When most people think of Grand Canyon National Park, they think of unbelievable views over one of the most incredible examples of erosion in the world. The canyon dives a mile deep with 278 miles of the Colorado River sitting below, offering adventurers remarkable hikes on both the north and south rims. Visitors don’t necessarily think of the park’s diverse animal population, but there’s plenty of wildlife for visitors to view in person.
Grand Canyon’s bighorn sheep population is among the largest and most genetically diverse naturally persisting populations of desert bighorn sheep. Their populations across the United States dramatically decreased with European colonization of the American Southwest, but conservation efforts have allowed the overall population trend to increased since 1960.
While bighorn sheep typically aren’t agressive, they will defend themselves if threatened like any wild animal. Visitors should always respect these animals and their space, giving wildlife the right of way. Throwing rocks to get them off a trail, like these hikers do, is never acceptable.
Grand Canyon National Park requires that tourists stay at least 100 feet away from wildlife like bighorn sheep, elk, bison, deer, mountain lions, and California condors at all times. If any kind of wildlife heads in your direction, back away and maintain a safe distance. Animals might not know better, but you sure should. Read more on wildlife safety in Grand Canyon National Park below.
Grand Canyon National Park Wildlife Viewing Safety:
How close is too close?
While you may be committed to getting the perfect photo, stay at least 100 feet (30 meters) or about two bus lengths away from bison, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, California Condors, and mountain lions. Keep at least 50 feet (15 meters) or about one bus-length away from other smaller wildlife like squirrels, birds, and reptiles. Keep Besides sharp teeth and claws, antlers and hooves are dangerous, so never underestimate the power of wildlife. Stay safe and never assume you are the one that can get away with a close encounter.
But, what if I really want the perfect photo?
The popularity of selfies and capturing any moment through photographs or video is posing a new threat to wildlife and humans. Trigger-happy tourists have started to provoke animals, and in some instances, alter their behaviors as a result. Quietly watching from a distance can be even more rewarding than getting the perfect shot. Perhaps you even came here to “get away” from a busy lifestyle and technology. So, use your zoom or a telephoto lens, or put your camera down and take a moment to really appreciate what you see.
What if I want to get an animal’s attention?
Calling, clicking, whistling or making noises of any kind to attract wildlife is illegal. Animals deserve to enjoy the park without disruption just as you do.
If there’s a group of people, is it safer to be near wildlife?
Whether it’s just you or 10 people, keep the long distance.
As crowds gather (as they often do), wildlife can quickly feel threatened and, in their panic, harm people. This is especially the case as people start to surround the animal(s), even if they are at the proper distance, because the wildlife may feel trapped. If people around you stop maintaining the 50 feet or 100 feet distance, don’t be afraid to speak up and remind your fellow visitors of the regulations. Sometimes, in the moment, anyone could use a gentle reminder that long-distance relationships with wildlife are better for everyone.
What if an animal approaches me?
Wildlife may not know better, but YOU do. Although it may feel flattering, if any kind of wildlife approaches you, back away and maintain that safe distance. It’s your responsibility and your safety —help us keep wildlife wild.
Can I feed the animals?
Feeding animals is prohibited. This is for their safety as well as yours. Wildlife quickly become persistent pests to you and others if you feed them. Even the scent left over in an empty cooler can attract a wild animal. When animals depend on people for food it can cause injuries and spread disease, which can ultimately lead to an animal’s demise.
What if an animal begs for food?
Animals can easily pick up scavenging practices, so never feed them. Animals stay healthier when you do not them. And, once they learn to beg, they can become aggressive, more likely to get injured by vehicles, and become seriously ill. They do not need your food handouts to survive. You can help us curtail this unwanted behavior from animals by putting your food away and moving away from the animal. Ask a ranger for other ways you can help.