Keeping safe this summer in Arizona isn’t only limited to the sun and heat; our desert is also filled with unique critters. I was born and raised in Arizona, and while an encounter with one of these unlikely friends in the city can be rare, you should always be prepared!

The first rule when exploring our desert and running into wildlife is to remain calm and leave them alone. Remember, we are in their home! They are just as scared, if not more than you; they were just trying to go for their daily stroll until they bumped into you.

Check out my tips on how to prepare for a desert critter interaction in case it happens to you!

Name that Critter!

The Sonoran Desert is full of different wildlife, some more rare than others. A few common guys to watch out for are rattlesnakes, scorpions, coyotes, and javelinas. Check out a state website for more details about each specific species to familiarize yourself. These are most likely found when hiking but are also city folk too. I have seen javelinas and coyotes right outside my apartment community when walking around.

Your First Encounter

If you ever encounter our desert wildlife, stay calm and don’t do anything that would provoke the animal. A wild animal sighting can be unsettling at first, but if you don’t mess with them, they won’t mess with you. Don’t approach, provoke, and carefully remove yourself from the situation, especially with babies involved. Mama will protect her children! Remember you have inserted yourself in their environment!

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

While you don’t want to upset the animal, it is also best to be aware of your surroundings to avoid an accident where someone or a pet is injured. There have been multiple instances where I have been walking my pup, Ziggy and ran into wildlife. While there are various ways to keep your pet safe this summer, avoiding confrontation with other wild animals can be added to the list. When walking your pet, be extra cautious and keep those fur babies safe!

Photo courtesy of Camden San Marcos

Pest Control

The great thing about Camden is that if you have issues with any pests, we’ve got you covered. Pest control vendors come out regularly to spray and take care of pesky pests, but you can also request for them to come to your home if you are having a specific issue. That is just one of the many perks of being a Camden resident!

If you follow my tips and tricks, surviving summer and all its desert friends will be a piece of cake! Your reward will be those gorgeous mountain views that we are surrounded with. Want to take the leap of faith and move to Arizona? Check out our Camden locations and schedule a self-guided or live video tour with us today!