Colorado National Monument's varied terrain attracts many animals to live, nest, or hunt within its boundaries. Among mammals, the mule deer are the largest commonly sighted by visitors. However, coyotes, mountain lions, lizards, and desert bighorn sheep are also occasionally seen. Smaller mammals, like grey foxes, desert cottontails, rock squirrels, and Hopi chipmunks, are often seen scampering off the sides of the Rim Rock Drive or hiking trails. Reptiles and Amphibians. Reptiles are generally seen in the monument from early March to late October. They are most visible in May and June, and are active on warm, sunny days and mild evenings. Watch for yellow-headed collared lizards or the plateau striped whiptail, especially during late morning or late afternoon hours; they are often seen sunning themselves on the warm rocks. Snakes do exist in the monument, but only one, the rarely seen midget-faded rattlesnake, is venomous.
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