New Mexico, the 5th largest state in US in terms of area, is located in the southwestern region of the country. Part of the southern Rocky Mountains, including the Sangre de Cristo and Jemez ranges, are loathed in the state. The iconic Rio Grande carves through the heart of the state, forming dramatic canyons. As a result, the state boasts various habitats, including arid desert regions, pine-juniper woodlands, grasslands, alpine forests, marshlands, and riparian areas.
The state is characterized by its rich flora and fauna and is home to several national parks and protected areas for wildlife that offer a chance to get a closer look at the native animals of the state. These include the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, Carson National Forest, and Gila Wilderness.
List of Different Types of Animals Found in New Mexico
The grizzly bear and wolverine populations have been extirpated from the state. Animals like the Mexican wolf, plains bison, and North American river otter have been reintroduced and have a stable population at present
Apart from the native species, there are quite a few ungulates that are introduced to the state – like the Siberian ibex, Himalayan tahr, and wild goat.
The state is home to venomous reptiles like the western diamondback and Mojave rattlesnakes. Other deadly animals, like the prairie and Arizona black rattlesnakes, Arizona bark scorpions, and black widow spiders also live here. Large predatory carnivores like the black bear, coyote, Mexican wolf, and cougars are also among the most dangerous animals in the state.
The bobcat, piping plover, bog turtle, least tern, and Chiricahua leopard frog are some rare animals as they are considered threatened or endangerd, and are protected by law in New Mexico.
What are some common invasive animals in New Jersey?
One of this state’s most notable invasive animals is the Oryx, originally native to Africa. Another species that is threatening the local ecosystem is the wild boar.
Are there any animals that only live in New Mexico?
The Harris’s antelope squirrel, New Mexico shrew, New Mexico whiptail, and white sands pupfish are some examples of animals endemic to New Mexico. Apart from these, several mollusks and clams are found only in this state.
