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Wildlife in Tucson Arizona
A Local's Guide to Desert Creatures
The wildlife in Tucson Arizona are interesting, and can be lots of fun.
Our city sits in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, one of the most biologically rich deserts in the world. You'll find there's a chance to encounter some of our animal life.
See the ways you can get up close, and with some - the need to do that safely!
Why Tucson's Wildlife is so Special
Within an hour’s drive, travelers can see everything from desert reptiles basking on rocks to rare birds soaring above saguaro cacti.
More than 350 bird species, 100 reptiles, and dozens of mammals call this region home. That's why it's one of North America’s premier wildlife destinations.
From quirky to majestic, from scary to friendly, wildlife in Tucson Arizona always seems to spark curiosity.
Birds, Reptiles, Mammals & Amphibians
in Tucson
We have an overview of some of the most interesting animals you might chance upon, or try to see.
Birds in tucson Arizona
Cute, very noticeable & fun!
- Hummingbirds – Tucson is a hummingbird haven. Over 15 species migrate through the region. Others are permanent residents.
- Cactus Wren – Arizona’s state bird. It often nests inside saguaros, into openings created by Gila woodpeckers. They're be scratching around the desert floor.
- Vermilion Flycatcher – The brilliant red songbird seen around town, and in Riparian Zones.
- Greater roadrunner – The iconic desert sprinter often spotted darting across roadways & through neighborhoods. Keep your eyes open for them crossing a road when driving through town!
I snapped this pic while sitting inside by a window in a local restaurant. He came onto their outdoor patio!Wildlife in Tucson Arizona With Venom
These all seem like they may be scary. But use common sense & caution and you'll have no worries.
Reptiles and an Amphibian in Tucson
You may be startled if you come upon these types of wildlife in Tucson Arizona!
- Diamondback Rattlesnake – Definitely venomous. But it tries avoiding humans. We've encountered several, they normally warn you. (Hear It Now>)So you'll back away slowly and leave them alone!
- Sonoran Desert Toads – Active during summer monsoon rains, when they dig out from underground to find a mate. They need water for its eggs. Glands in its skin seep toxic ooze. After a summer rainstorm we Hear Them Calling Loudly!
- Gila Monster – It's one of only two venomous lizards in the world. It's protected, and not often seen. It's slow-moving and doesn't want confrontation.
You can't miss these if one comes along. I've only seen one in all my time in Tucson.Some Arachnids in Tucson
Remember the movie "Arachnophobia?"
The animals in Tucson you may be concerned with fit that category. And they won't be near as horrifying as that movie! Even though these also have venom.
- Tarantulas – If you encounter one while in Tucson it's most likely the Desert Blonde Tarantula. According to the University of Arizona, they're nocturnal, and live in burrows underground. The hairs on their underside hold venom, which they shoot out if threatened. Don't bother them & you'll be fine.
- Scorpions – According to Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum's S.J. Prchal, three species live in Tucson. The one with the reputation is the Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus). It's small, but its venom packs a punch! The others are: stripe tailed scorpion & giant hairy scorpion.
No, not good quality picture I know. I opened the shower door to see this Bark Scorpion crawling up the wall. Took a photo while shuddering! Hubby came & took it away!Four-Legged Mammals Found around Tucson AZ
Two of these you'll have the best chance of seeing in the wild. Not the deer, I've only ever seen one in Saguaro National Park West - one time.
- Collared Peccary – Commonly called Javelina (the "J" has the "h" sound). You might think it's a thin wild pig. According to the Desert Museum, they did have a common ancient ancestor. But they're in different families. Javelina travel in groups, always on the hunt for food.
- Mule deer – Common in open desert areas, grassland and canyons. They're smaller than white-tailed deer, but have larger ears.
- Coyotes – Their yipping calls pierce the night's silence. You may see a lone one on the roadside in desert areas. Or even in a neighborhood.
Yeah again not the best photography from me. Coyotes are always quick. I snapped this one out of our window when we lived in the Picture Rocks area.Harmless Reptiles in Tucson AZ
You won't have any trouble seeing these guys. If you're sitting in any area with plants around, one is surely bound to appear. We have speedy Ornate Tree Lizards climbing around our backyard walls all the time!
- Ornate Tree Lizard – Urosaurus ornatus is the most common in Tucson. Likes being on tree branches, but also regularly seen on walls.
- Tiger Whiptail – Very energetic, looking through ground debris. This one can't climb.
- Desert spiny lizards – It's noticeably large. It likes bushy plants, plus hides in rock or wood piles.
Hubby Bill took this pic, our back patio. Had to get it quickly before it zipped away!We think it's the Spiny. One reason is because it was quite large - almost 1ft/31cm long.
Large Predators Around Tucson
Not likely you'll see these, and probably hopefully not! But they can be seen a our zoo and at the Desert Museum.
- Mountain Lions: Elusive predators occasionally seen near foothills or on rural properties.
- Black Bears: An omnivore, it's on the hunt for food and water. In dry years a few may come down from the local mountains into foothill neighborhoods.
- Bobcats: They look so cute! But don't try to pet one. They're the most likely to be seen when roaming through the desert.
Best Places to See Wildlife in Tucson
Different habitats offer different animal viewing possibilities.
- Local trails and desert preserves or parks like Sabino Canyon provide opportunities.
- Along the Rillito River Path it's excellent for spotting lizards and soaring hawks.
An experience at the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum brings you up safely up close to the wildlife in Tucson Arizona that we've shown you here.
Scientific name: Canis lupus spp. Baileyi. Distinct among Gray Wolves. Now endangered. Was reintroduced into Apache National Forest, Eastern Arizona. Fish/Game are evaluating other local mountains for release. You can see them at the Desert Museum, as we did.SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK
Best with morning and sunset hikes. The timing for animals to begin moving about. Although roadrunners can be seen anytime, anywhere!
- It's best for trying to see owls, rattlesnakes, deer and javelina.
SABINO CANYON
- Best for birdwatching, as about 200 species have been documented.
- That includes hummingbirds, flycatchers, and woodpeckers.
- Mammals such as coatis and big-horn sheep are possible.
SWEETWATER PRESERVE
Best for: cactus pygmy owl, reptiles, desert tortoise, and Gila monster.
When and How to Spot Wildlife
- Best times: Get up early or be ready as the sun lowers. Dawn and dusk are when animals get active. They're avoiding the midday heat.
- Seasons: Spring means birds are nesting birds. The summer monsoons awaken local amphibians. Winter is the best for people in search to be out and about.
- Gear: We recommend having binoculars, a camera, a hat to keep the strong sun at bay, and of course a good water container for hydration.
- General Tips: Staying on trails will help with your safety. Walk quietly for minimal animal disturbance. And be aware of your surroundings.
Safety Tips
and Myths About Desert Wildlife
Many visitors worry about snakes and scorpions. The truth: encounters are rare.
- Rattlesnakes: Most prefer to avoid humans. Keep aware & watch the trail ahead. Give them space, and you’ll be safe.
- Scorpions: Even less likely to see them, as they hide in the daytime. They like moist, private places. Like under large rocks or in caves.
- Gila Monsters: They're a wonderful protected species. Never touch or disturb one if you get that rare treat of coming upon one.
- Coyotes & Javelina: Usually not dangerous, but don't approach them to keep it that way. They're always after food, so keep any of your food secured.
- General rule: Observe from a distance, wear closed-toe shoes on trails, and hike with awareness.
Local residents often go decades without close encounters, so enjoy the desert with confidence.
Fascinating Facts for Wildlife
in Tucson Arizona
- Roadrunners can run up to 20 mph and occasionally prey on small rattlesnakes.
- Tucson has one of the highest numbers of hummingbird species in the U.S.
- Desert tortoises can survive a year on stored water from a single good rain.
Planning Your Wildlife Adventure
Tucson offers both self-guided and guided options.
- Guided tours: local outfitters and nature centers provide expert-led walks.
- Family-friendly spots: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum combines a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum.
- Wildlife rescue: Tucson Wildlife Center cares for injured animals and offers educational outreach.
FAQs About Wildlife in Tucson AZ
Are there rattlesnakes in Tucson?
Are there rattlesnakes in Tucson?
Yes, but they are rarely encountered on city streets.
Most are seen on desert trails. If they encounter a person, rattlesnakes usually warn you. Slowly retreat to give them space if you hear that telltale rattling! Stay on marked paths and keep your eyes open.
What animals should I watch for in Tucson?
What animals should I watch for in Tucson?
The most common sightings include roadrunners, hummingbirds, lizards, javelina, coyotes, and hawks.
There's a chance you could spot bobcats or even mountain lions in the foothills. But not very likely.
When is the best time to see wildlife in Tucson?
When is the best time to see wildlife in Tucson?
Early mornings and evenings are best, when they're avoiding the strong sunlight and/or heat. Summer monsoons trigger activity from toads and desert reptiles.
Is Tucson safe from dangerous wildlife?
Is Tucson safe from dangerous wildlife?
Yes. Most animals avoid humans. Following simple rules:
- Wear closed shoes when outdoors in desert terrain.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t feed any wildlife you encounter.
- Keep a good distance from those you see.
Use common sense to make any wildlife encounters in Tucson Arizona be fun, safe and enjoyable.
Can I see a jaguar in Tucson?
Can I see a jaguar in Tucson?
Not likely.
Jaguars occasionally roam southern Arizona, in the Chiricahua, Huachuca, and Whetstone Mountains. Yet these sightings are quite rare. To hear about their video capture on a motion-activated trail camera symbolizes the wildness of the region. But it's not a realistic tourist encounter.
The Jaguars are "a threatened population" according to Susan Malusa, director of the University of Arizona Wild Cat Research and Conservation Center. You can see a jaguar at Tucson's Reid Park Zoo, though.
Takeaways for Wildlife in Tucson Arizona
You'll enjoy encounters with our mild-mannered animals, like the roadrunner. Who may zoom right by you, or run across the road in front of your vehicle.
Use common sense when facing venomous creatures, like rattlesnakes, scorpions, or Gila monsters. Remember they don't want your close-up attention, just as you don't want theirs!
Learn more about our wide variety of Sonoran Desert animals to have the best fun seeing them. Knowing where to go, the best timing, and safety measures will add more to your fun.
And finally, seeing the animals at the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum (or the Reid Park Zoo) will ensure you getting to see them, and for sure be safe while doing that.