Wild Denver: A Guide to the City’s Most Fascinating Wildlife

Denver may be a bustling metro area known for its breweries, sports teams, and stunning Rocky Mountain views, but it’s also home to a surprising variety of wildlife. From the animals that still roam the city’s green spaces and nearby foothills to the creatures that once ruled the Front Range before urbanization, the region is teeming with fascinating species. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most iconic and interesting wildlife of the Denver metro area—both past and present.

Wildlife That Calls Denver Home Today

1. Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)

One of the most common large mammals spotted in and around Denver, the mule deer gets its name from its large, mule-like ears. These graceful creatures are a familiar sight in parks, open spaces, and even residential neighborhoods, particularly in the suburbs where natural habitats blend with urban environments. Mule deer are most active during dawn and dusk, so keep an eye out during these times.

2. Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)

Red foxes have adapted well to urban life and are frequently seen darting through yards, parks, and alleys at night. Known for their reddish coats and bushy tails, these clever canines thrive in Denver’s greenbelts and wooded areas. Though they’re primarily nocturnal, it’s not uncommon to spot them during the day as they hunt for rodents, rabbits, and other small prey.

3. Black-billed Magpie (Pica hudsonia)

This striking bird, with its glossy black-and-white plumage and long tail, is a staple of the Denver area. Magpies are highly intelligent and social birds, often seen in small flocks as they scavenge for food. They have a reputation for being mischievous and will collect shiny objects to decorate their nests. If you hear a loud chattering call, chances are a magpie is nearby.

4. Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)

One of North America’s most formidable nocturnal hunters, the great horned owl is a common, though elusive, resident of Denver’s wooded areas. Recognizable by its large size and tufted “horns,” this owl preys on everything from rabbits to skunks. Listen for its deep hoots echoing through the night in areas like City Park, Washington Park, and the outskirts of town.

5. Coyotes (Canis latrans)

Coyotes have become a permanent fixture in the Denver metro area, thriving in urban and suburban landscapes. These adaptable predators are often seen trotting through fields, open spaces, and even golf courses. They play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations, though their presence sometimes causes concern for pet owners. Coyotes are naturally shy and tend to avoid humans, but it’s always best to keep small pets indoors at night.

6. Prairie Dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus)

Once covering vast portions of the Great Plains, prairie dogs remain an important part of the Denver ecosystem. These burrowing rodents live in colonies and are known for their complex social structures and high-pitched warning calls. While some view them as a nuisance, prairie dogs are a keystone species, providing food for predators like hawks, eagles, and coyotes.

7. Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

Though once on the brink of extinction, bald eagles have made a remarkable comeback and can now be spotted in Denver, especially near large bodies of water like Sloan’s Lake and Chatfield Reservoir. These majestic birds of prey are most commonly seen in the winter months, when they migrate south in search of open water and food.

8. Mountain Lions (Puma concolor)

While rare in the city itself, mountain lions occasionally venture into the Denver foothills and even suburban areas. These powerful predators are masters of stealth, rarely seen by humans despite their large size. If you’re hiking in the foothills, it’s always good to be aware of your surroundings, though encounters with mountain lions are incredibly rare.

Historical Wildlife of the Denver Region

Before Denver became a thriving urban hub, its landscape was dominated by vast grasslands, rolling hills, and towering cottonwoods along the South Platte River. This diverse habitat supported an even greater array of wildlife, some of which have since disappeared from the area.

1. American Bison (Bison bison)

Perhaps the most iconic symbol of the American West, the American bison once roamed the Great Plains in massive herds. These powerful animals were a crucial resource for indigenous peoples, providing food, clothing, and materials for tools. Sadly, by the late 1800s, overhunting and habitat destruction nearly drove them to extinction. Today, conservation efforts have helped restore bison populations in protected areas like Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can see these magnificent creatures up close.

2. Grizzly Bears (Ursus arctos horribilis)

Historically, grizzly bears roamed the plains and foothills of Colorado, but due to habitat loss and hunting, they were extirpated from the state by the early 1900s. Unlike their black bear relatives, grizzlies are much larger and more aggressive. While they no longer inhabit the Denver region, their presence in history serves as a reminder of Colorado’s wilder past.

3. Wolves (Canis lupus)

Gray wolves were once an integral part of the Denver ecosystem, keeping prey populations in check and maintaining a balanced environment. However, due to conflicts with settlers and ranchers, wolves were eradicated from Colorado in the 1940s. Efforts to reintroduce wolves to the state have sparked debate, but they remain a symbol of the untamed wilderness that once defined the region.

4. Elk (Cervus canadensis)

Elk still roam the foothills and mountain valleys near Denver, but they were once far more widespread across the plains. These massive ungulates are particularly famous in places like Rocky Mountain National Park, where they put on spectacular rutting displays in the fall. Some elk occasionally wander into Denver’s outskirts, particularly in the winter when they search for food at lower elevations.

Where to See Wildlife in Denver

If you’re hoping to experience Denver’s diverse wildlife firsthand, there are several great spots to explore:

• Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge – One of the best places to see bison, bald eagles, and prairie dogs without leaving the metro area.

• Cherry Creek State Park – A great spot for birdwatching, with frequent sightings of hawks, owls, and waterfowl.

• South Platte River Greenway – Ideal for spotting urban wildlife like beavers, foxes, and great blue herons.

• Mount Falcon Park – Located in the foothills, this area is home to mule deer, coyotes, and even the occasional mountain lion.

Despite its growth and development, Denver remains a city deeply connected to nature. The wildlife that still thrives here, along with the animals that once roamed freely, tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and the ongoing need for conservation. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting, taking the time to appreciate Denver’s wild side is a reminder that the spirit of the West is still very much alive.

So, next time you’re exploring the Mile High City, keep an eye out—you never know what incredible creatures you might encounter!

Also, be sure to check out our 'Respect The Locals' T-Shirt, an embroidered comfort colors design that pays respect to the animals that call Denver home.