Bighorn Sheep in the Grand Canyon

Desert bighorn sheep are nimble-footed and inhabit terrain that is rocky and steep. You may see them along the rim of the Grand Canyon.

Author:: Staff
Publish date:: Mar 4, 2009
Updated on: Jul 5, 2017

High on most national park visitors' wish list when vacationing to a national park in the Western U. S. is wildlife viewing.

While Grand Canyon National Park is not exactly famous for its wildlife viewing opportunities, there are some wild animals here that visitors might see.

Learn a little about the desert bighorn sheep.

Desert bighorn sheep
These are stocky sheep that are similar in size to the mule deer. They are nimble-footed and inhabit terrain that is rocky and steep. The color of the animal's coat makes it difficult to spot while hiking in or floating through the Grand Canyon, but they are here.

What Does a Desert Bighorn Sheep look like?

Wildlife

Though tough to spot against the multicolored backdrop of Arizona's dry desert, coyotes are an important part of Grand Canyon's natural ecosystem.

Wildlife

This is desert country, which means visitors will often hear the howls of coyotes during the night while vacationing to the Grand Canyon region.

Wildlife

Commonly identified by their large ears and black tipped tails, Mule Deer are the most visible large mammal in Grand Canyon National Park.

Wildlife

A brief overview of some of the furry rodentds that visitors may see while exploring the Grand Canyon, from large beaver to tiny pocket mice.

Tagged California Condors in the Grand Canyon.

Wildlife

California Condors can be seen soaring in the skies near Grand Canyon's South Rim as well as around the Vermilion Cliffs area. See our top 5 spots for condor watching here.

Wildlife

Mountain lions are common within Grand Canyon National Park, but visitors rarely see them since they tend to blend in and do not actively approach people.

Wildlife

There are approximately 47 species of reptiles, including lizards and snakes, in the national park.

Wildlife

We don't want to scare you, but the Grand Canyon is crawling with bugs, snakes and scorpions. Knowing what to do if you get bitten can help save your life