Although mule deer and rock squirrels are two mammals well adapted to Zion’s scorching summer temperatures, many other animals avoid the heat of the day altogether. A majority of the wildlife in Zion are nocturnal. By night, you may hear a coyote’s call, see the light quickly gleam in the eyes of a gray fox, or observe the nimble movements of a ringtail cat. Other charismatic animals, such as mountain lion, bobcat, porcupine, skunk, raccoon, badger, bats, and beaver are all active under the cover of darkness. The ringtail cat (a relative of the raccoon) is an abundant mammal in Zion. However, this small omnivore is rarely seen. They seldom emerge before total darkness. Using great skill and agility, they maneuver Zion’s high cliffs and balance on narrow ledges with the help of a long ringed tail.