Reservations
Take a Walk on the WILD Side
Mesa Verde is more than a window into the past—it’s a living, breathing landscape filled with natural wonder. From mule deer and coyotes to mountain lions, bats, and countless birds and invertebrates, the park’s diverse habitats are alive with wildlife. Keep your eyes open—Mesa Verde’s wild residents roam freely, just as they have for centuries.
The Species that Roam the Park
Mesa Verde National Park is home to over 200 species of birds, 16 species of reptiles, 5 species of amphibians, 6 species of fishes, and over 1,000 species of insects and other invertebrates. It’s exciting to observe wildlife, but please remember to respect their space – this is their home. Never feed, touch, or approach wildlife.
Mule Deer
Mule deer are very common in the park, and it is quite normal to spot them nightly from the lodge balcony.
Black Bear
Black bears inhabit Mesa Verde, and you may encounter one on a trail. Be Bear Aware: Read the latest bear safety information from theNational Park Service.
Wild Turkeys
Evidence has shown that domesticated turkeys were part of the Ancestral Pueblo people's diet and wild turkeys were reintroduced to the area in the 1990s.
Mexican Spotted Owl & Other Birds
The Mexican Spotted Owl—one of the largest and rarest owl species—is a breathtaking sight and a federally listed endangered species. Spotting one in Mesa Verde is nothing short of magical.