Just a few weeks ago, the SIA team, CONANP, and volunteers toured the Sierra Los Ajos, one of our most important Sky Islands, marveling at its biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. Today, that same mountain range is being consumed by a fire that has been raging since June 19, a large-scale wildfire within the Bavispe Flora and Fauna Protection Area, located between the municipalities of Fronteras and Cananea, Sonora.
According to official information from Sonora authorities, more than 2,435 hectares of forest have been affected so far. The fire is reported to be 40% contained and 30% extinguished, while firefighters continue working to contain the spread.
As we mentioned in our last blog about Sierra Los Ajos, the accumulated drought, dry plants, and lack of rainfall in the region, in addition to strong winds and high temperatures in recent days that have exceeded 30°C, are factors that have contributed to the intensification of the fire.
The Sierra Los Ajos is a refuge for hundreds of species of flora and fauna. It’s also an important area as a biological corridor between the ecosystems of northern Mexico and the southern United States.
Our organization urgently calls for prevention, as most forest fires are caused by human activities. Avoid leaving campfires or embers in camping areas, do not throw cigarette butts, or leave glass or trash, as these can be flammable or concentrate sunlight.