Dominated by a variety of landscapes, the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve in Mexico is an important region for many migratory marine and bird species
Rich in biodiversity
Mexico’s largest protected area, the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve spreads over more than 250 sq.km. It covers a large region between Baja California and the Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortes), making it rich in both terrestrial and marine life. Dominated by scrublands, pine forests, coastal dunes, mangroves, and lagoons, the Reserve is fertile too. It supports more than 400 floral species and 300 vertebrates, in addition to several species of fish. It is an important region for many migratory marine and bird species. The Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino, which falls within the boundaries. of the Reserve, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. It is an important reproduction and wintering site for not just the grey whale but also other species such as seals and sea lions.
The Reserve faces threats in the form of agriculture, illegal fishing, and hunting, in addition to infrastructure development projects. It is believed that all these could have a major impact on the biodiversity of the region..
Wildlife
While the grey whale is the most significant creature of the region, there are several species of birds and mammals found here. Marine mammals seen here are turtles. seals, sea lions, and dolphins. Among the birds spotted are ospreys, pelicans, egrets, cormorants, gulls, terns, plovers, eagles, and falcons. Migrant species that arrive here include the Pacific black brant and northern pintails. In addition to mammals such as pronghorn, deer, bobcats, coyotes, sheep, and squirrels, there are also many types of reptiles and amphibians, including lizards and snakes.
Picture Credit : Google