Isla Las Ánimas facts for kids
Isla Las Animas (right)
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 Isla Las Animas
Location in Mexico
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Gulf of California |
| Coordinates | 25°05′52.85″N 110°34′24.95″W / 25.0980139°N 110.5735972°W |
| Highest elevation | 20 m (70 ft) |
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Mexico
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| State | Baja California Sur |
| Demographics | |
| Population | Uninhabited |
Isla Las Animas is a small island located in the Gulf of California. This gulf is a large body of water that separates the Baja California Peninsula from the mainland of Mexico. The island is not home to any people and is part of the La Paz Municipality in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur.
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Discovering Isla Las Animas
Isla Las Animas is a quiet, uninhabited island. It sits off the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula. This area is known for its beautiful desert landscapes and rich marine life. The island's name, "Las Animas," means "The Souls" in Spanish.
The island is relatively small, with an elevation of about 20 meters (66 feet). Its isolation means that it provides a safe home for certain types of wildlife.
Island Life: Reptiles of Las Animas
Even though no humans live on Isla Las Animas, it is home to some interesting animals. Specifically, two types of reptiles make their home here. These creatures are well-adapted to the island's dry environment.
San Lucan Leaf-Toed Gecko
One of the reptiles found on the island is the Phyllodactylus unctus, also known as the San Lucan leaf-toed gecko. Geckos are small, usually nocturnal lizards. They are famous for their special toe pads that allow them to climb walls and even ceilings. The San Lucan leaf-toed gecko is native to the Baja California Peninsula and nearby islands. It likely finds shelter in rocky areas and hunts small insects at night.
Black-Tailed Brush Lizard
The other reptile living on Isla Las Animas is the Urosaurus nigricauda, or the black-tailed brush lizard. These lizards are often seen during the day. They typically live in areas with shrubs and rocks, where they can bask in the sun. They are quick and agile, often darting among the bushes to catch insects or avoid predators. The black-tailed brush lizard is also common in the Baja California region.
Why Islands are Special for Wildlife
Islands like Isla Las Animas are very important for biodiversity. Because they are isolated, unique species can sometimes evolve there. These species might not be found anywhere else in the world. Protecting these islands helps to protect these special animals and their habitats.
See also
In Spanish: Isla Las Ánimas para niños
