Reptiles and Amphibians

The Chiricahua Mountains and surrounding area are a mecca for reptiles and amphibians. Herpetologists regularly visit the area for a chance to observe some of the more secretive species such as the twin-spotted rattlesnake, Arizona mountain kingsnake, green rat snake, and the banded rock rattlesnake. Summer night drives can lead to sightings of the  common species like the gopher snake, longnose snake, black-tailed and western diamondback rattlesnakes, night snakes and more!

Please do not collect native reptiles and amphibians. Leave them in their natural habitat for others to enjoy!

Reptile and Amphibian Links:

Arizona Game and Fish 

Tucson Herpetological Society 

An abundance of lizards can been seen in the area. The most commonly encountered are the Sonoran spotted whiptail, banded gecko, ornate tree lizard and the Yarrow's mountain spiny lizard. The venomous gila monster is also native to the area but rarely seen.

The desert box turtle is the most frequently encountered turtle in our area. This terrestrial turtle is often seen on the Quailway property making its appearance after a warm rain. 

Amphibians remain underground most of the year but will come out during rainy evenings. Western green toads, red-spotted toads, spadefoot and the Sonoran desert toad are frequently encountered or heard singing on rainy nights.

Canyon tree frogs can be seen in the woodlands of the Chiricahuas and a small population of the endangered Chiricahua leopard frog can found at the pond at Cave Creek Ranch.