Wetland, Grassland, Oak Woodland, and Chaparral plant communities offer varied habitats for living creatures found in the park. Deer, Coyote, Bobcat, Raccoon, and other small animals are frequently sighted. The cool, wooded gullies of the eastern slope of the park are rich in ferns and mosses, and a thick layer of woody and herbaceous plants. The central portion of the park is dominated by a prominent ridge about 800 feet in elevation, affording outstanding views of Skyline Ridge, Huddart Park, the San Andreas Gulf Zone, the Crystal Springs Lakes and the San Francisco Bay. This ridge typically supports Chaparral on its warm western slope, and Oak Woodland on its less exposed cool eastern slopes.
The grasslands and warm summer climate make Edgewood home for several species of snakes and reptiles including rattlesnakes. Skunks, yellow jackets and bees are also found there. Please respect their presence and avoid contact.
Ten rare or endangered plant species have been identified in the park, including the San Mateo Thornmint. It once graced the hills of the San Francisco Bay Area before development destroyed most of its habitat. Many majestic trees and colorful plants adorn the Park. The California Native Plant Society's Flora of Edgewood Park lists the remarkable diversity plant species found here.
The Bay checkerspot butterfly, once an inhabitant of the entire Bay Area, and now listed as an endangered species, is found only in this park, in Kirby Canyon in southern Santa Clara County, Coyote Ridge in San Jose, and San Bruno Mountain State and County Park in northern San Mateo County. Read about the efforts to increase the population of this butterfly in Edgewood Park in the Bay Checkerspot Reintroduction Project Update.
All of these rare plant and animal species are protected in the Park and Preserve, and their habitats maybe off limits to park users. Please observe signs carefully, and stay on designated trails.
Prepare for a safe and enjoyable visit to Edgewood Park and other San Mateo County Parks by being aware of your natural environment.