Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Situated in central New Mexico, Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge spans over 230,000 acres, encompassing a wide variety of landscapes from arid deserts to lush bosque habitat. This refuge plays a crucial role in preserving the ecological intersection of four major biomes: the Colorado Plateau, Great Plains, Chihuahuan Desert, and the Rio Grande Valley. Its diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors to the refuge can expect to encounter various species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, including pronghorns and desert bighorn sheep. Established in 1973 primarily for research purposes, the refuge is less focused on recreational use than others, aligning with its mission to support scientific research and education. Despite this focus, there are limited opportunities for hiking and exploring within designated areas that afford spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
