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Small Mammals Small mammals are quite plentiful throughout the Northern Chihuahuan desert but most are rarely seen as they emerge primarily at night when it is easier to avoid predators. Numerous species of mice, rats and squirrels make their homes here in the Chihuahuan Desert A few are show here.. The gray fox, right, is another smaller predator that may be see abroad during the day light hours although they are most active at night, at dawn and at dusk. They, too, feed on small mammals, reptiles and birds they capture.

The desert cottontail, shown to the right is another animal you might see moving about during day time. . The badger, left, is not uncommon in this area. They are uncommonly seen, however, as they spend much of the time in their underground burrows. They feed on mice and other small animals they dig up. The striped skunk is the most common of 4 skunk species found in the northern Chihuahuan Desert. They are primarily nocturnal animals and feed on a variety of insects, small animals and bird eggs.

The jackrabbit, shown to the left, is probably the most common mammal you will see moving about during daylight hours. A jackrabbit in hiding can suddenly burst out of a bush, almost under your feet, and be quite a startling experience. There are three species of kangaroo rats found in the area but, unless you are out and about at night, you will never see them, The species shown is the banner tail kangaroo rat, largest of the three species. Kangaroo rats are so efficient at conserving water that they can often go their entire life without drinking. They get all the water they need from the seeds and plants they eat, These are just a few of the many small mammals that may be seen in the area. It's time to move on up the trail.