California’s relatively intact grasslands are reservoirs of biodiversity. Grassland birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, pollinators and other animals depend on the resources these plants and spaces provide.
- Native grasslands support about 40% of California's total native plant species (Wigand 2007:55).
- Over 300 species of native grasses are found in California. Grasses are an integral part of diverse habitats, ranging from cool, wet forests to hot, dry deserts.
- An astounding 90% of California's rare and endangered plant species reside in grasslands (Skinner & Pavlik, 1994).
- Currently 73 grassland-associated species are listed by the state & federal Endangered Species Acts: 14 vertebrates and 59 plants, and 14 invertebrates, including 6 butterfly species.This count does not include unlisted native pollinators and other plants and animals experiencing sharp declines.