Laguna de Sayula. 02/02/04; Jalisco; 16,800 ha; 20°02'N 103°32'W. Located in the Zacoalco-Sayula Valley, between the two big mountains (sierras) of Mexico (Tapalpa and Tigre), the Laguna de Sayula is a continental salt marsh sheltering 132 species of birds, 40 mammals and 14 amphibians and reptiles. Five of the 56 species of waterfowl are considered globally threatened, and the site supports about 40,000 individuals of some of these. The area is also important for its cultural and historical value, and 170 points have been identified as important for archeological values. The Laguna is the main area for the production and export of the Pitahaya de Queretaro cactus but also an important production area for nuts and coffee. Changes in land use and management and the alteration of the water flows supplying the Laguna are the main threats. The area is considered Área Prioritária para la Conservación de la Región II (South Mexico) and also site of interest for the conservation of migratory waterfowl species. Ramsar site no. 1338. Most recent RIS information: 2004.

Jalisco