Visitors may explore the Santa Cruz Island preserve either through a naturalist-guided hike with Island Packers or, in the case of private non-commercial boaters, by obtaining a landing permit. The Nature Conservancy owns 76% of Santa Cruz Island, and manages it in close collaboration with the National Park Service, which owns the remaining 24%. Seven mammal species (three of which are bats). Eight species of reptiles and amphibians.More than 650 vascular plant species (75% of which are native).Vaccinating the rare and vulnerable island scrub-jay against West Nile virus, a disease that has yet to establish on the island but that is particularly deadly to this species.Educating visitors on the importance of protecting the island’s delicate ecology and preventing the introduction of non-native species.Ongoing native plant restoration and invasive weed management activities.Regular check-ups on the island’s radio-collared foxes to monitor their health and administer vaccinations for canine distemper-a disease easily contracted from domestic dogs illegally brought ashore by boaters.Our research, restoration and outreach efforts continue: However, managing human interaction with native plants and animals is vital to maintaining the island’s health. The restoration of Santa Cruz Island has been a resounding success and will allow thousands of visiting boaters and hikers each year to enjoy this unique landscape. Managing the Present, Protecting the Future Oak seedlings abound, now that the pigs-which feasted on oak acorns-are gone.Native plants are flourishing and are re-vegetating formerly barren hillsides.
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