Type: report

Article abstract: Southern California supports both coastal and desert populations of the Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus). In coastal regions, Cactus Wrens are year round residents of coastal sage scrub plant communities that contain cholla and/or prickly‐pear cactus tall enough (>1 m) to support and protect nests. Mature stands of cactus are patchily distributed within coastal sage scrub leading to a naturally patchy distribution of Cactus Wren in coastal southern California. Despite this uneven distribution, Cactus Wrens were historically widespread and abundant. In the last few decades, coastal populations have shown dramatic declines and are of great conservation concern.