Earth Discovery Institute is restoring 15 acres of cactus scrub at El Monte Ecological Preserve, a 142-acre preserve in Lakeside owned by Endangered Habitats Conservancy. Located between two known Coastal Cactus Wren populations, the site provides additional habitat and improves connectivity between these populations.

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Recent Milestones & Ecological Gains

• We are thrilled to share that in spring 2025, a pair of Coastal Cactus Wrens established a breeding territory at our restoration site and successfully raised chicks. The birds remain on-site and are often observed foraging and calling among the cactus patches.

• The proximity of our site to the Lake Jennings cluster is critical: by restoring and connecting habitat within this region, we strengthen landscape‑scale connectivity and facilitate dispersal among nearby wren populations.

• Since the start of restoration, we’ve documented a notable increase in biodiversity. California Species of Special Concern (CSSC) observed on-site include the San Diego Horned Lizard, California Gnatcatcher, and seven of the 14 bat species detected through acoustic monitoring. In addition, we’ve recorded a variety of native wildlife such as long-tailed weasels, coyotes, roadrunners, and California quail, among many others.​