California Partnerships

California: A Biodiversity Hotspot

California is home to more species of plants and animals than any other state in the U.S.鈥攁nd also one of the highest numbers of threatened and endangered species. This interactive StoryMap offers a 鈥渇lyover鈥 of California鈥檚 birds and biodiversity, showing how coasts, deserts, rivers, and working lands are all connected.

Use this StoryMap to explore why California is recognized globally as a biodiversity hotspot, learn what makes each region unique, and discover how birds can guide smarter conservation for people and wildlife alike. Whether you鈥檙e an educator, advocate, land manager, or curious birder, this is a tool to help you see the state through birds鈥 eyes and imagine what a more resilient future could look like.

Explore the StoryMap | Scroll down to launch the interactive StoryMap. For the best experience, view it in full-screen and navigate through each chapter to:

  • Follow a flyover tour of key bird habitats across California.
  • Learn how biodiversity, climate resilience, and community well-being are intertwined.
  • See where 探花精选 California and partners are focusing our efforts.
  • Find ideas for how you can take action in your community.
     
探花精选 California Stories
FLIGHT Interns Fledge the Nest at the 探花精选 Center at Debs Park
June 16, 2026 — From planting hundreds of native plants to watching seabirds from a boat for the first time, this year鈥檚 FLIGHT interns built skills, community, and confidence at the 探花精选 Center at Debs Park.
The Magic of Seabird Colonies, and One Scientist鈥檚 Unique Way to Mitigate the Crises They Face
June 03, 2026 — A motivating conversation with Aspen Ellis, a PhD candidate researching seabirds and offshore wind
Making Waves at California Ocean Day
June 02, 2026 — 探花精选 California joins ocean leaders in Sacramento, charting a hopeful course for the future of our coast.