Animals

The wildlife of the Colorado Plateau desert have developed unique adaptations to the arid conditions of their environment and are a part of the rich diversity of life in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Rainbow Bridge National Monument. Wildlife in Glen Canyon is a reflection of the Colorado Plateau, changes in land use, and changes in the environment caused by the completion of Glen Canyon Dam in 1963 and subsequent filling of Lake Powell. In addition to playing vital roles in the desert ecosystem and animal communities, wildlife also provides recreational opportunities such as bird watching and fishing.

 
Collared lizard clings to rock
Reptiles

Learn about cold-blooded critters that love Glen Canyon's hot climate

A skinny-legged willet stands at pond's edge
Birds

Over 300 bird species live in or migrate through Glen Canyon.

Pair of toads in water
Amphibians

A handful of toad, frog, and salamanders species call Glen Canyon home.

Dark fish swims in clear water
Fish

Lake Powell has a complicated history of mixing native and nonnative fish species.

Bighorn sheep on grassy ledge with slickrock in background
Mammals

From tiny bats to big horns

 

Spotlight on these special critters

 

NPSpecies Database

 

Select a Park:

Select a Species Category (optional):

List Differences

Search results will be displayed here.


Visit NPSpecies for more comprehensive information and advanced search capability. Have a suggestion or comment on this list? Let us know.

Last updated: February 6, 2020

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 1507
Page, AZ 86040

Phone:

928 608-6200
Receptionist available at Glen Canyon Headquarters from 7 am to 4 pm MST, Monday through Friday. The phone is not monitored when the building is closed. If you are having an emergency, call 911 or hail National Park Service on Marine Band 16.

Contact Us