Story by Priscilla Sherman
All content © San Juan Publishing Group, Inc, All rights reserved.

[SW Colorado] As you travel through the majestic San Juan Mountains, feasting on the scenic vistas and hopefully re-energizing your souls, please take time to recognize the rich diversity of life in the natural eco-systems that create this place we call heaven on earth.   From the snow capped peaks and diverse geology settings, to the crystal clear streams and turquoise-blue lakes, to the abundant alpine meadows of wildflowers and to the expansive collection of wild things that live in our forests, alpine meadows and in and along the steams.  This high country is rich in natural resources, learning about the species that share in the make up of the eco-system here can enhance your encounter and hopefully create awareness of the need to protect, conserve and restore areas damaged by human influence so that future generations can enjoy the same beauty,

The wild animals survival  depends on its behaviors and yours, so watch with your eyes only. Please enjoy them from a distance if your behavior changes theirs, you are too close. And please, never feed wildlife.  They have plenty of food in their natural environment. People food is made for people not animals.|

Obey the unwritten rule: leave without a trace. Take pictures, but leave everythig else as you see it. Stay on designated trails and camping sites. Keep all food secure, keep cooking materials clean and dispose of garbage in designated animal-proof containers. Keep your dog on a leash so it won't frighten or harass the wildlife. Repsect the rights of landowners and other wildlife viewers. Ask permission to access private lands and respect the rules of private lands.

The best time for viewing wildlife is sunrise and sunset, when they come out to feed. Move slowly and stay quiet. Best way to see them though, is to find a place (preferably upwind them), then wait, staying very still and very quiet. Remember though, that these are wild animals, and if provoked, or protecting their young, can be very aggresive.

Most popular mammals for viewing:
Black Bear, Big Horn Sheep, Mountain Goats, Elk, Mule Deer (for their ears, not their tails!), Marmots, Pica, Coyotes and wolf, Moose, Fox, Lynx, Cougar, Bob Cats
Bird watching:
Eagles, Hawks, Ptarmigan, Grouse, Numerous small and colorful song birds.