The young Valley Oaks (Quercus lobata) stand out in the mist, near the Frog Pond at Portola Valley Ranch. These oaks began as acorns stashed by Acorn Woodpeckers in the bark of the 200-year-old heritage oak near Indian Crossing, between the road and the paved path. After the oak fell, the acorns found their way into the soil. But browsing deer stunted the youngsters for several years, until Helen and I protected them with small wire cages. Now look at them! 12/12/2023, 7:51 am.