Last updated: July 19, 2025
Place
Living in Extremes
Living in Extremes
Lava Beds National Monument is a refuge for a variety of species that live together in few other places on earth. Visit in the parching heat of summer or the blustery cold of winter and you may wonder how any animal could survive in this rugged volcanic terrain. But with patience and luck, it is possible to spot a wide variety of animals that do not merely subsist here, but make a comfortable home in this land of extremes. These animals are specially suited to the unique range of habitats here, and they depend on this protected environment for their survival.
Predators
Predators such as mountain lions, coyotes, great horned owls, and red-tailed hawks benefit from the abundant smaller animals that thrive in this volcanic landscape.
Lava Caves
Lava Beds caves are home to many species that live in darkness, from insects and spiders to snakes and bats. Bats are sensitive to noise, so if you see one, leave the area quietly.
Cool Places
These animals often take advantage of cool areas in cave entrances and collapsed tubes to regulate their body temperatures. Pikas could not live here without volcanic features!
Above Ground
Grasses, shrubs, and trees that grow in this environment provide food and shelter for a diversity of mammals and birds.
Lava Beds National Monument is a refuge for a variety of species that live together in few other places on earth. Visit in the parching heat of summer or the blustery cold of winter and you may wonder how any animal could survive in this rugged volcanic terrain. But with patience and luck, it is possible to spot a wide variety of animals that do not merely subsist here, but make a comfortable home in this land of extremes. These animals are specially suited to the unique range of habitats here, and they depend on this protected environment for their survival.
Predators
Predators such as mountain lions, coyotes, great horned owls, and red-tailed hawks benefit from the abundant smaller animals that thrive in this volcanic landscape.
Lava Caves
Lava Beds caves are home to many species that live in darkness, from insects and spiders to snakes and bats. Bats are sensitive to noise, so if you see one, leave the area quietly.
Cool Places
These animals often take advantage of cool areas in cave entrances and collapsed tubes to regulate their body temperatures. Pikas could not live here without volcanic features!
Above Ground
Grasses, shrubs, and trees that grow in this environment provide food and shelter for a diversity of mammals and birds.