Did you know that Northern California is home to the smallest mountain range in the world? It lies smack in the middle of the Sacramento Valley, and it is a hotbed for unexpected creatures and unexpected stories alike. Join me with California Naturalist, Sutter Buttes guide, and educator Steve Roddy, as we explore the heart of the Buttes and discuss what makes the place so special.  How were the Buttes formed? What kinds of plants and animals live there? What was the significance of this place to California Native People? Who lives in the Buttes? Can I visit them? If it's a mountain range on land in the middle of a valley, why is it sometimes called the inland island?  Links:  Mosses and Lichens Bay Nature on Acorn Woodpeckers  Middle Mountain Interpretive Hikes  LA Times on Feral Pigs  Maidu History  Ringtail Infrared Video  FInd me on Instagram @goldenstatenaturalist TikTok @goldenstatenaturalist My website is www.goldenstatenaturalist.com My Patreon is www.patreon.com/michellefullner  The theme song is called "i dunno" by grapes. You can find the song and Creative Commons License here.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app