Arizonans know that our deserts and forests are teeming with an incredibly wide number of animals, large and small. Since human settlements encroach on their homes, we come across wildlife quite often, even in central Phoenix.
Even though they are such close neighbors, remember to always respect their boundaries: never feed wildlife and never attempt to handle them. If you feel uncomfortable with wild animals entering your yard--like coyotes or javelinas--the best thing you can do is shoo them away to discourage them from coming back. Removal of wildlife by the Game & Fish Department should be considered a last resort because this land is their home, too.
In the meanwhile, here are some pictures of the stunning animals we can see around the state!
1. “Peek-a-boo,” says the elk!
2. Frogs are especially loud, including this northern leopard frog pictured below, after the summer rains.
3. This scary little guy, an Arizona bark scorpion, will have you clenching your toes in fear.
Keep in mind that people have been known to get seriously ill or even die from this scorpion’s stings. Always check your shoes before putting them on and watch where you’re stepping!
4. This cactus wren looks absolutely stunning against a pure blue sky.
No wonder it’s our state bird!
5. Mmm, bacon. I mean, look at this javelina looking at you.
6. Don’t disturb the prairie dog from his meal.
Just remember to not feed the wildlife!
7. No, really, don’t feed the wildlife!
8. Here’s an urban coyote enjoying a sunny day on the golf course.
The amazing employees at Game & Fish will tell you that if a coyote comes into your yard, like this guy found in Scottsdale, the best thing to do is scare it away. Yell, make loud noises, or spray with water to let them know they aren’t allowed in your yard. They can find their meals elsewhere.
9. This roadrunner is on the prowl for dinner.
10. Uh oh, looks like the roadrunner found its prey: a cactus wren.
11. You’ll want to avoid getting this close to a Gila monster.
Even though there are no known deaths from their venomous bites, it can still be quite painful.
12. Even if you cringe at the thought of spiders, you have to admit the colors on this jumping spider are beautiful.
13. The burrowing owl is a bit of an anomaly.
They are active during the day and their long legs allow them to run after prey if necessary.
14. This western bluebird enjoys a quiet morning alone.
15. Navajos refer to the horned lizard as “grandpa.”
Some people also call the reptile a "horned toad" but keep in mind that "horny toad" is incorrect.
16. This whitethroat woodrat peeks out from behind a prickly pear for a moment.
Apparently, they love shiny objects so keep your keys close!
17. If you want to see a desert cottontail rabbit yourself, look for a quiet place around dawn or dusk. Or keep a garden.
18. This Gambel’s quail chick is looking adorable in Tucson!
19. This mule deer near the Grand Canyon looks intimidating in the snow.
We must've disturbed dinner time, moving on!
20. Finally, this little rock squirrel wishes you a good day!
Whew, that was a lot of animals but is was still hardly a fraction of the variety we can see across Arizona. Which are your favorites? Tell us in the comments below!
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