Arizona is concluding a two-week stretch of extreme heat that has driven desert animals into locations they might otherwise avoid — including sidewalks, yards and areas around buildings — increasing the chance of encounters between people and wildlife.
Animals change schedules, seek shade and water
Wildlife biologists say many species are shifting activity patterns to cope with sustained triple-digit temperatures. Observations this summer outside a Tucson news station included at least a dozen rattlesnakes and other desert creatures on paved surfaces during cooler parts of the day.
“In the heat of the day, during these temperatures, they typically look for shade and conserve energy just anywhere they can,” said Mark Frieberg of Arizona Game and Fish. That shade often appears near homes, parked cars and businesses — places where people are more likely to encounter animals that might otherwise remain hidden.
“It might even be uncomfortable for homeowners to see that – those wildlife not wanting to leave during the heat of the day,” Frieberg said.
Water scarcity intensifies the problem
Arizona is also experiencing drought conditions that make natural water sources scarce. To mitigate that shortage, Arizona Game and Fish operates more than 3,000 wildlife catchments statewide designed to provide water for animals. This year, because rainfall has been insufficient, staff have had to haul water manually to many catchments, particularly in the Tucson area and southeastern Arizona.
When wildlife are most likely to be active
Frieberg and department staff say animals are concentrating their activity during cooler windows and staying close to water:
- Dawn — increased foraging and movement
- Dusk — hunting and travel
- Night — nocturnal species remain more active to avoid daytime heat
Practical steps for residents
Officials urge Arizonans to be aware and take sensible precautions when extreme heat is affecting wildlife patterns:
- Avoid approaching or attempting to move wild animals; give them space.
- Secure pets and supervise them outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Keep yards clear of debris and potential shade spots that might attract snakes or rodents.
- Report immediate public-safety hazards to local authorities rather than handling animals yourself.
How the state is responding
Arizona Game and Fish officials say they are prioritizing catchment maintenance and water runs to reduce wildlife stress and lower human-wildlife conflict. The department also offers a way for the public to support those efforts through its Send Water program, which allows people to donate to help with water deliveries and catchment upkeep.
| Observed behavior | Typical locations |
|---|---|
| Seeking shade, conserving energy | Under cars, near building foundations, shaded yards |
| Concentrating near water sources | Natural springs, catchments, urban water features |
| Increased activity at cool hours | Dawn, dusk, nighttime |
Broader implications
These behavioral shifts reflect both the immediate stress of heat waves and longer-term water scarcity trends. When wildlife congregate near human habitations to access shade and water, the risk of negative interactions rises. Officials stress that mitigating conflict requires a combination of public awareness, careful landscaping and continued management of artificial water sources for wildlife.
Arizona Game and Fish continues to monitor conditions and perform water runs as needed. Residents who encounter wildlife concerns should contact local animal control or the department for guidance rather than attempting to move or feed wild animals themselves.
As temperatures remain high, biologists advise that people, like wildlife, should plan outdoor activity for cooler parts of the day and remain vigilant for animals that may be taking refuge in atypical places.
