Wildlife in Flagstaff, AZ

Wildlife in Flagstaff, AZ

The Coconino National Forest stretches over 1.8 million acres of diverse landscapes, from red rocks to ponderosa pine forests. Nestled within the forest and wetland regions of the Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff is home to several types of wildlife.

Animals in Flagstaff

Many animals roam the Flagstaff area, from large elk and black bears to small porcupines and coyotes. While most are active around dawn and dusk, you are sure to catch sight of various creatures during the daytime as you respect their space.

Birds

If you are a birdwatching enthusiast, Flagstaff is the place to visit. The Coconino National Forest hosts over 300 species of birds, with many living within the forests or marshes surrounding Flagstaff. Several species migrate between the lower and higher elevations of the Coconino National Forest throughout the year, so depending on when you visit, you may catch glimpses of certain birds in Flagstaff.

 A few birds you may see include:

  • Bald eagles
  • Red-tailed hawks
  • Ravens
  • Hairy woodpeckers
  • Northern goshawks
  • Mexican spotted owls
  • Peregrine falcons
  • Wild turkeys
  • Pygmy nuthatches

Elk, Deer and Pronghorns

There are elk in Flagstaff, Arizona, as well as mule deer and pronghorns. You will most likely catch sight of these animals around lakes such as Rogers Lake or on one of the hundreds of trails throughout the area. Take a drive around Mormon Lake at sunset to see the elk in the water, or scan the nearby grasslands to see the pronghorns grazing.

Small Mammals

The lakes, forests and grasslands surrounding Flagstaff are home to a wide variety of creatures. Viewing opportunities include:

  • Porcupines
  • Foxes
  • Abert's squirrels
  • Skunks
  • Raccoons
  • Prairie dogs

Wetlands and lakes such as Rogers Lake or the Pumphouse County Natural Area attract these smaller animals, though you may also see many of them up in the forests. While hiking, look up through the ponderosa pines to see a bark-loving porcupine, a snoozing gray fox or a rambunctious Abert's squirrel. 

Large Mammals

Small critters aren't the only ones who take advantage of the lakes around Flagstaff. Coyotes, bobcats and black bears also frequent places like Rogers Lake and Mormon Lake. You may catch a glimpse of these larger animals while hiking in the backcountry, so be sure to practice safe habits of keeping a distance and respecting their space.

See Flagstaff Wildlife for Yourself by Booking Your Stay Today

Enjoy the beauty of Northern Arizona's wildlife and landscapes when you stay at Flagstaff KOA Holiday. Our campgrounds offer convenient access to the outdoors, so reserve your campsite today to begin your adventure!

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