In California chaparral habitats extend from the costal ranges into the central valley. Usually hot in the summer and mild in the winter, the chaparral often has fog-like conditions in the mornings and evenings, particularly on the western slopes which brings much needed moisture to the plants and animals, and regulates the temperature to some degree. The plants tend to be hardy and have root systems adapted to the fact that rain generally only falls here from November to May and is less than about twenty inches a year. Another wonderful adaptation is the plants' ability to withstand wildfires which are actually necessary to control periods of rampant growth. Animals also leran to conserve both their energy and their food, often looking for food in the morning or late afternoon.

The following birds and animals can be found in the chaparral regions of California:

Birds:

California Condor, Anna's Ruby Throated Humminbird, Acorn Woodpecker, Great Horned Owl, Western Scrub Jay, Northern Oriole, Red-Tailed Hawk

Animals:

Fence Lizard, Kingsnake, Bobcat, Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, Cottontail Rabbit, California Vole, Ground Squirrel, Coyote