BLM wilderness areas comprise many key links in these landscape connections between our peaks and valleys, as well as along the many river valleys to neighboring states and ecoregions.

Threatened and Endangered Species
Endangered and threatened species such as the peregrine falcon and the bald eagle find nesting areas in the canyons of western Colorado. The rich habitat along many perennial streams and rivers provide excellent feeding grounds for these raptors. Many imperiled species, such as the canyon tree frog, kit fox, kachina daisy, sage grouse, and the pikeminnow also depend on these areas for their survival.

Big Game
Big game such as elk and deer, as well as predators like black bear and mountain lion, find these mid-elevation lands necessary for winter range and feeding. These wilderness areas also include: critical winter range for our big game herds when they descend from the protected high country; slickrock canyons that are never snowbound, providing accessibility to recreationists year-round; and protection for the intermittent streams and springs upon which our desert bighorns and other wildlife depend.