7 Unusual Animals You Might Spot in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA

The Grand Canyon is famed for its stunning rock formations and panoramic views, hiding its extraordinary wildlife from the limelight. Especially the rarer sightings! If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of one of the following unusual inhabitants that call the Grand Canyon their home.

#1 California Condor: The Canyon Goth

California Condor, Grand Canyon National Park. Pavel Špindler, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Among North America’s rarest birds, the California Condor stands out for its sheer size, 9.5-foot wingspan and endangered status. They are most commonly seen soaring gracefully on the warm air rising from the canyon on a summer afternoon. You may see them perched on the Navajo Bridge on Highway 89A on the East Rim, Plateau Point off the Bright Angel Trail in the inner canyon, or Lookout Studio or Hopi Point on the South Rim. Annually, pairs of condors build their nests at the canyon. If you’re extra lucky, you might be able to see these nests. Find out about current condor nests or sightings by visiting the park’s Visitor Center.

#2 Desert Bighorn Sheep: Masters of the Terrain

Close up of desert bighorn sheep. Image by Elijah Pilchard via Pexels

Desert Bighorn Sheep are some of Grand Canyon’s most impressive athletes. With their impressive, curved horns and sure-footed agility, these sheep navigate vertical cliffs and knife-thin ledges with ease. Even balancing up to 30 lbs on top of their heads! While their population is declining due to environmental challenges, they can be observed throughout the year. Visitors often spot them in the early morning and evening on steep terrain or cliffs throughout the park.

#3 Grand Canyon Rattlesnake: A Pink Gem

Typically characterized by its pink in hue, The Grand Canyon Rattlesnake is unique to the Grand Canyon and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. They’re often seen mostly inland from Lees Ferry to the area around National Canyon. Despite the danger, spotting this snake can be an exciting highlight for those who appreciate the park’s more secretive residents. Just remember their poisonous bite and elusive nature means they’re best observed from a safe distance.

#4 Gila Monster: A Rare Encounter

Gila Monster, Arizona. Josh Olander, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Gila Monster is a striking venomous lizard with vibrant colors and a beaded texture. They are one of only two venomous lizards in the world. Although instead of using their poisonous saliva for hunting, they use it for defense. Despite their intimidating appearance, Gilas are usually docile. They only bite when threatened. You can spot them in the desert areas at the far western edge of the Grand Canyon National Park.

#5 Elf Owl: Tiny but Mighty

Elf owl on branch. Dominic Sherony, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Elf Owl, the smallest owl in North America, is a charming yet elusive bird. It nests in cavities left by woodpeckers. Posing a real challenge for bird watchers. Despite its small size, the Elf Owl is a formidable predator in its own right. Many elf owls migrate south to Mexico for the winter so you’re more likely to see them during summer time.The best opportunity to observe an owl is during the sunset ground tour of the Grand Canyon, as these magnificent birds are active at sunset and night.

#6 Ringtail Cat: A Nocturnal Mystery

Ringtail cat on rock. Brooke Smith, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This small mammal also known as a miner’s cat, or bassarisk is Arizona’s state mammal. Ringtail cats are a common, although rarely-seen member of Grand Canyon’s fauna. With its striking ringed tail and large and expressive eyes, the ringtail cat is the nocturnal marvel of the Grand Canyon. Like most sleepless college students they are often mistaken for raccoons. This is due to their small, slender shape. Spotting a ringtail cat requires patience and a bit of luck, but it is a rewarding experience of park nightlife.

#7 Peregrine Falcon: Canyon Speedster

Peregrine Falcon flying. Image by Mathew Schwartz via Unsplash

Renowned as the fastest bird on Earth, the Peregrine Falcon offers an awe-inspiring display of speed and agility. These remarkable birds can dive at speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour to capture their prey. Watching a Peregrine Falcon soar through the canyon’s skies is an unforgettable experience, showcasing nature’s incredible power and precision. You are more likely to spot them in spring and early summer especially near Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trails. Also be sure to look for their nests in the canyon walls.

The Grand Canyon’s Wildlife Wonders

More than just a geological wonder; the Grand Canyon has a vibrant ecosystem teeming with fascinating wildlife. From the elusive California Condor to the speedy Peregrine Falcon, the park offers numerous opportunities to witness rare and unusual animals. Each sighting is a reminder of the diverse life that thrives in the Grand Canyon’s natural wonder. The true wonder is why you’re still reading instead of packing for the trip there!