Carrizo Plain Natural Area

Name: Carrizo Plain Natural Area

Location: From State Highway 166, turn north onto Soda Lake Road (70 miles east of Santa Maria, or 9 miles west of Maricopa).

Comments: Covering nearly 250,000 acres (204,107 acres federally-managed), the Carrizo Plain Natural Area is managed for the benefit of its rare and endangered plants and animals, and for restoration of native ecosystems to health. The many birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles that find a home in the Carrizo Plain Natural Area fill a long list. Rare and endangered animal species include the San Joaquin kit fox, San Joaquin antelope squirrel, giant kangaroo rat and blunt-nosed leopard lizard. The California Condor has been reintroduced nearby and may someday be seen again over the plain. Wintering raptors and sandhill cranes are major birding attractions. Mountain plovers, long-billed curlews and burrowing owls also occur. More than 175 bird species have been spotted. Tule Elk and pronghorn antelope have been reintroduced into the area and can be seen at various locations on the plain.