Collared lizard in McInnis Canyons. Photo by Bobby & Mardi Evans.Western canyons and mesas
The Grand Mesa near Grand Junction is outstanding for deer, elk, raptors, small mammals and songbirds.
Hike the Crag Crest Trail for terrific scenic views and the chance to see golden eagles, ravens, dusky grouse, marmots and other species.
Never seen a peregrine falcon? Try the Colorado National Monument and keep an eye on the canyon airspace. Several pairs of falcons have aeries on the sheer cliffs, and you may see a falcon knock one of the many white-throated swifts or violet-green swallows from the air.
The many canyons that cut the rugged landscape of the Colorado Plateau are home to desert bighorn, black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, eagles and all kinds of swallows, jays, hummingbirds, canyon wrens and other songbirds. Check out Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Mesa Verde national parks and, if you're up for a backcountry outing, the new Dominguez Canyon Wilderness and McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. Their trails will take you into rugged country for views of creatures truly in their wild habitat.
Dry desert and canyon country are especially good for reptiles and amphibians. Watch for the surprisingly large and green collared lizards, longnose leopard lizards, skinks and plateau lizards sunning themselves on rocks in the morning. Around canyon bottom streams and pools you may see canyon treefrogs or red-spotted toads. Check still pools and puddles for tadpoles, including some that may have sprouted legs.
Wherever you venture in Colorado this summer, don't just look at the scenery. Keep an eye out for wildlife — there's plenty to watch for!
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