Serpentine grasslands

Parks: Coyote Lake – Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, Coyote Canyon County Park, Santa Teresa County Park, Calero County Park (Rancho San Vicente)

Unlike the other grasslands in Santa Clara County, serpentine grasslands are rooted in serpentine soil. This soil is the result of serpentine rock weathering which breaks down over long periods of time. The low acidity and minimal nutrients in these soils make it difficult for plants to survive there; however, a number of native species have evolved in ways that allow them to grow in this difficult environment. These harsh conditions minimize the growth of non-native species and reduce competition for the native plants by reducing weeds. The habitats that form in serpentine grassland allows rare plants and animals, like the federally threatened Bay checkerspot butterfly, to flourish. As a result, this habitat is considered sensitive by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.