Wildlife in Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is a spectacular destination for wildlife lovers. Located in south-central Utah's red rock country, the park offers a diverse range of habitats and activities ideal for animals and humans. From soaring raptors to swift lizards and burrowing mammals, Capitol Reef is home to an amazing array of species.

The Canyon Treefrog is another fascinating species found in Capitol Reef. These elusive amphibians can be found in serene pools with rocky bottoms, creating a peaceful sanctuary within the Waterpocket Fold and at the southern boundary of Halls Creek Park. With their remarkable camouflage and distinctive toe pads, these tiny frogs come in stunning patterns, from bold blotches to subtle spots. Don't miss the chance to observe these fascinating creatures in the picturesque landscapes of southwest Utah.

The desert bighorn sheep, native to Utah, can be found in the rocky areas of desert mountain ranges in the southwestern US. It was once abundant in southern Utah's canyon country and is often depicted in ancient rock markings. Unfortunately, the sheep disappeared from the Capitol Reef area, most likely due to overhunting and disease. To restore the population, 40 desert bighorn sheep were reintroduced from Canyonlands National Park in the mid-1990s. Today, these majestic creatures are commonly spotted in areas south and east of Fruita, including Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge. There is also a separate herd at the southern end of the park. The sheep utilize the cliffs and rugged terrain to evade predators. During the summer, they feed on grasses; in winter, they rely on woody plants for sustenance. These remarkable animals are mainly active during the day, with their peak activity occurring in the early morning and late evening.

The American beaver is a common sight in streams, ponds, and small lakes across North America, including Capitol Reef. They are best known for their skill in tree-cutting to build dams, creating large ponds. These industrious creatures also construct lodges made of sticks and mud near the ponds, serving as shelters and food storage areas for themselves and their young. However, along the Fremont River in Capitol Reef, beavers have a unique habit of building dens in the river bank instead of dams and lodges. This may be due to the high flow rate of the river and the potential risk of flash floods that could undo their construction work. Beavers primarily feed on bark, roots, and aquatic and riparian vegetation. While sightings of beavers in Capitol Reef are rare, you can still spot evidence of their presence along the river banks through tracks and chewed or fallen trees.

Peregrine falcons are incredibly widespread, found on every continent except Antarctica. They're known for embarking on one of the longest migrations of any North American bird, traveling from the Canadian tundra to South America and back annually. While these falcons are rare in the park, they can sometimes be spotted nesting on cliff ledges. Unfortunately, their population was severely impacted by the use of DDT between the 1940s and 1970s. Thankfully, a ban on DDT and reintroductions led to a remarkable recovery, resulting in their removal from the endangered species list in 1999. Known for their impressive hunting skills, peregrine falcons soar high in the air or perch on a ledge before attacking their prey mid-flight at astonishing speeds surpassing 200 mph. With their sleek bodies, pointed wings, short tails, and distinctive dark mustaches, they truly are the fastest birds in the world. The park is also home to the prairie falcon, a similar species that can be identified by its browner coloration and dark patches where the wings meet the underside of its body.

Discover the enchanting world of Mexican spotted owls in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and northern Mexico. These magnificent creatures have been classified as threatened since 1993, facing habitat loss and fragmentation challenges. They often reside exclusively in deep, narrow canyons within the park. While they primarily prey on rodents like woodrats, mice, and voles, they also indulge in a diverse diet including bats, birds, reptiles, and arthropods. Their unique nesting habits range from cliff ledges and caves to stick nests built by other birds, debris platforms in trees, and tree cavities. Expect small clutch sizes, typically one to three eggs, with two being the most common. Remember, it's best to keep a respectful distance if you encounter one of these owls during your park exploration.