Sky Islands: What are they?
The Patagonia area is situated in the Madrean Sky Islands, a biodiversity hotspot in Northern Mexico and Southern Arizona
Published on March 19, 2025 - Updated on March 20, 2025
The Madrean Sky Islands of Southern Arizona (& Northern Mexico) are isolated mountain ranges that rise dramatically from the surrounding desert, and are known for their immense biodiversity and uniqueness.
More than 7,000 species of faune and flora (including 1/2 of the birds in North America) make the Sky Islands one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.
Source: Sky Islands Alliance
The town of Patagonia and other surrounding towns (such as Sonoita, Elgin & Nogales) sit around 4,000 feet in elevation, creating a show of mountains that rise up to 10,000 feet in elevation.
From the Patagonia Area Resource Alliance:
Patagonia is the pollinator capital of the United States with over 600 species of native bees, 300 types of butterflies and moths, 14 hummingbird species and two nectar-feeding bat species.
Source: Sky Island Alliance
Coming Together
This special spot in boderlandia brings together more than just cultures on both sides of the border, but also ecosystems North & West, East & South.
The uniqueness of the area awes nature lovers, artists, and brings together all walks of life.
Find out more about the Sky Islands on the following websites: