Sedona, Arizona, captivates visitors with its striking red rock formations and diverse natural landscapes. Characterized by canyons, desert scrub, and riparian areas, this environment provides a rich habitat for many animal species. Its varied elevations create distinct ecological niches, supporting a surprising diversity of wildlife. This article explores the animals that call Sedona home.
Mammals of the Red Rocks
Sedona’s landscape supports a variety of mammals. Javelina, often mistaken for wild pigs, are actually peccaries, recognizable by their coarse, dark hair and a faint white collar. These social animals typically move in herds of 6 to 20, foraging for plants, cacti, and berries. Javelina possess poor eyesight but a keen sense of smell, and they can become defensive if threatened, especially when protecting their young.
Mule deer are a common sight, particularly in open fields and meadows, and are most active around sunrise and sunset. These deer are distinguishable by their large, mule-like ears. Coyotes, while primarily nocturnal, are regularly seen in parks and can sometimes be observed during daylight hours hunting small prey.
Bobcats, more elusive nocturnal predators, may be spotted at dawn or dusk, occasionally venturing into residential areas in search of rodents. Mountain lions, though rarely seen due to their secretive nature, are also present, preying on larger mammals like javelina. Smaller mammals, including various rodents like rock squirrels, also inhabit the area, forming a base for the food chain.
Birds of the Canyons and Sky
Sedona is a destination for birdwatching, with numerous species soaring above the red rocks or flitting through riparian zones. Various raptors, such as red-tailed hawks, can be seen circling high overhead. Peregrine falcons and great horned owls also inhabit the area, with eagles, including Bald and Golden varieties, present. Harris’s hawks and common black hawks are often observed near water bodies like Oak Creek, where they hunt fish and small animals.
Smaller, colorful birds add to the avian diversity, including the Greater Roadrunner, known for its ability to run at speeds up to 26 miles per hour rather than fly. These distinctive birds are often seen along roads and open desert areas, hunting insects and small reptiles. Hummingbirds are abundant, with species like Anna’s, Black-chinned, Rufous, and Broad-billed hummingbirds being common visitors, especially around feeders. Sedona even hosts an annual Hummingbird Festival.
Many songbirds thrive in Sedona’s varied habitats, ranging from American and Lesser Goldfinches to Orioles, Tanagers, and various species of woodpeckers and thrushes. Locations like the Sedona Wetlands Preserve offer opportunities to observe a wide array of birdlife, including many wetland species.
Reptiles and Amphibians of the Desert Floor
Sedona’s desert environment is home to various reptiles, adapted to arid conditions. Numerous lizard species, such as the Zebra-tailed, Clark’s Spiny, and Desert Spiny Lizards, are encountered basking on rocks or darting across trails. The Gila monster, an iconic and venomous lizard native to Arizona, is rarely sighted.
Snakes are part of Sedona’s ecosystem, including several rattlesnake species like the Black-tailed and Western Diamondback. These venomous snakes are most active in cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, seeking shade during heat. Non-venomous snakes, such as Gopher and King snakes, control rodent populations. King snakes, sometimes mistaken for venomous coral snakes, are constrictors and harmless to humans.
Amphibians, though less common in this dry region, can be found near permanent water sources like Oak Creek and seasonal pools. These animals rely on moisture for survival and reproduction.
Safe Wildlife Viewing and Coexistence
Observing Sedona’s wildlife responsibly ensures the safety of animals and people. Maintaining a respectful distance from wild animals is important, as approaching them can cause stress or provoke defensive behaviors. Never attempt to feed wild animals, as this can lead to them losing their natural fear of humans and becoming dependent or aggressive.
Securing food and trash is important, as easily accessible human food sources can attract wildlife like javelina into residential areas, leading to conflicts. When walking with pets, keeping them on a leash is advisable, particularly since animals like javelina can react aggressively towards dogs, which they perceive as predators.
Awareness of animal activity patterns enhances safety; many species are most active during dawn and dusk. Staying on designated trails and practicing “Leave No Trace” principles, such as packing out all trash, helps preserve the natural habitat and minimize human impact. Refraining from chasing or handling animals ensures their well-being.