animals settle down for the evening, and the nocturnal animals begin to stir. We'll pay special attention to any silhouettes in the treetops, and listening for call from owls, coyotes, frogs, and insects.

After returning to our meeting spot, we'll sit around a faux campfire and share tales of spookiness we've encountered while out hiking. Please bring a blanket or chair in case we don't have enough picnic tables. Feel free to bring refreshments, and if you brink enough to share, even better!
And if you like, please come in costume as long as it doesn't interfere with easy hiking.

I'm classifying this hike as beginner. Total distance is about 2.5 miles, with about 150 feet of elevation gain.

Here are a few of the topics we'll be learning about:

- Natural history of the area
- Lunar cycle
- Evolution of fear
- Adaptations of nocturnal animals
- Why a lot of humans are scared of the dark
- Why sounds seem different at night
- Ghost stories and hauntings of the area

I've capped attendance for this event, so, if full, please join the waitlist and I'll try to accommodate as the event gets closer.

Location: Irvine Regional Park in Orange, CA

Starting point: Parking Lot P. Look for the SoCal Sciences Hikes banner, and the guy with long hair, beard, and cowboy hat.

Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles

Duration: About 3 hours

Elevation gain: ~150 ft

Terrain: Dirt trails, rocky washes

Difficulty: Beginner

Age: 18 and older. Contact me to discuss exceptions.

Pets: No pets allowed

Recommended gear:
- Footwear suitable for dirt paths and rocky washes
- Clothing suitable for the weather
- Water
- Snacks (if desired)
- Binoculars, monocular, or spotting scope
- Journal or notebook if you're into that sort of thing
- Sun protection
- Headlamp or flashlight

Cost: This event is free, but if you enjoy your time and learn something, tips/donations are graciously accepted in person or at buymeacoffee.com/codycolborn

No Show Policy: In order to host as many people as possible, we keep track of no shows. After two no shows, you will be placed on the waitlist when signing up for a new event, and moved to the "going" list if space is available the night before the event.

Questions: If you have any questions, please message me through Meetup or text 424-244-0334.