Back to Project Linkages

P e n i n s u l a r   R a n g e
t o
A n z a   B o r r e g o

This ecoregional connection links the coastal habitats of the Peninsular Ranges with the desert communities of Anza Borrego State Park.  The Palomar, Aguanga, Volcan, and Cuyamaca mountains of the Peninsular Ranges are dominated by mixed chaparral, redshank chaparral, montane hardwood and coniferous forests, perennial grassland and wet meadows.  While desert and succulent scrubs, juniper woodland, desert wash, and fan palm oases dominate the San Felipe Hills and Valecito Mountains of Anza Borrego.  A number of listed and sensitive species have the potential to occur in the vicinity, such as Cuyamaca larkspur, Quino checkerspot butterfly, orange-throated whiptail, least Bell’s vireo, Peninsular bighorn sheep, and a number of rare bat species.  The linkage also supports designated critical habitat for several species, including bighorn sheep, coastal California gnatcatcher, arroyo toad, and Quino checkerspot butterfly.  Some of the focal species selected for this connection include Sonoran blue butterfly, barefoot gecko, granite night lizard, mule deer, badger, Peninsular bighorn sheep, and mountain lion.