Las Cruces
Ecosystem Overview
The Las Cruces ecosystem supports 100 documented wildlife species across 88 taxonomic genera. Located in doña ana county, new mexico, this area provides critical habitat with diverse natural communities. The location hosts 21 frequently observed species and 19 occasionally documented species, creating a balanced ecosystem with both resident and visiting wildlife. Compared to nearby Sunland Park, Las Cruces hosts 1150% more species diversity. This location ranks #1 for species diversity among 13 doña ana county County natural areas, placing it in the 92th percentile for biodiversity.
Biodiversity Highlights
Species Distribution
Regional Context
Most Common Species
Showing 20 most frequently observed species out of 100 total documented species.
Larrea tridentata
Yucca elata
soaptree yucca
Chilopsis linearis
desert-willow
Zenaida asiatica
White-winged Dove
Quiscalus mexicanus
Great-tailed Grackle
Ephedra trifurca
longleaf joint-fir
Zenaida macroura
Mourning Dove
Atriplex canescens
Fourwing saltbush
Haemorhous mexicanus
House Finch
Fouquieria splendens
vine-cactus
Toxostoma curvirostre
curve-billed thrasher
Dasyochloa pulchella
Parkinsonia aculeata
Jerusalem thorn
Vachellia constricta
whitethorn acacia
Yucca treculiana
Asphondylia auripila
Dryobates scalaris
Ladder-backed Woodpecker
Tribulus terrestris
Puncturevine
Opuntia macrocentra
Purple Prickly-pear
Cathartes aura
Turkey Vulture
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Nearby Wildlife Areas in Doña Ana County
Discover 8 other wildlife-rich locations near Las Cruces. Each offers unique biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities.
🌿 Premier Wildlife Areas (1 nearby)
🦅 Rich Wildlife Destinations (2 nearby)
🌱 Specialized Habitats (5 nearby)
Regional Wildlife Network
These nearby locations complement Las Cruceswithin Doña Ana County's wildlife network. Species counts reflect documented observations and help identify the most biodiverse areas for your nature explorations.