California’s vast and varied landscape, stretching from arid deserts to alpine peaks and thousands of miles of coastline, supports unmatched biodiversity in the United States. This geographical complexity creates a mosaic of habitats, allowing a tremendous array of wildlife species to thrive. Most residents and visitors, however, primarily encounter a smaller, highly adaptable group of animals that have successfully navigated the state’s expanding urban and suburban development. These common species represent the fauna most frequently seen coexisting alongside California’s large human population.
Common Urban and Foothill Mammals
The sprawling residential areas and adjacent foothills provide habitat for several highly adaptable mammal species. The coyote (Canis latrans) is one of the most frequently observed, having successfully colonized city parks and suburbs statewide. These slender canines, recognizable by their bushy, low-slung tail and pointed ears, are primarily nocturnal but often hunt during the day, preying on rodents and readily available human food sources.
Another common nighttime visitor is the raccoon (Procyon lotor), easily identified by its black mask and ringed tail. Raccoons possess remarkable dexterity for opening garbage bins and pet food containers. Similarly, the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) is a frequent sight, known for its small size and the potent, defensive spray it releases. Both species are omnivorous and thrive where human development provides consistent access to food and shelter.
In the transition zone between suburbs and chaparral, the California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) is a diurnal fixture, often seen standing upright near its burrow systems. These grayish-brown rodents are identifiable by their mottled fur and their sharp, repetitive chirping alarm call. Larger mammals, such as the Black-tailed Deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus), regularly venture into suburban gardens. These graceful herbivores are most active at dawn and dusk, browsing on shrubs, and are recognizable by the dark stripe running down the top of their tail.
Iconic Coastal and Pelagic Species
The extensive Pacific coastline is defined by the presence of numerous pinnipeds, or fin-footed mammals, that haul out on beaches, jetties, and buoys. The California Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus) is the most recognizable, noted for its external ear flaps and its ability to rotate its rear flippers forward, allowing it to “walk” on land. Adult males develop a pronounced bump, called a sagittal crest, on their forehead and are known for their loud, distinctive barking calls.
In contrast, the Pacific Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina richardii) is an “earless” seal, lacking external ear flaps, and moves on land with a characteristic caterpillar-like flopping motion. These spotted, torpedo-shaped seals are shy and often seen resting in sheltered bays and estuaries. The much larger Northern Elephant Seal (Mirounga angustirostris) forms massive colonies at specific locations like Año Nuevo, distinguished by the large, inflatable snout of the mature male used for loud vocalizations during breeding.
Above the water, the California Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) is a common and unmistakable sight, known for its colossal bill and expandable throat pouch. This large seabird is the only pelican species that feeds by plunge-diving, dropping dramatically from heights of up to 60 feet to scoop up fish like anchovies and sardines. The coastal experience is also marked by the twice-yearly migration of the Gray Whale (Eschrichtius robustus), which travels close to shore between its Arctic feeding grounds and breeding lagoons in Baja California. The southward migration occurs from December to February, followed by the northbound journey between March and May.
Key Terrestrial Reptiles, Amphibians, and Avian Species
Beyond the mammals and marine life, a host of other common terrestrial species populate California’s diverse habitats. The California Quail (Callipepla californica), the state bird, is a plump, ground-dwelling species easily identified by the forward-curving, comma-shaped black plume on its head. These social birds are found in coveys, walking or scratching for food in chaparral and suburban areas, communicating with a distinctive, three-part call often transcribed as “Chi-ca-go.”
Soaring overhead, the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) is the most commonly observed raptor, frequently seen perched on utility poles or soaring on broad, rounded wings. Adults are named for the rufous-red color on the top of their tail, a feature often only visible when they are in flight. The California Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma californica) is another ubiquitous bird, recognized by its brilliant blue head, wings, and tail, contrasting with a gray-brown back and a white throat. This crestless jay is highly vocal and frequently found in oak woodlands and suburban backyards.
Among the reptiles, the Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis) is an abundant sight, a small, grayish-brown lizard frequently seen basking on rocks, fences, and tree trunks. Its rapid movements and the bright blue patches on the throat and belly of the males make it easily identifiable. While most snakes are secretive, the Western Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus) is the only venomous species in many regions, recognized by its triangular head and the segmented rattle at the end of its tail. Common amphibians include the Pacific Chorus Frog (Pseudacris regilla), a tiny frog known for the loud chorus of its breeding calls, often heard near water sources.
Coexisting with California Wildlife
Living in close proximity to California’s common wildlife requires adopting specific precautions to maintain a safe environment for both humans and animals. Securing all potential food sources is the most effective measure to prevent unwanted animal encounters in residential areas. This involves storing garbage in heavy, wildlife-resistant containers and only placing them out immediately before scheduled pickup.
Outdoor pet food and water should be removed, especially at night, as these attractants draw in coyotes, raccoons, and skunks. When walking on trails or in open spaces, maintaining a respectful distance from all wildlife is necessary for their safety and yours. If a coyote or similar animal approaches, making yourself appear large, making loud noises, and throwing small objects toward the ground can help reinforce a natural fear of humans. Never attempt to feed any wild animal, as this habituates them to humans and is detrimental to their long-term health.