Biodiversity
Ecosystems in Harmony
One of the five major wilderness areas in the world, El Carmen contains five different regional ecosystems.
Desert Scrublands
The microphyllous rosetophyllous desert scrub is a fascinating habitat adapted to the arid conditions of northeastern Mexico, where cacti and other succulent plants predominate.
Grasslands
Dominated by diverse grasses and herbs, grasslands adapt from semi-arid to temperate climates, sprawling across both plains and elevated terrains. They provide grazing for animals such as the American bison and bighorn sheep.
Oak Forest
Oak forests, rich in diverse species of oaks and other hardwoods, offer a habitat for a wide range of wildlife. These woodlands flourish in cool to moderate climates, often in hilly or mountainous regions.
Pine Forest
Forest regions abundant in pines and towering trees. You can find them in mountainous zones with climates ranging from temperate to cold.
Gallery Forest
Located along rivers and streams, gallery forests boast a vibrant variety of tree species that thrive in this lush and nutrient-rich environment. This ecosystem is the perfect home for a diverse range of birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians.
Life at the Nature Reserve
A habitat for endemic species, El Carmen contributes to the wildlife conservation of 26% of the bird and 16% of the mammal species in Mexico.
+1.5K
plant species
289
avian species
81
reptile species
80
mammals species
The American bison
The Return of a Giant
After more than a century, the American bison is back in the region thanks to our nature conservancy efforts. More than 90 American bison, including the first generation born in the reserve, thrive today in El Carmen.
Animal wildlife
Key Figures
One of our wildlife conservation goals is to bring native species back to the natural reserve.
Black bear
The largest population in Mexico.
250
bighorn sheep
With +100 released in surrounding areas.
900
desert mule deer
Brought back from the brink of regional extinction.
100
pronghorn antelope
Back to the region for the first time since the 1950s.
+90
American bison
Some of them born at the natural reserve.
330 KM
interior fencing
Removed to make more space for habitat and wildlife.
20K
grassland hectares
Where numerous wild animals live together.
Some of Our Residents
Here are some of the examples of plant and animal life you can find at El Carmen:
Scaled Quail
Callipepla squamata
Class: Aves
Order: Galliformes
Order: Galliformes
Scaled Quail
Scientific Name:
Callipepla squamata
Ocotillo
Fouquieria splendens
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Order: Solanales
Ocotillo
Scientific Name:
Fouquieria splendens
Collared Lizard
Crotaphytus collaris
Class: Sauropsida
Order: Squamata
Order: Squamata
Collared Lizard
Scientific Name:
Crotaphytus collaris
More Info
Heading Example
Heading Example
Have Any Questions?
While public visitation isn't possible, we welcome inquiries from researchers, conservationists, and those passionate about conservation.
©2024 El Carmen Nature Reserve
This reserve is owned and managed by
