TUCSON, Ariz. — Do you know all the animals that represent the Grand Canyon State?
If not, the results may surprise even the most experienced Arizonan.
Here are five desert critters who hold a special importance to our state:
The Ringtail
This fox-like critter can be tough to spot in the desert! According to the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum, ringtail are excellent climbers capable of ascending vertical walls, trees and cliffs.
Apache trout
This type of fish is found in the White Mountains of Arizona. They can grow as long as 20 inches in length and weigh up to five pounds. According to fws.gov, in 1973, the Apache trout became federally protected with the passage of the Endangered Species Act.
Ridge-nosed rattlesnake
This snake is found in many of the "sky island" mountain ranges, according to reptailesofaz. They are also capable of delivering potent venom. If you encounter one in the desert, leave them alone!
Arizona Tree Frog
The Arizona Tree Frog is also known as the "mountain frog." They are found in oak, pine and fir forests above 5,000 feet elevations.
Two-tailed Swallowtail
Each wing of the Two-Tailed Swallowtail has 4 almost parallel stripes. It became the official state butterfly in 2001. According to butterfliesandmoths.org, they inhabit multiple areas including Foothill slopes and canyons, woodlands. moist valleys and cities.
For more on what represents Arizona, visit azgovernor.gov.
