One of the best parts of visiting Red River is simply seeing the wildlife that lives in the area. This area is known for its abundance of mule deer, but do you know anything else about any other animals you can encounter here? We have compiled a list of other creatures of nature you might see and where you will most likely see them.
Mule Deer in Red River
You’ll find Rocky Mountain mule deer in and around Red River. They sometimes appear in town, so always be on the lookout when you’re taking a stroll through town. You might even find one crossing a ski run (yes, this has happened multiple times)! Wherever you see one, you are more likely to see more, Daddy Deer included! Grab your camera or phone and snap a picture when you see one. Tag us in your photos; we’d love to know what you see, and we might even share it on our social media if you allow us to! You will find these animals strolling through yards and even crossing Main Street at all hours of the day.
Black Bears in Red River
The highest density of black bears in New Mexico is in northern New Mexico; this includes the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. These wild animals are usually not a threat to people. However, they can and will become aggressive when it comes to food. For your safety, it is important that you take all food and trash out of your vehicle and keep the vehicle doors locked. You will find big metal brown trash bins throughout the town, where you will dispose of any trash you accumulate while visiting. Just like the full time residents, all guests staying outside of town will be asked to bring their trash into town and place it in any brown dumpster before they leave. There are carabiners on them to keep them locked and closed; this helps keep the bears out of the trash. Please make sure to attach the carabiners back once you are done throwing trash away. Stop by Taos Mountain Outfitters when you get to town if you don’t have a can of bear spray with you.
Elk in Red River
During the fall and early mornings, you are likely to see elk; you might even hear them if you sleep with the windows open. They are often up Bobcat Pass, but sometimes you can find them strolling through the Upper Valley when they come down to find food. These massive creatures are fascinating to look at, and if you happen to snap any photos, tag us on social media!
Bobcats in Red River
Beautiful and dangerous bobcats can be found in Red River. They have even been spotted in town, cruising through the streets like they own the place. Do not approach these animals because they can be dangerous, but you are more than welcome to get pictures from a safe distance.
Bighorn Sheep in Red River
Found in the canyon between Red River and Questa, bighorn sheep can sneak up on you and appear right in front of you in the blink of an eye. These animals are beautiful and a sight to see, at the least. You might find them crossing the road to look for grass to eat during the warmer months. You’ll know these animals as soon as you see their big horns, which can weigh up to 30 pounds! Did you know that both the males and females have horns? That’s right! The female bighorn sheep also have horns, although they are shorter and straighter than a male’s horns.
Turkey in Red River
Gobble, Gobble! Rio Grand wild turkeys are found in the river valleys of New Mexico. They live in brush areas near streams and rivers where there are a lot of trees. These majestic creatures are not seen very often, but when they are be sure to snap a picture for memories.
These are just some of the animals that you are most likely to see when visiting Red River. Don’t be shocked if you see a moose in the area. Somehow, she made her way down, and she’s a beauty to see. Coyotes are running around Red River, too, although they don’t look as rough as what you are used to seeing in Oklahoma and Texas. The coyotes in Red River are pretty creatures and look much larger than those outside of the area. Just remember, just because they are pretty and majestic doesn’t mean they are your friendly stray pup. They can still be just as dangerous as our bobcats.
It’s important that you don’t feed any of these animals. Feeding any wildlife can harm them in the future and put you in danger as well.
