During the 1920's, farming, grazing, intentional burning by island residents, and the introduction of rabbits severely damaged the native vegetation. Though non-native grasses including oats, barley, and brome dominate the landscape, with protection and encouragement the native vegetation, is recovering. With the rabbits now removed, stands of giant coreopsis are thriving. In places this sunflower blankets the island with tiny, bright yellow flowers. California sea lions and, in winter, elephant seals breed on the island.
Bird watching is superb.
Western gulls nest in abundance, and occasionally brown pelicans nest here, too. Land birds, including barn owls, American kestrels, horned larks, and meadowlarks, also nest here. Although not commonly seen, the island deer mouse and the island night lizard, a threatened species, live on the island. A good place to start is the Canyon View Self-guided Nature Trail near the ranger station and campground. A trail booklet enables you to learn about most of the island's interesting features readily.