Big Bend National Park contains the Chisos Mountains which are a sharp contrast to the desert that surrounds them. Their green, lush environment is a result of an Alpine forest that developed tens of thousands of years ago. Both the mountainous area and the dessert are home to numerous species of animals and fauna. Because of its dual habitats Big Bend is a major stopping point for migratory birds, making it an important spot in ornithology.
Big Bend's geography can tell the story of land throughout history. Volcanic and oceanic activity from the past has lefts its mark throughout the geography. The area is rife with fossils for archeologists ranging from small sea animals to dinosaurs.
Big Bend National Park and its geographical formations were formed by the environment and the Rio Grande, much like the Grand Canyon was carved by the Colorado River. Human inhabitants first came to Big Bend between 10,000 and 6,000 B.C. The Paleo Indians were hunter gathers and hunted buffalo by driving them over the cliffs in Big Bend.
Archeologist have discovered tools of the Paleo Indians that are dated between 6,000 B.C. and A.D. 900, throughout Big Bend. Evidence of agriculture and settlement dating to between 900 and 1500 A.D. has been found in Big Bend. The Spanish were the first non-Indians to explore and settle in Big Bend.
There are a reported 75 species of mammals in Big Bend National Park, and another six are suspected to reside there. Most of the mammals are nocturnal due to the extreme heat of the day. Common mammals include deer, shrews, moles, bats, javelina, bobcats, pigs, mountain lion, fox and coyote, to just name a few.
There are a reported 56 species of reptile in Big Bend and 11 species of amphibians. Thirty species of snakes, 22 species of lizards and four species of turtles comprise the three largest groups of reptiles.
Plants in Big Bend National Park are some of the greatest examples of plant adaptation for survival. Because of the the extremes in temperature all of the plants in Big Bend must adapt to survive in some ways. Some of the different strategies range from losing all of their leaves or using a waxy coating or spines to protect their water and food supplies.
There are five types of vegetation throughout the park: Chihuahuan Desert Scrub, grasslands, Oak-Juniper-Pinyon Woodland, pine oak forests and Riparian Communities.
Because of its location and varied environments Big Bend National Park attracts hundreds of species of birds during their migration. Throughout the year over 425 species visit the park. Some birds that call Big Bend their home are extremely uncommon throughout the United States and they include the Lucifer hummingbird, elf owl, crissal thrasher, Mexican jay, black-chinned sparrow and the band-tailed pigeon.
