Colorado Springs, nestled at the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains, blends urban living with diverse natural landscapes. Its unique geography, where plains meet foothills and peaks, supports a rich variety of ecosystems. National forests, open spaces, and riparian areas provide habitats for numerous animal species, offering opportunities for wildlife observation.
Mammals of Colorado Springs
The Colorado Springs area is home to a robust population of mammals, from common urban dwellers to more elusive mountain inhabitants. Mule deer are frequently seen, often grazing in suburban areas. While white-tailed deer are also present, mule deer are more prevalent. Elk herds roam in parks such as Cheyenne Mountain State Park and Mueller State Park, utilizing critical migration corridors.
Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, Colorado’s state mammal, are a notable presence, particularly around iconic landmarks. These agile climbers, recognized by their massive curved horns, can often be observed in Garden of the Gods Park, Glen Eyrie Castle, and on Pikes Peak. During winter, these sheep migrate down from higher elevations for more accessible food sources.
Smaller mammals like coyotes and foxes are common residents. Coyotes, adaptable canids, are increasingly found in urban areas along the Front Range. Red foxes, distinguished by their pointy ears and white-tipped tails, are frequently seen, while swift and kit foxes typically inhabit more remote regions. The area also hosts various rabbits, including cottontails and jackrabbits, along with numerous rodents like prairie dogs, prevalent in parks and disturbed sites.
Squirrels, including the tufted-eared Abert’s squirrel, are common, alongside chipmunks, marmots, and pocket gophers. Though less frequently encountered in urban settings, black bears and mountain lions inhabit the surrounding wilderness. Black bears, which can range in color from black to light tan, are common in the Pikes Peak region and most active in spring and fall. Mountain lions, primarily nocturnal and elusive, are predators that primarily prey on deer.
Birds of the Region
The skies and landscapes of Colorado Springs support a diverse avian population, making the area a destination for birdwatchers. Common backyard birds include:
House Finch
Dark-Eyed Junco
Steller’s Jay
American Robin
These species thrive in urban and suburban environments, adding to the daily chorus of local birdlife.
Raptors such as the Red-tailed Hawk, Great Horned Owl, and Sharp-shinned Hawk soar above, hunting across the varied terrain. The majestic Golden Eagle also inhabits the region. Water birds, including ducks, geese like the Canada Goose and Mallard, and the Great Blue Heron, frequent local reservoirs and waterways.
Colorado Springs is part of the Central Flyway, a major migratory route for millions of birds. Spring and fall bring significant numbers of migratory species, including Barn Swallows, Western Meadowlarks, and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds. Various warblers and sandpipers also pass through, utilizing diverse habitats for resting and foraging during their long journeys.
Reptiles, Amphibians, and Aquatic Species
The cooler-blooded inhabitants of Colorado Springs include several snake species. Common non-venomous snakes include:
Western Yellow-bellied Racer
Plains Black-headed Snake
Bullsnake
Garter snakes
Bullsnakes, which can grow quite large, are known to mimic the rattling sound of venomous snakes to deter threats. The region also has venomous species, notably the Prairie Rattlesnake, which is the most widespread, and the Massasauga, primarily found in southeastern Colorado. Lizards, such as fence lizards, and various frog and toad species also populate the diverse habitats.
Local streams, rivers, and lakes are home to numerous fish species, attracting anglers throughout the year. Trout, including Rainbow, Brown, and the native Greenback Cutthroat, are prominent in these waters. Other fish found in the area include:
Bass
Walleye
Catfish
Bluegill
Pike
Kokanee Salmon
Popular fishing spots like Quail Lake, Prospect Lake, and the Arkansas River are regularly stocked, providing ample opportunities for fishing enthusiasts.
Coexisting Safely with Local Wildlife
Coexisting with wildlife requires responsible practices for human and animal safety. Maintain a safe distance from all wild animals; never feed them, including ducks and geese in parks. Human food can be detrimental to wildlife health and can lead to animals losing their natural fear, increasing dangerous encounters.
Secure trash to prevent conflicts, particularly with scavengers like bears, raccoons, and skunks. In Colorado Springs, especially in areas west of I-25, ordinances require residents to secure trash in bear-resistant containers or within enclosed structures like garages or sheds. Trash should only be placed outside on the morning of collection to minimize attraction.
Pet owners should keep animals leashed outdoors, particularly during dawn and dusk when many wildlife species are most active. Supervise pets and avoid known wildlife hotspots, such as wooded trails or areas near open fields. This can significantly reduce the risk of encounters. If an encounter occurs, keep pets close and slowly back away.
When encountering larger wildlife like bears or mountain lions, specific responses are advisable. For bears, making noise while hiking can alert them to human presence. If a bear approaches, remain calm, stand still, and avoid running. Make yourself appear as large as possible by raising your arms and speaking loudly. Bear spray can be effective if a bear comes within 40 feet. If attacked, fighting back is recommended.
For mountain lions, hike in groups and make noise. If confronted, do not run; instead, face the animal, make yourself look large, and speak firmly while slowly backing away. If a mountain lion attacks, fight back with any available means. If you encounter a rattlesnake, freeze, locate the snake, and slowly move away while maintaining at least six feet of distance.