Animals

Jackrabbits are a common sight at Amistad.

Mammals are common, but since most animals are secretive, visitors often only see White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus), cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus spp.), Black-tailed Jackrabbits (Lepus californicus) , and perhaps an occasional skunk or Porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum).

Like the flora, Amistad’s migratory fauna also reflects that it is in an area of transition. Many tropical species, especially birds, are at or near their northern limits. Great Kiskadees (a flycatcher, Pitangus sulphuratus), Olive Sparrows (Arremonops rufivirgatus), and two tropical kingfishers--the ringed (Megaceryle torquata) and green (Chloroceryle americana)--can be seen over the park. Tropical butterflies, like the White Peacock (Anartia jatrophae), Ruddy Daggerwing (Marpesia petreus), Common Mestra (Mestra amymone), and the Polydamas Swallowtail (Battas polydamas) are also vistors to Amistad.

Perhaps Amistad National Recreation Area’s most notable wildlife phenomenon is the fall migration of Monarch Butterflies (Danaus plexippus) from the Great Lakes to the mountains of central Mexico. Around October, just after the first major autumn cold front, thousands of Monarchs pass through this part of Texas. They roost in trees by the hundreds, waiting for favorable winds from the north to help them on their journey south.