Wildlife Viewing

There are many types of animals at Petrified Forest, including amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles.

Plan Around Wildlife Viewing

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Wildlife Viewing Details

There are many types of animals at Petrified Forest, including amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles. Birds, lizards and rabbits are the most frequently seen residents, but bigger species such as coyotes, gray foxes, bobcats and mule deer live in the park as well. Seasons and weather play the largest role when it comes to what visitors might see. Many animals are active at dawn and dusk, and snakes and lizards are diurnal (active during the day) in late spring and fall, but largely inactive during the heat of the day during summer. Many of the park's residents are nocturnal in order to avoid hot summer days as well as certain predators. Guests will have the most luck at wildlife spotting early in the morning and into the dusk. In order to protect wildlife, please observe the park's posted speed limit and refrain from feeding the animals.

Difficulty

Open

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Activities