California is home to a diverse range of wildlife due to its varied ecosystems, which include coastal areas, mountains, deserts, and forests. This state hosts over 1,000 species of vertebrates, including mammals like the California condor and the sea otter, as well as numerous bird, reptile, and amphibian species. The state's unique habitats support many endemic species, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these animals and their habitats, especially as urban development and climate change pose significant threats to their survival.