Big Morongo

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Big Morongo Wildlife Reserve

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Of the 22 oases in the Mojave Desert this one probably exhibits the greatest variety of flora and fauna. At least five distinct plant communities are found on the Reserve, the creosote bush scrub, riparian woodland, freshwater marsh, desert wash, and grassland; the latter was under cultivation and is now being allowed to revert to a more natural state. The freshwater marsh, dominated by Typha spp., Scirpus acutus and Scirpus californicus, is a most unusual feature in the desert and provides a habitat for a number of species that would not otherwise exist in the area.

A number of California fan palms, Washingtonia filifera, are found here.

Wildlife is abundant and the area is particularly known as a bird-watching site, with some 230 species of birds having been sighted. Forty-eight species of mammals have been recorded on the Reserve, as have 20 snake and 15 lizard species.

The Morongo fault, running along the base of the hills, allows water draining from San Gorgonio to come to the surface at several natural springs which at numerous localities form intermittent streams.

Morongo Valley provides the easiest route between the high and low deserts and was well traveled by Indians. There are several archaeological sites within the Reserve.

Integrity: Though portions were farmed until 1968, much of the area remains in a relatively undisturbed condition. The County has built visitor facilities but is seeking to protect the wildlife values of the area.

Use: Educational, research, observational, light recreation.

Ref: Anon. 1974. Big Morongo Wildlife Reserve Memorandum No. 3. San Bernardino County Regional Parks.

Send mail to naturebase@aol.com with questions or comments about this web site. Last modified: December 06, 2005

Send mail to naturebase@aol.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: December 06, 2005