Staff of the Kern River Preserve secured another 105 acres on January 31, 2006. The Alexander Ranch property, famous for its nesting Vermilion Flycatchers, is now owned by Audubon.
This property includes excellent riparian and wetland habitat. Federally Endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatchers as well as many other sensitive species have been documented to nest on the property. The property has a border common with the current Kern River Preserve and by preserving it we will help protect the preserve from rural encroachment. Looking west from the Fay Ranch Road bridge the preserve now owns 1/4 mile more of river frontage.
Even more special, there is a beautiful pond that has at least three southwestern pond turtles living in it. The population of this shy turtle continues to decline so this adds an important sanctuary for these ancient creatures.