User:Camillelewis/sandbox

Wildlife
The canyon is home to varied wildlife, including, but not limited to, mule deer, raccoons, opossums, bobcats, coyotes, and rattlesnakes. Numerous mountain lion sightings have been reported, though attacks are rare. In addition to larger animals, the canyon is home to many smaller amphibians, reptiles and insects, some of them poisonous. Over 100 species of various migratory waterfowl and wading birds are drawn to the canyon's reservoir throughout the year. Cactus wrens, gnatcatchers, tri-colored blackbirds and rufous-crowned sparrows are some of the species that can be seen amongst the varying habitats contained in the park year-round. A variety of trees and plants can be found in the canyon, both indigenous and non-native. Rare black cottonwood trees, willows and oaks, sycamore, and varying cacti, brush and grasses can be seen from the trails. Additionally, a small eucalyptus forest (originally planted by farmer James Peters) can be found in the southern region of the canyon.

Habitats found in the canyon include freshwater marsh, coastal sage, scrub, grasslands, and the riparian sections connecting them. A small creek runs through the canyon seasonally.

The park maintains the idea that its visitors share the duty of protecting its wildlife. Therefore, any fires, or swimming in the creeks or reservoir is prohibited, as is fishing in the reservoir. The park also asks that minors stay under adult supervision ad dogs stay on leashes.

The park has garnered local popularity in part for its convenient location (the canyon is in the middle of a suburban neighborhood), as well as its cleanliness and varied trail options. The management asks that visitors see protecting the park's wildlife, as well as any construction or park improvement efforts, as a shared responsibility.

In Recent News
In January 2012, a 52-year-old bicyclist named Reynaldo Canlas fell while riding one of the trails in Peters Canyon. Canlas had suffered a heart attack and was airlifted to Western Medical Center in nearby Santa Ana. However, shortly after arriving at the hospital, Canlas passed away. The Orange County Police Department decided not to investigate his death further.