Lachay National Reserve


Lachay National Reserve is a protected area in the region of Lima, Peru. The reserve is located north from the Peruvian capital, Lima, and protects part of the lomas ecosystem.

Climate

Climate at the reserve is typical of the lomas: there is a wet season, from June to October and a dry season from January to May.

Ecology

The lomas ecosystem consists of areas of coastal desert, mostly hills, that receive enough moisture during winter for plant life to thrive, unlike the drought conditions in summer.

Flora

Among the native plant species present in the park are: Tara spinosa, Vasconcellea candicans, Ismene amancaes, Verbena litoralis, Vachellia macracantha, Heliotropium arborescens, Armatocereus matucanensis, etc.

Fauna

Some birds found in the reserve are: the vermilion flycatcher, the Andean tinamou, the American kestrel, the burrowing owl, etc.
Some mammals found here are: the Sechuran fox, the white-tailed deer, the Pampas cat, the puma, etc.

Archaeology

archaeological remains have been found in the reserve such as: man-made terraces, cave paintings, tombs and pieces of pottery.

Recreation

The main activities in the reserve are birdwatching and hiking. Campsites in the reserve have some amenities like picnic tables, outhouses, parking spots, etc.

Environmental issues

The main environmental issues that threat the integrity of the reserve are: unregulated tourism, firewood extraction, cattle grazing, illegal mining, four-wheel drive vehicles outside authorized roads, garbage, invasive species and archaeological looting.