Wildlife
At RidgeWalk, each season offers a chance to encounter wildlife such as elk, deer, turkeys, and occasionally bobcats, mountain lions, or bears.
In spring, locals eagerly anticipate the hummingbirds' return, followed by the Orange Rufous in early July. A feeder on your deck allows you to witness their feisty competition for food.
Bear Awareness:
Our region is home to black bears, varying in color from black and brown to cinnamon (the most prevalent), reddish, and blonde. While not as aggressive as grizzlies, caution is still advised.
BearWise Basics:
- NEVER FEED OR APPROACH BEARS. Doing so teaches them to associate humans and homes with food, posing a danger to both parties.
- Secure your food, garbage, and recycling to prevent attracting bears.
- Unsecured trash is a leading cause of human-bear conflicts.
- Bears typically avoid humans unless conditioned to seek human food or garbage.
- Vegetation makes up 80-90% of black bears' diets in most areas.
- Black bears are found throughout New Mexico's mountainous regions.
- Grizzly bears are no longer present in New Mexico.
- Avoid interacting with bear cubs; their mothers are protective.
- Black bears are capable of running up to 35 miles per hour, climbing trees, and swimming proficiently.
- Report any bear activity. For further details on New Mexico's bears, visit BearWise.org.