LIVING DESERT STATE PARK
Dedicated to the interpretation of the Chihuahuan Desert, Living Desert State Park is an indoor/outdoor living museum displaying more than 40 native animal species and hundreds of succulents from around the world. While on the 1.3 mile self-guided tour, which takes approximately 1.5 hours, visitors will discover sand dunes and mountainous areas, where pinon and juniper trees contrast with the desert floor below.
Living Desert State Park is located near Carlsbad
Birds to Bison : Inside the walk-through aviary, visitors will see bird species ranging from small songbirds to hawks, eagles, turkeys and owls. Passing visitors also may see a mountain lion and bobcat perched on a rock ledge or peering through the vegetation. Kit fox, badger, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, elk, and bison also make their home at the park.
Never Cry Wolf : One of the park's main highlights are endangered Mexican wolves. Living Desert participates in the American Zoo and Aquarium ssociation?s Mexican gray wolf Species Survival Plan Program, exchanging wolves with other zoological facilities to help insure their survival.
Green House : A visit to Living Desert is not complete without a stop at the greenhouse. Here, hundreds of succulents and cacti from around the world show off their spines and beauty. Small barrel cacti, ocotillo and the majestic saguaro are just a few of the plants on display. Many cacti are also for sale in the Gift Shop.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is on the northwest edge of Carlsbad off US 285.