Animals:
* Mammals:
* Deer: Mule deer and black-tailed deer are common in the valley.
* Coyote: Coyotes are highly adaptable and thrive in both urban and rural environments.
* Ground squirrels: California ground squirrels are a familiar sight, especially in parks and open areas.
* Rabbits: Black-tailed jackrabbits and cottontail rabbits are prevalent throughout the valley.
* Foxes: Gray foxes and kit foxes are found in the Central Valley.
* Raccoons: Raccoons are adaptable and are often seen in urban areas.
* Skunks: Striped skunks and spotted skunks are common in the valley.
* Badgers: American badgers are found in the Central Valley.
* Birds:
* California Quail: These small, plump birds are a common sight in grasslands and shrublands.
* Red-tailed Hawk: A powerful predator, the red-tailed hawk is often seen soaring overhead.
* Western Kingbird: A common bird in open areas, the western kingbird perches on wires and fences.
* House Finch: This introduced species is now one of the most common birds in the Central Valley.
* Mourning Dove: A common bird in urban areas, the mourning dove is known for its cooing call.
* Reptiles:
* Western Fence Lizard: A common lizard found in gardens and other areas with vegetation.
* Western Rattlesnake: One of the most venomous snakes in the Central Valley, the western rattlesnake should be avoided.
* Gopher Snake: A non-venomous snake that preys on rodents.
* Amphibians:
* California Red-legged Frog: This frog is listed as threatened and is found in wetlands and streams.
* Bullfrog: An introduced species that is now common in the Central Valley.
* Western Toad: This toad is often found in gardens and near water sources.
Plants:
* Grasses:
* Wheat: A major agricultural crop grown in the Central Valley.
* Barley: Another major grain crop grown in the valley.
* Rice: A major crop grown in flooded fields in the valley.
* Trees:
* Valley Oak: A native oak tree that is a symbol of the Central Valley.
* Cottonwood: A common tree found along rivers and streams.
* Sycamore: A large tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall.
* Blue Oak: A drought-tolerant oak tree found in the valley.
* Shrubs:
* California Buckeye: A native shrub with showy flowers.
* California Lilac: A native shrub with fragrant flowers.
* Coyote Bush: A common shrub found in grasslands and along roadsides.
* Wildflowers:
* California Poppy: The state flower of California, the California poppy is a beautiful wildflower that blooms in the spring.
* Lupine: A beautiful wildflower that grows in a variety of colors.
* Indian Paintbrush: A showy wildflower with vibrant red, yellow, or pink blooms.
It's important to note that this is just a small sampling of the diverse animal and plant life found in the Central Valley. Many other species are found in the region, and the specific plants and animals present will vary depending on the location and habitat.