Colorado Wild Animals

6 Minute Read

Mesa County is the fourth largest county in Colorado, by land mass, and is 76 percent public land, so wildlife has the benefit of roaming free without being nudged out by urban sprawl, like much of the state. Grand Junction is located in Mesa County and is populated with numerous unique wild species. From the iconic desert bighorn sheep scaling canyon walls to the well-camouflaged canyon tree frog tucked among the rocks, you are bound to spot wildlife in Grand Junction, particularly along the trails of the Colorado National Monument. When you go wildlife spotting, there are precautions to be aware of in order to keep yourself and the animals safe, while also protecting the environment. Check out what you need to know about seeing animals in Grand Junction and staying safe while doing so.

Where to See Animals in Grand Junction

While it is common to see wildlife within the city, you’ll increase your odds of an animal sighting by venturing slightly further into nature. Fortunately, you don’t have to go very far because Grand Junction is the intersection of many diverse ecosystems where countless species thrive. The winding Colorado River, multiple nearby state parks, dramatic canyons of Colorado National Monument and the alpine forests of the Grand Mesa—deer, moose, over 200 bird species, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, and elk thrive across these landscapes. There is even a moose herd on the Grand Mesa with a population of 300 - 400.

Head over to Colorado National Monument, less than 5 miles or 10 minutes from Downtown Grand Junction, and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most unique environments. This majestic landscape is part of the National Park Service (NPS) and is coined “The Heart of the World.” The sandstone canyons and semi-arid climate are the ideal setting for many species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals, including the regal desert bighorn sheep. Spring is a special time, as bighorn lambs begin to appear on canyon walls and along Rim Rock Drive. Visitors are encouraged to drive slowly and carefully, as these young lambs often stay close to the roadway while learning to navigate the rugged terrain beside their mothers. Depending on the time of year, you’re bound to see a number of birds and lizards along the Devil’s Kitchen Trail in the Colorado National Monument. This moderate hike takes only an hour to complete and leads you to a unique collection of towering rock formations known as “Devil’s Kitchen.” Another hike to consider in Colorado National Monument is the 11.5-mile Monument Canyon Trail, which is popular for its stunning views and desert bighorn sheep sightings. 

Photo by: Sharon Ruth Bradshaw

Located just outside of the James M. Robb Colorado State Park in Grand Junction, the Audubon Nature Preserve is a peaceful haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Sightings include osprey, eagles, foxes, herons, owls, deer, frogs, and fish. Continue along the Colorado Riverfront Trail from the Audubon Nature Preserve into the neighboring James M. Robb Colorado State Park for additional opportunities to see wildlife in their protected habitats.

Colorado Animals

Various species of deer, foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, rabbits, squirrels, reptiles, golden eagles, bald eagles, and songbirds thrive in Colorado’s diverse environments. From the rugged Rocky Mountains and the grassy plains to the dramatic canyons of Western Colorado, here are some of the most notable species that thrive in Grand Junction. To determine a safe distance from wildlife, make a thumbs-up, and place your thumb over the animal. The tip of your thumb should cover the animal completely. If that is not the case, it’s time to back up and give wildlife more space.

Desert Bighorn Sheep

Photo by: @ben.j.photo

Native to Western Colorado, the desert bighorn sheep is the cousin of Colorado’s state animal, the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. The regal mammal is adapted for dry environments (going days without water!) and is known for its large, curved horns. If you see one while hiking in the Colorado National Monument, make sure to give it space and observe from a distance. During spring adventures, fluffy babies often accompany the herds, adding an extra amount of cuteness to these majestic animals. 

Mule Deer

What has a black forehead, big ears, and is emblematic of the American West? The mule deer, of course. You’re likely to see herds of mule deer across Western Colorado, grazing on shrubs and other vegetation. Named for their oversized, mule-like ears, these iconic animals are well adapted to the high desert environment and are a common sight along canyon rims, open desert terrain, and even near roadways. Their powerful legs allow them to bound gracefully across rocky ground in a distinctive “stotting” motion, where all four hooves spring off the ground at once. Keep an eye out in the early morning or evening hours, when mule deer are most active, quietly browsing the landscape.

Golden Eagle 

Keep your eyes peeled for the golden eagle, whose impressive wingspan can spread up to seven feet. The acrobatic raptor soars through the sky hunting for small prey animals. They often build their nests on cliffs or in trees, so look to the canyons and treetops where they often nest. 

Bobcat 

The bobcat, or red lynx, lives across the state of Colorado, including Grand Junction. The medium-sized feline species is distinguished by its short stubby tail and spotted fur. They tend to live around trees and hunt for small prey animals, like rabbits and birds. Bobcats are not known to attack people; however, if one approaches you, make noises by yelling and clapping your hands and back away. At this point, they will likely move away as they are rather skittish around humans.

Eastern Collared Lizard

Also referred to as the “mountain boomer”, the Eastern collared lizard is easily recognized by its colorful spotted body, yellow head, and two black collars. You can find them sunbathing on the rocks in Colorado National Monument while hunting for insects. As with all wild animals, please do not touch them because these lizards can bite! They are not venomous, however.

Pinyon Jay 

You can catch a glimpse of the striking blue pinyon jay feasting on the seeds of a pinyon pine or sitting on the branches of a juniper tree. Aside from their blue plumage, these medium-sized birds are recognizable by their high-pitch squawk-like call.

Coyote 

The coyote is a highly adaptable species that has found a variety of ways to live near populated areas across North America. This canine animal is clever and has a distinctive howl. Coyotes are predators and while they tend to hunt for small wildlife, they can pose a danger to pets and humans. If you see a coyote close by, remain calm, keep eye contact and slowly back away while leaving the area. Do not turn and run, as you may trigger its predatory response, which could engage a chase. Blowing a whistle or yelling in an authoritative voice can scare them away.

Canyon Tree Frog 

You are more likely to hear this North American amphibian than see it. The canyon tree frog is a small, very well-camouflaged creature that lives in rocky environments. Listen for its croak in the evenings around Grand Junction.

Elk

The Uncompahgre Plateau is remote and vast, lush with aspen groves, ponderosa forests and red rock canyons. The diverse landscape abounds with herds of elk. Unit 61 is known as one of the best trophy bull elk areas in Colorado. Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests include populations of over 55,000 elk; 150,000 mule deer; 500 Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep; and 150 desert bighorn sheep. Canada lynx, black bear, pine marten (weasel family), mountain lion, and other small mammals thrive in this area as well.

Wildlife Safety Tips

When you encounter any wildlife in nature, it’s important to remember that you are in their home and should therefore treat them and their environment with respect. There are safety measures you should take while viewing wildlife responsibly. A scared or threatened animal—particularly if it’s a large mammal or predator species—can react aggressively and potentially cause harm to you or others. Here are some tips you should know and follow when heading out into the wilderness.

• Keep a safe and responsible distance; in fact, this is true for all Colorado wild animals. If you would like to see the animals up close, consider bringing a pair of binoculars with you.

• Familiarize yourself with local species’ mating seasons. Males tend to become aggressive during mating season, while females are highly protective of their young, so it’s important to give animals extra space during these times—no matter how cute the babies are!

• Store food properly. Make sure food is packed away in air tight containers while you’re in the wild and disposed of responsibly. Feeding wild animals—even accidentally—can break down the natural barriers that exist and put both humans and wildlife at risk.

• Use your zoom. Avoid the temptation of approaching wild animals for a better photo and instead activate your zoom feature. 

• If there are potential predators nearby, make your presence known. Talking loudly or bashing two sticks together while on a trail will tell mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, and other species to stay away. If you are hoping to spot other species, like birds, silence is recommended. 

• Practice Leave No Trace principles. This means staying on trails, disposing of trash properly, no vandalizing, and respecting wildlife. You can read more about the Leave No Trace philosophy here.

It’s no surprise that wildlife and nature enthusiasts flock to Grand Junction. The diversity of flora and fauna as well as the incredible hiking opportunities and jaw-dropping views make Western Colorado a truly unique place to visit.

Visit pages 16-17 of the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide for some of Grand Junction's best hikes & wildlife spotting opportunities.