Some biologists claim that at least 100 varied species cohabitate with the tortoises. Stumble upon one of their burrows and you probably won' t see any sign of life. If really interested, settle down a few yards away and patiently wait. You may see some activity - but, then again you may not. Look up into the trees and you might be rewarded.
Woodpeckers are almost certain to be heard on their continuous quest for insects.
Colorful blue jays and red cardinals might be seen but their less-than spectacular mates keep a low profile. Listen for the jays' unmistakable scolding calls and the cardinals' chirps or lyrical mating calls. Stay until dusk and you might be treated to the eerie but exciting hoot of an owl and its's mate's response. The flashy but quick little pine warblers, the mourning doves waddling along the ground, the diversity of lizards and the incessant noise of cicadas make you know that despite a certain quiet in the pines, a whole world of wild creatures is present. Morikami is an enjoyable mix of nature and culture.