The 473-acre Carlsbad Highlands Ecological Reserve consists primarily of coastal sage scrub and grasslands. It supports California gnatcatchers, sharp-shinned hawks, black-shouldered kites, turkey vultures and golden eagles. This property was acquired to protect native plants and special habitats. It was designated as an ecological reserve by the Fish and Game Commission in 2000. For more information, call the South Coast Region San Diego office at (858) 467-4201.