The southwestern amphibians and reptiles listed and pictured below have adapted to a land of such harsh extremes that watching them for only a few moments is enough to appreciate the fragile nature of their existence. The Chiricahua Mountains move from desert to high forest within a few miles thus offering home to a wide range of species.

Some amphibians come to Earth's surface only when a just-right rain has fallen. Some reptiles consume pounds of insects every week, others keep nuisance rodents under control. Rarely do we see most of these amazing animals, for many are nocturnal. Others avoid all larger beings, including humans, for fear they will be attacked.

Even our few venomous reptiles are timid. Rattlesnakes only strike in self-defense. They coil and warn us if they feel surprised, cornered, or threatened. Avoided or left alone long enough to feel fairly safe, rattlers will move away. The shy and reclusive coral snake, whose black and red rings are always separated by yellow rings, has such a tiny head, mouth, and teeth that one would have to step on one long enough for it to find a small toe and then work its venom teeth to it.

The amphibians and reptiles listed below are only a few that can be found in the area around Myrtle Kraft Cottage. By clicking on any of the photos below, you can see a larger version of the photo.