Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CALIFORNIA: ALMOST AN ISLAND
Much of California is a biological island cut off from the rest of North America by the soar-
ing peaks of the Sierra Nevada. As on other 'islands' in the world, evolution has created
unique plants and animals under these biologically isolated conditions. California ranks
first in the nation for its number of endemic plants, amphibians, reptiles, freshwater fish
and mammals. Even more impressive is the fact that 30% of all plant species, 50% of all
bird species and 50% of all mammal species in the USA can be found here.
California's Flora & Fauna
Although the staggering numbers of animals that greeted the first foreign settlers are now a
thing of the past, it's easy to see wildlife thriving in California in the right places and at the
right times of year. You're likely to spot at least a few charismatic species during your so-
journ. Unfortunately, some are but shadow populations, hovering at the edge of survival,
pushed up against California's burgeoning human population.
Peak mating season for northern elephants seals along California's coast just happens to
coincide with Valentine's Day (February 14).
Marine Mammals
Spend even one day along California's coast and you may spot pods of bottle-nosed dol-
phins and porpoises swimming and doing acrobatics in the ocean. Playful sea otters and
harbor seals typically stick closer to shore, especially around public piers and protected
bays. Since the 1989 earthquake, loudly barking sea lions have been piling up on San
Francisco's Pier 39, where delighted tourists ogle them. To see more wild pinnipeds, visit
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve near Monterey or Channel Islands National Park in
Southern California.
Once threatened by extinction, gray whales now migrate in growing numbers along
California's coast between December and April. Adult whales live up to 60 years, are
longer than a city bus and can weigh up to 40 tons, making quite a splash when they dive
below or leap out of the water. Every year they travel from summertime feeding grounds
