S a n   G a b r i e l   M o u n t a i n s
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S a n   B e r n a r d i n o   M t n s .
C o n n e c t i o n

The San Andreas Rift Zone runs in a northwest to southeasterly direction through the linkage, at the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains divide, producing steep rugged topography and a complexity of microhabitats. Cajon Canyon, with its phenomenal geology, separates these ranges.  Chaparral covers the slopes, with Coast live oaks in deep canyons, giving way to valley foothill riparian, and alluvial fan sage scrub habitats.  Species distribution patterns are equally intricate, with several listed and sensitive species occurring in the vicinity. Nelson’s bighorn sheep populations have been documented in Cucamonga Canyon and in the south and middle forks of Lytle Creek, and the nearly vertical slopes around Mount San Antonio also provide habitat for this species. The linkage includes designated critical habitat for the San Bernardino kangaroo rat and supports populations of the critically endangered slender-horned spineflower.  Some of the species targeted as connectivity indicators for this linkage include mountain lion, Nelson’s bighorn sheep, dusky-footed woodrat, San Bernardino kangaroo rat, California spotted owl, and mountain quail.

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