Wildlife and Critical Habitat
This area remains some of the finest remnant Chihuahan Desert
grassland in the state. Blue and black gramma grasses are a magnet
for the migratory songbirds that winter on the grasslands.
Many threatened or endangered species such as Baird's Sparrow,
Lark Bunting, Cassin's Sparrow and Burrowing Owls are drawn to
this remote grassland. Many southern species from South America
and Mexico look to this area for refuge as many acres continue
to be fragmented or developed south of the border.
This area is home to
one of the states most genetically pure herds of pronghorn; they
have never needed reintroduction. For sportsman, this area is
open only to bow and muzzle loading seasons. Currently, the herd
numbers over 600 strong. North of Carlsbad a similar herd of 300
has been reduced in just 5 years to 30, in part the result of
fragmentation, pollution and the stress of increased human presence.
In recent years the
Aplomado Falcon was seen in this country.
The Aplomado was extirpated from New Mexico back in the late 50's.
In the months ahead plans are for the Aplomado to be reintroduced
in West Texas and north of Otero on one of Ted Turner's ranches.
In the near future it seems likely if the area is not developed,
that the Aplamado could once again be nesting in the Greater Otero
Mesa Area.
Otero
Mesa Species:
Bald
Eagle
Black
Grama Grass
Black-tailed
Prairie Dog
Burrowing
Owl
Coyote
Cooper's
Hawk
Ferruginous
Hawk
Golden
Eagle
Great
Horned Owl
Gray-Banded
King Snake
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