Flora & Fauna

Flora & Fauna

Despite the constant wind and the arid conditions, more than a thousand species of plants populate the mountains, chasms, and salt dunes that make up the park's different geologic zones. Some grow many feet in a single night; others bloom so infrequently they're called "century plants." Some of the most spectacular sights, however, are seasonal. In fall, McKittrick Canyon's oaks, bigtooth maples, and velvet ashes go Technicolor above the little stream that traverses it. Barren-looking cacti burst into yellow, red, and purple bloom in spring, and wildflowers can carpet the park for thousands of acres after unusually heavy rains.

Hundreds of animal species haunt the diverse environments of the Guadalupes. At last count there were nearly 300 different bird species, 90 types of butterflies, and 16 species of bats alone. The park's furry residents include coyotes, black bears, and badgers. You may also spot elk, which were reintroduced here in the late 1920s after nearly becoming wiped out here.

Plenty of reptiles and insects make their homes here too: coachwhip snakes, diamondback rattlers, and lovelorn tarantulas (the only time you'll spy them is in the fall, when they search for mates), to name a few. Texas's famous horned lizards—affectionately called "horny toads"—can also be seen waddling across the soil in search of ants and other insects. Rangers caution parents not to let little ones run too far ahead on the trails. Be mindful that rattlesnakes are common in the park. They aren't aggressive, but be sure to give a wide berth to any snakes your hear or spot.