NPS / A. Rossman Species like the western box turtle and the cactus wren utilize the grasslands and desert scrub, while the northern goshawk lives in the nearby old-growth pine forest. Black bear and whitetail deer wander throughout the mountain range utilizing a variety of habitat types. The banded rock rattlesnake prefers a more specialized habitat, such as rocky slopes and gravelly drainages. The unique geological formations of the park provide the vertical cliffs that turkey vultures need for nesting, while underground faults allow water to spring up in some areas, creating small wetlands for the tiger salamander. Mexican species at the northernmost edge of their range also occur here. Species like the white-nosed coati, Chiricahua fox squirrel, and the elegant trogon can be found in the sky-islands of southeastern Arizona, but are rarely seen elsewhere in the state or country. Migrating birds pass through the area on their way to and from wintering grounds in Mexico, Central and South America, while many bird species are “residents” at Chiricahua at various times of the year. Almost 200 species of birds have been documented in the area. The unique geology, geographic location, and diverse ecology of the park all play a role in its incredible animal diversity. In all, there are 71 species of mammals, 46 species of reptiles, 8 amphibians, 171 species of birds, and uncounted numbers of insects that regularly occur in the park. 
White-nosed coatis roam the park during the day. They are related to raccoons. So, maintain a safe distance and do not feed any wildlife!
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Last updated: October 18, 2026