The Tumacacori Highlands are one of the most biologically diverse areas in the United States. As one of most popular birding areas in the world with more than 400 bird species, the Sky Island region and Tumacacori Highlands also host more mammal and reptile species than anywhere else in the United States.

Tropically-orientated plants and animals, such as the Mexican vine snake, epiphytes (plants that grow in trees), five striped sparrow, Sonoran Chub (endangered fish), and others cannot be found anywhere else in the United States.

Wilderness designation benefits:

Wildlife Habitat. The Sky Islands are the most diverse U.S. area for mammals, with some 90 different native species. The area provides exceptional habitat for rare and sensitive species and offers refuge for many endangered species, such as the peregrine falcon, Chiricahua leopard frog, and Mexican spotted owl.

Photo © Rick Williams

Southeastern Arizona also boasts the highest concentration of jaguar sightings in the nation and offers birding enthusiasts one of the most species-rich habitats in the world. The Photo © Rick Williams
Chiricahua Mountains alone host more than half of the recorded bird species in the Unifted States.

Ecosystem Protection. A Wilderness Area is protected and managed so as to preserve its natural conditions and is recognized as an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by humans. Natural cycles, processes, and systems are conserved with Wilderness designation – these critical aspects of our “web of life” support much of our lives in many direct and indirect ways.

Clean Air and Clean Water. As part of the Santa Cruz River watershed, the Tumacacori Highlands provide a naturally functioning ecosystem that offers clean air and water for residents surrounding the area. Wilderness designation in the Highlands will help to keep our watersheds and air healthy for the future.

Hunting. With a dwindling amount of places free of roads, Wilderness areas not only foster exceptional habitat, but also provides areas free of human influence and exceptional recreational opportunities, including hunting. The Tumacacori Highlands are an exceptional whitetail deer hunting ground, rated “excellent” by the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

The primitive nature and unroaded areas of the Tumacacori Highlands offers hunters an increasingly rare traditional backcountry experience in Arizona.