Cottontail rabbits are more specialized in their habitat requirements, but are generally scattered throughout the NRA in middle to high elevations. The interesting little kit fox is a protected species. Other furbearers include gray fox, spotted and striped skunks, racoon, and along the Colorado River, muskrat and beaver. A great variety of rodents exist within the Needles Resource Area. Ground squirrels of several species, and a chipmunk in certain higher areas, are probably the most noticeable since they can be seen during daylight hours.
Many species are nocturnal to escape the high daytime temperatures.
Large houses of woodrats are frequently seen. The roadrunner is a unique and picturesque bird of our area. Additionally, various rattlesnakes inhabit the area, of which the sidewinder is unique. Other non-poisonous species of snakes are also present. The federally listed threatened desert tortoise is wide ranging within the NRA with most populations being stable.