The Ultimate Guide to Arizona’s Desert Wildlife and Native Plants

Arizona is a famous place with a large desert, high mountains and warm climate. The desert may appear at first sight to be barren and dry. However, it is full of life. In this harsh and hot land many animals, birds, insects and plants can endure. They have special means of getting water, keeping cool and protecting themselves. A visit to the desert is more interesting and enjoyable if you know what to expect in terms of wildlife and native plants.

Arizona’s Desert Wildlife

Coyote is one of the most prevalent desert creatures to be found in Arizona. Coyotes are small dogs with long tails and pointed ears. These can occur quite early in the morning or at night. They feed on small animals, fruit and insects. Coyote can be heard singing loudly after dark. It is advised not to feed or touch them from a close distance.

Another popular desert animal is the roadrunner. It is a member of the swift family which typically prefers to run on the ground rather than fly. Roadrunner feeds on insects, small snakes and lizards. Arizona is also home to many other birds, such as hawks, owls, hummingbirds, and quail. Many beautiful bird species can be observed in the vicinity of desert plants and water sources.

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The desert of Arizona is also inhabited by reptiles. Warm rocks are often used by lizards to warm themselves up. There are also other desert snakes such as rattlesnakes. Generally rattlesnakes do not want to come near people. The visitor should be careful when walking and should not place his hands under rocks or in holes. When hiking, it is advisable to wear sturdy footwear as well.

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Jackrabbits, desert tortoises, squirrels and javelinas are examples of small desert animals. Javelinas are somewhat similar in appearance to wild pigs, but are not the same. They are typically found in groups and feed on roots, fruit and cacti plants. Desert tortoises are slow-moving and spend a considerable amount of their time in burrows. These shelters provide them with a place to be safe from the heat.

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The saguaro cactus is the most popular of all the flora in the state of Arizona. Can reach a high height and be quite long-lived. There are large arms that point towards the sky on some of the saguaros. They are frequently used by birds to nest. The cactus has a thick body that holds water and can withstand long periods of dry weather. There should be no cutting, damaging or removal of a saguaro.

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Prickly pear cactus, cholla cactus, palo verde trees, and creosote bushes are other common desert plants. The flowers of prickly pear plants are colored and flat green pads. The spines of cholla cactus can easily penetrate the skin and clothing. The flowers are small yellow ones and the bark is green on the Palo verde trees. After a rainfall, creosote bushes may give off a new aroma.

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Spring is one of the best times to see native plants in the state of Arizona. With sufficient winter precipitation, the desert can be blanketed with spectacular wildflowers. Yellow, orange, purple and white flowers may be scattered over the ground. Beautiful this season, but visitors should remain on marked paths and refrain from picking flowers.

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The Arizona desert is a unique environment with some surprising life. All animals and plants play a role in the desert. Travelers should not disturb wildlife, pack several day bottles of water and do not touch cactus plants, and do not bring any garbage along. Arizona’s beauty awaits discovery, and it’s a place that can be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come.

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