Ecology & Wildlife

The Canyons of the Escalante appear to be rather desolate, void of living, breathing creatures. But, the region actually hosts a wealth of animal life. Blacktailed jackrabbits, ravens and other birds, and a variety of small lizards are the most common animals encountered. Watch for collared lizards, which are very patient and offer unusual photo opportunities.

Large mammals, such as mule deer, beaver, and coyotes may be spotted occasionally. A small population of desert bighorn sheep inhabit the rugged canyons and slickrock mesas east of the river, but they are rarely seen.

While not frequently seen, scorpions and rattlesnakes are present. The best precautions against an unpleasant experience are to avoid reaching into piles of leaves or under logs or rocks and to check your boots and pack before putting them on each morning.

Wildflowers

Plant communities vary from pinyon-juniper woodlands in higher elevations to riparian zones where Fremont cottonwoods and willows predominate. In between are blackbrush/Indian rice grass, shadscale, and sagebrush communities. Among the most unique sights are the "hanging gardens" found clinging to sandstone walls where seeps provide plentiful water. Delicate maidenhair fern is the most common plant found here.

Springtime presents delightful opportunities to photograph and enjoy such wildflower species as the claret cup, cliffrose and Fremont barberry, while shooting stars, scarlet gilia and bearded beardtongue bloom through the summer.

The lush, green canyon bottoms are sustained by streams, springs and water that seeps through tiny fractures and cracks in the sandstone. Navajo sandstone, in particular, is known for its water-bearing capacities.