Fauna

Harland Hand [1922-1998], inspired by the principles of fine art and rock formations in the High Sierra, designed this hillside garden with breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay.

Using concrete, curving lines and dramatic color combinations, Hand created an emotionally evocative space that houses an extraordinary plant collection.

Many animals live in or visit the garden: birds, possums, squirrels, skunks, pocket gophers, snakes. Deer surround the perimeter and look longingly at the vegetation.

El Cerrito is known for its frog population, and The Harland Hand Memorial Garden is an important breeding ground for the Pacific tree frog, a very small but vocal creature that breeds in most of the garden's 20 ponds.