PRESERVING A CANYON LEGACY SITUATED AT THE END of winding Modjeska Canyon Road, with a canopy of imposing oak trees greeting visitors, is Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary. For 90 years, this serene ecological preserve at the foot of the chaparral-covered Santa Ana Mountains has attracted bird watchers, hikers and nature enthusiasts. Over the past 50 years, Cal State Fullerton has cared for and nurtured the 12-acre nonprofit sanctuary, preserving its legacy while supporting science and environmental education and research. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the santuary in Silverado, open for all to experience the flora and fauna native to Orange County. The late Benjamin and Dorothy May Tucker made the rural refugee their second home during the late 1920s and 1930s. The land was part of the estate of 19th-century Polish actress Helena Modjeska, for whom Modjeska Canyon is named. Enthralled with the natural world of the secluded canyon, the Tuckers became enamored with the birds, especially tiny, colorful hummingbirds. To share their
affection for hummingbirds, in 1929 the couple opened their hideaway, called Oakwood, to the community. Locals visited the bird observation porch outside their cabin overlooking Santiago Creek and watched feathered friends feed. The Tuckers and Audubon Society docents educated visitors about the animals and birds, which today includes over 98 bird species such as Anna’s hummingbirds, golden eagles and yellow warblers. Many reptile and mammal species visit or make their home here. After Dorothy’s passing in 1939, Benjamin Tucker gifted the property to the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society. In 1968, the property was deeded to CSUF and is operated under the Auxilary Services Corp. and managed by Extension and International Programs. The sanctuary features the famed bird porch, a natural history interpretive center, native plant nursery, familyfriendly trails, amphitheater, picnic areas and a koi pond. The education facility serves thousands each year, as it did in 1942
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when outdoor classes were first offered. In 1967, 38,000 people, mostly K-12 students, visited Tucker, with plans to “provide a broader range of experiences dealing with nature appreciation and conservation practices.” Today, Tucker’s outdoor education program offers students guided tours of native habitats and lessons that align with state science standards. Grants and donations support bringing busloads of underserved school children to enjoy the great outdoors. Countless volunteers help keep the sanctuary abuzz for visitors wishing to experience the beauty of nature — like the Tuckers. “The generosity of our supporters allows us to introduce nature to students at a young age,” says Marcella Gilchrist, site manager since 2007. “We hope that we inspire them to become the future caretakers of our local habitats, wildlife, and of our legacy.” DEBRA CANO RAMOS
Visit tuckerwildlife.org for Tucker’s anniversary events and activities. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON TITAN I 29