CONSERVATION for the Western Desert Association is tied to seeing and learning about
the diverse wildlife and plants that make the Sonoran Desert the most beautiful desert
in
the world.
Over the last 30 years, areas like Saddle Mountain have had highs and lows in wildlife
populations. In the 1970’s a BLM study reported that Desert Bighorn Sheep (DBS) no
longer lived in the area. Human impacts had negatively affected the population.
Yet, as the impacts ended DBS returned to Saddle Mountain because of its ideal lambing
characteristics. Four natural water sites (tanijas) and now one expanded to wildlife
water catchment have helped this area also.
Today we know this small group is linked to the other nearby mountain ranges. Maintaining
wildlife linkages are essential for Desert Bighorn Sheep and many other species.
Easy access to the north side of Saddle Mountain provides varied recreational opportunities.
Conserving the south side as back county will help maintain the link for wildlife
to the Gila Mountains and Eagletail Mountains Wilderness.
On this map (click to enlarge) research by Paul Krausman shows the canyons, cliffs,
and the steep escape terrain (green) that provides young lambs with protection.
To learn more see this biologists review of Desert Bighorn Sheep and Saddle Mountain.
Saddle Mountain has a wide range of wildlife. See more details about bighorn sheep,
kit fox, raptors, and other species at: Wildlife Review, TAC 2003.