Redwood National and State Parks, located in Northern California, is home to a unique and diverse ecosystem that supports a variety of biomes. The park's vast landscape includes ancient forests, coastal areas, and river valleys, showcasing a broad array of flora and fauna. Keep on reading to learn more about the biomes at Redwood National Park
Coastal Redwoods
The defining feature of Redwood National and State Parks is its coastal redwood forest biome. This biome is characterized by towering coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), which are among the tallest and oldest trees in the world. The rich understory includes ferns, shrubs, and a variety of wildflowers, providing habitat for animals such as Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, and numerous bird species.
Coastal Scrub
This biome occurs in the park’s coastal areas. It is dominated by low-growing, hardy vegetation such as shrubs, grasses, and herbs that are adapted to the windy, salt-spray conditions along the coastline. This habitat supports various birds, small mammals, and insects.
Riparian Zones
The park’s riparian zones are areas adjacent to rivers and streams. These habitats are characterized by lush vegetation, including willows, alders, and other water-loving plants. Riparian zones provide essential habitats for fish, amphibians, and many bird species, as well as other wildlife that depend on the proximity to water sources.
Mixed Evergreen Forests
In addition to the redwood forests, the park includes mixed evergreen forests biome. This biome is comprised of a variety of tree species, such as Douglas-fir, tanoak, and madrone. The diverse plant life in these forests supports a wide range of animal species, making it an important component of the park’s ecosystem.