Park Ranger Liam describes the differences between the upper and lower needles on a single coast redwood. These trees are so tall, it's like two ecosystems on a single plant!

Redwood Needles

Most visitors know Redwood National and State Parks as home to the world's tallest trees—icons that inspire visions of mist-laden primeval forests bordering crystal-clear streams. But the parks also protect vast prairies, oak woodlands, and nearly 40 miles of wild coastline, all of which support a rich mosaic of wildlife diversity and cultural traditions. Indeed, more than parks, Redwood is also designated a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. Join park rangers from the National Park Service and California State Parks as we explore this special place.

Society & Culture

Personal Journals

History

Philosophy

Places & Travel

Park Ranger Liam explains why barn swallows are especially important visitors to the parks--and just about everywhere else they're found. You should thank them (i.e., the barn swallows)!

Barn Swallows

Park Ranger Carey shares some of the more fascinating characteristics of her favorite animal in the parks—the often-maligned and under-appreciated banana slug (Ariolimax columbianus). You're gonna love 'em (but don't lick 'em—trust us...)!

Banana Slugs

Park Ranger Liam explains why fog is critical to redwoods' survival during summer, and how changing fog patterns could affect redwood forests of the future.

Fog in the Redwoods

Park Ranger Anica discusses efforts to restore the Mill Creek watershed in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park (part of Redwood National and State Parks)—a vital stronghold for threatened Pacific salmon.

Restoring a Healthy Watershed

Park Ranger Shaina discuss the largest land mammals in the parks (and largest subspecies of North American elk), Roosevelt elk. Lean about elk reproductive behavior, where to see 'em, and how to observe safely.

Redwood Needles

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