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
Celebrating 2025 Working Lands for Tricolored Blackbirds
December 11, 2025 — Strong farmer and agency partnerships and a new movement study made 2025 a breakthrough year for Tricolored Blackbirds and set the stage for what鈥檚 next.
From Washington to California, Volunteers Answered the Call as Concerns Rose for California Brown Pelicans
December 10, 2025 — How volunteer surveys along the west coast may be revealing changes in where California Brown Pelicans roost and feed in response to a changing climate.
BirdReturns 2025: A Remarkable Year Delivering Crucial Habitat for Birds
December 10, 2025 — A decade in, BirdReturns is scaling habitat across California鈥檚 working lands to meet a critical moment for hundreds of thousands of birds.