The Obama Administration is set to establish 14 new national monuments, and two would be in New Mexico. I’ve long known that Otero Mesa was under consideration. The second one is a wonderful surprise, and would convert the Sand Ranch into a Lesser Prairie Chicken National Monument. I’ve loved learning about, watching, and photographing these unique grouses of the prairie over the last two years. I won’t be attending the Annual Lesser Prairie Chicken Festival this year, so it’s an added plus to learn of this possibility. This would allow for federal funding and additional resources for the birds, as well as establish a safe place protected from the burdens that agriculture, grazing, and oil and gas have placed on their habitats. Here are two links to my posts from the last two years, including sound files. I just love these little chickens!
Feb 222010