Because of Utah’s diverse climate and terrain, a wide variety of wildlife species can be readily seen with little effort! Over 600 species of mammals, birds, fishes, reptiles, and amphibians that make their homes in Utah.
The Best Wildlife Watching
Rock Cliff, Jordanelle State Park (near Park City): More than 160 species of birds, both resident and migratory, are found here. The park is an especially good place to spot eagles and other raptors that nest locally. Boardwalks and trails traverse the riparian wetlands, giving you a chance to observe wetlands life while reducing your ecological footprint.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park (near Kanab): If you climb the dunes early in the morning, you’re sure to see the footprints of jackrabbits, kangaroo rats, and the occasional muledeer or coyote. But the park is also a habitat for scorpions and fascinating but poisonous (and sometimes bioluminescent) arachnids that often prey on each other. Of course, humans aren’t their natural targets, but it’s always best to keep your distance.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: Take to the water to vie for a glimpse of the majestic bighorn sheep. The imposing beasts are sometimes seen on Kingfisher Island and near Hideout Canyon, on the north side of the reservoir, in spring and early summer. And keep your eyes peeled for the lovely osprey and rare peregrine falcon, occasionally spotted near their nests on the high rocky spires above the lake.
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park (Escalante): Willows and cottonwoods line the banks of the reservoir, one of the few wetlands birding sites in southern Utah. The park is home to a wide variety of ducks, plus coots, herons, and swallows. You might also see eagles, osprey, American kestrels, and other raptors. Small creatures of the furry variety — including cottontail and blacktail jackrabbits, squirrels, and beaver — inhabit the area as well
Bird Watching
Take part in spotting all species of birds in Utah Valley! Some of the best locations include:
- Bicentennial Park, the Botany Pond on BYU Campus and Rock Canyon in Provo
- Camelot Woods, Lincoln Beach and the Airport Dike at Utah Lake
- Allred’s Pond in Lehi
- Anderson Park in Pleasant Grove
- Salem Pond and Springville Industrial Park
- All canyons in Utah Valley
Some of the Utah Valley birds consist of Black-necked Stilt, Northern Pygmy Owl, Cassin’s Finch, Lewis’ Woodpecker, Flammulated Owl and many more! A few of the rare bird sightings included the White Ibis, American Black Duck and Anna’s Hummingbird. Don’t miss the incredible snow goose migration, which usually takes place in late February through early March in the Utah Valley.
