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Guadalupe Mountains National ParkManzanita Spring is a desirable watering hole for park wildlife.
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Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Reptiles
 
Western Diamondback rattlesnakes are one of 5 species of rattlers found in the park.
NPS Photo - Cookie Ballou
A coiled Western Diamondback rattler patiently waits for suitable prey to pass by.
 
Many people restrict the term wildlife for animals that have fur or feathers. By doing so, they overlook some of the animals best adapted to the desert and most likely to be seen. When the mind conjures images of the desert, lizards basking on rocks, or rattlesnakes coiled at the base of shrubs are often part of that picture. These archetypal images are only part of the story. As you explore the park and discover how different it is from desert expanses that surround it, you will find reptiles displaying fascinating behaviors and a beautiful array of patterns and forms worthy of the attention of any wildlife lover.
Western Box Turtle
Park Reptiles and Amphibians
More than 50 species are known to occur in the park.
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Flowers of the desert willow are perfectly formed for the fat, rounded bodies of bees.  

Did You Know?
The long narrow leaves of the desert willow (Chilopsis linearis) gives it its common name, but it is not a true willow. It is beautiful when in bloom, and provides valuable nectar for hummingbirds, butterflies, bees and other insects.

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Last Updated: November 01, 2007 at 11:22 EST