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New state shrub and snake: The big berry manzanita ( Arctostaphylos glauca ) and the giant gartersnake ( Thamnophis gigas ) are now official representatives of the state of California. “Our state symbols celebrate California’s uniqueness, especially our distinctive ecosystems,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a cheeky statement announcing the news on Thursday.

More about manzanitas : The big berry manzanita is a poignant reminder of resilience amid California’s extreme weather cycles. The native shrub is highly adapted to wildfire, spreading seeds and rapidly regenerating after burning. Its complex root system helps combat erosion — especially during mudslides after a fire — and allows the shrub to thrive in dry soils.

Reptile reporting: Though snakes may make you recoil, th

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