We've saved the east side! Let's save the rest.
A Critical Habitat and Biodiversity Hotspot
West Coyote Hills is a biodiversity hotspot threatened with destruction. It is home to 15 sensitive, rare, and endangered species and is home to some of the last remaining Coastal Sage Scrub plant community found only in California and northern Baja. More than 90% of the world's Coastal Sage Scrub has been lost to urbanization .
This plant community supports the unique birds and wildlife that migrate here or make their homes here. In fact, West Coyote Hills is a critical habitat, as designated by US Fish and Wildlife, with 50-60 pairs of endangered CA gnatcatchers and other species of concern such as California Quail – our state bird, and the Coastal Cactus Wren.
What is a coastal sage scrub habitat?
This is a plant community found in the coastal regions of California and Baja California. More than 90% of this habitat has been destroyed due to urbanization. This habitat is critical for many threatened and endangered animals, like the ones that live at West Coyote Hills.
More on Coastal Sage Scrub
Critical stepping stone for the Pacific Flyway
West Coyote Hills is a major north-south flyway for migratory birds, extending from Alaska to Patagonia. The Pacific Flyway is one of four major North American migration routes for birds and extends from Alaska and Canada, through California, to Mexico and South America. Every year, migratory birds travel in Spring to Fall for food source, breeding or overwinter sites.
California Gnatcatcher
West Coyote Hills is home to about 56 pairs of this endangered bird, making it the largest population of this bird in Southern California. Word for word, the story of this now saved habitat is/can be the same for West Coyote Hills!
Cactus Wren
West Coyote Hills is home to about 69 pairs of this California Species of Special Concern which is also the state bird of Arizona.
Burrowing Owl
Some believe this bird to be now extinct in Southern California. Our founder, Connie Spenger spotted a pair on the westerly side of West Coyote Hills in 2002.
Burrowing Owl of Southern California
The comedian amongst owls?
Red-tailed Hawk
Cooper's Hawk
Coyotes, more than just our mascot
Coyotes are the keystone species of West Coyote Hills which means they play a critical role in its ecosystem.
More on the coyote
Friends of Coyote Hills
PO Box 5267, Fullerton CA 92838-5267
Copyright © 2023 Friends of Coyote Hills - All Rights Reserved.
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Pledge
... to save the rest of West Coyote Hills as a park and preserve for now and future generations