Mohawks | Arizona Wildlife Conservation Strategy

The Mohawk Dunes are a large, narrow, isolated dune field, primarily on the west side of the Mohawk Mountains. Most of the dune system lies within the Barry M. Goldwater Range, while the northernmost areas are located on private land. These dunes support the usual array of showy sand-specialized plants, including Ajo lily, sand verbena, and dune evening primrose. The endemic Mohawk Dunes fringe-toed lizard also occurs here, and Sonoran pronghorn roam the dunes and surrounding habitats. Isolated populations of Couch’s spadefoot breed in a few, mesquite-dominated playas adjacent to the dunes. The seasonally-filled playas can also provide habitat for a number of shorebirds. Threats to the dunes include off-highway vehicles and illegal activities associated with the international border. Biologically, invasive Sahara mustard covers the dune field during years of good winter rains. The Mohawk Mountains and Dunes are a Southwestern Sonoran Priority Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Area (PARCA). The steep, narrow Mohawk Mountains have been poorly explored, and may harbor previously unknown populations of invertebrates, reptiles, and small mammals.

Conservation Goals

Maintain unfragmented habitat for species found within and adjacent to the Mohawk Dunes, and eliminate the threat of invasive plants.

Map

Primary Threats

7. Human Intrusions and Disturbance

7.1: Recreational activities

7.3: Work and other activities

8. Invasive and Other Problematic Species

8.1: Invasive non-native species

Potential Conservation Actions

2. Land and Water Management

2.2: Invasive/problematic species control

Eradicate, control and/or prevent introduction and spread of invasive and/or other problematic plants, especially Sahara mustard, that is adversely-affecting native habitats.