South-East Arizona RFI
I’m going to S-E Arizona next weekend, mainly to the Chiricahuas though I fly into Phoenix. Does anyone have any advice on places for Grey-Collared Chipmunks (the closest I know of is Flagstaff Arboretum, which isn’t close), Hog-nosed Skunks, and anything else which might be exciting….
Thanks!
Jon
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August 26, 2012 at 3:48 am
Jon, no advice on those species I am afraid. But, we have been to Portal twice and know the area OK. There are puma sightings in that area once in a while. Collared peccaries and White-nosed Coati are common. It’s a great area for herps by the way. I know a bird guide in Portal that may have some insight on mammal spotting. Let me know if you are interested in his contact info.
Have a good trip.
August 26, 2012 at 2:08 pm
Thanks Alan – yes please do send me his details. I might at least contact him.
August 26, 2012 at 4:23 pm
His name is John Yerger. His email is here: http://www.adventurebirding.com/index.php/contact-us.html.
If you are looking for a place to stay, he manages a great little cottage in Portal. http://www.quailwaycottage.com/. The peccaries come through the cottage grounds most afternoon and are great fun to watch.
He had great knowledge about mammals so hopefully he will have some mammal advice for you.
August 26, 2012 at 5:24 am
I looked for the Chipmunk at a state park around Eagar without any luck, but saw a couple on the side of the road on Rt. 191 going south from Eagar. Lot’s of driving for a maybe but not as far out of the way as Flagstaff, and 191 is an incredible road IMO.
A bat guy said he saw a Hooded Skunk while we were netting along Cave Creek Rd. If I can find a decent map I can tell you exactly where it was, near Idlewild campground.
Mexican Long-tongued Bats come to the hummingbird feeders at the research station (the shape of the tail membrane is the key). The station is a good place to stay if they have room.
John
August 26, 2012 at 2:08 pm
Thanks John, yes any more info on the Skunk would be great. I have heard of another sitting near Cave Creek too so maybe that’s the place to look. And thanks for the tip on the Bats.
August 26, 2012 at 4:25 pm
I wouldn’t recommend spending too much time chasing the chipmunk. It is very common on some New Mexican mountains (i. e. the Magdalenas). New Mexico has enough interesting mammals to be worth a special trip
Besides, there’s a good chance you’ll see it in Chiricahua Nat’l Monument.
August 30, 2012 at 3:37 am
I’ve seen Hooded Skunks on the road I told you about in NM.