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City of Rocks National Reserve Granite Mtn Ridge
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City of Rocks National Reserve
Animals

One of the reserve's most notable qualities is its large degree of biological diversity concentrated in a relatively small area. Located in the Northern Basin and Range province, the habitat of the reserve supports a large variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates.

At first glance, City of Rocks would appear to be a tough place for wildlife to survive. Diverse habitats at various elevations lead to an area bursting with wildlife. It goes without saying that animals at City of Rocks are equipped with special adaptations to survive extreme conditions. During summer, most fauna are active at night, thereby escaping the often hot, dry days. Winter forces wildlife to migrate to better environments or to hibernate. To see as many different types as possible, include the following habitats in your search: pinyon-juniper-mahogany forest, aspen-riparian areas, sagebrush flats, and spruce-firpine forest above 7,000 feet.  

 
Mule Deer

Mule Deer

Mammals

Most visitors to City of Rocks will observe mule deer, mountain cottontail, blacktail jack rabbit,yellow-bellied marmot and golden-mantled and least chipmunks. Also documented within the reserve are the more elusive mountain lion, bobcat, coyote, moose, and elk. All documented mammals are included in the Reserve's Wildlife Checklist.

 
Red-naped Sapsucker

Red-naped Sapsucker

Birds

The high desert ecosystem and rocky cliffs of the reserve provide an excellent habitat for many birds. Within City of Rocks and Almo Valley, 142 species of birds have been documented, and are included on the reserve's bird checklist. See birding hotspots for details about the best areas to view the reserve's bird species.

 
Rattle Snake

Western Rattlesnake (Great Basin Rattlesnake)

Reptiles

Common lizard species, found at the reserve, include the Western Whiptail, Western Fence Lizard, Long-nosed Leopard Lizard, Sagebrush Lizard, and Northern Desert Horned Lizard. Snakes include the Rubber Boa, Western Rattlesnake, Great Basin Gopher Snake, Striped Whipsnake, and Wandering Garter Snake.

Herpetological Survey

 

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Classic view of the upper City of Rocks

Did You Know?
Unique granite formations, some over 3 billion years old and towering as high as 600 feet, provide breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities in City of Rocks National Reserve.

Last Updated: January 11, 2012 at 09:48 MST