McDowell Sonoran Conservancy: Trailside Naturalist – Original Rock Climber and Pest Control at Gateway Trailhead

Location: Gateway Trailhead – 18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Time: ~2.5 hours

Stop by anytime between 8:30 and 11:00 A.M. to find out all about the elusive ringtail; Sonoran Desert resident and
state mammal.

One of the most exciting small animals to see out hiking in the Preserve is the elusive ringtail, Arizona’s state mammal. Since they are exclusively night hunters, most people have not seen it’s large black eyes or beautiful long black and white furry tail. Fun fact: ringtails have semi-retractable claws and can rotate their hind feet 180 degrees, allowing them to descend cliffs face first. Come learn all about these furry little creatures.