Dana Point
Ecosystem Overview
The Dana Point ecosystem supports 100 documented wildlife species across 92 taxonomic genera. Located in orange county, california, this area provides critical habitat with diverse natural communities. The location hosts 21 frequently observed species and 19 occasionally documented species, creating a balanced ecosystem with both resident and visiting wildlife. This location ranks #7 for species diversity among 73 orange county County natural areas, placing it in the 90th percentile for biodiversity.
Biodiversity Highlights
Species Distribution
Regional Context
Most Common Species
Showing 20 most frequently observed species out of 100 total documented species.
Paralabrax clathratus
Sea bass
Semicossyphus pulcher
California Sheephead
Hypsypops rubicundus
garibaldi
Halichoeres semicinctus
Rock wrasse
Oxyjulis californica
Embiotoca jacksoni
Black Perch
Pisaster ochraceus
ochre stars
Paralabrax nebulifer
Sand bass
Panulirus interruptus
California Spiny Lobster
Megathura crenulata
giant keyhole limpet
Strongylocentrotus purpuratus
purple sea urchin
Chromis punctipinnis
Blacksmith
Girella nigricans
Opaleye
Mytilus californianus
common mussel
Mesocentrotus franciscanus
red sea urchin
Kelletia kelletii
Pachygrapsus crassipes
striped shore crab
Larus occidentalis
Western Gull
Pollicipes polymerus
Pisaster giganteus
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Nearby Wildlife Areas in Orange County
Discover 8 other wildlife-rich locations near Dana Point. Each offers unique biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities.
🌿 Premier Wildlife Areas (8 nearby)
Regional Wildlife Network
These nearby locations complement Dana Pointwithin Orange County's wildlife network. Species counts reflect documented observations and help identify the most biodiverse areas for your nature explorations.