Mammals

Pocket gophers are one furry species that staff and volunteers found during the park's small mammal inventory effort, which helps biologists understand who lives on Mount Wanda.

NPS

Tracks and Trails: Mammals of Mt. Wanda

Mount Wanda is home to a rich variety of mammals, offering visitors a chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Quiet morning strolls may reveal gray foxes darting through the underbrush or mule deer grazing peacefully. As twilight falls, the activity shifts—coyotes howl in the distance, raccoons scavenge under cover of dusk, and, with a bit of luck, you might even glimpse a bobcat or a mountain lion. Below are some of the fascinating mammal species you may encounter while exploring this scenic area:

Botta’s Pocket Gopher (Thomomys bottae)

These subterranean creatures are masters of life underground, spending most of their time in a maze of burrows. You can often spot their presence by small mounds of soil at the entrance to their tunnels. Named for their cheek pouches or “pockets,” which they use to carry food, pocket gophers feed on leaves, grasses, and plant roots. Keep an eye out for signs of their activity along trails and fire roads!

Brush Mouse (Peromyscus boylii)

Small but resourceful, brush mice are common throughout California and an integral part of the Mount Wanda ecosystem. They feast on nuts, seeds (especially acorns), and green vegetation. During the summer, these nimble creatures can often be seen darting through tall grasses or scurrying across fallen leaves. Park staff actively monitor brush mice as part of ongoing conservation efforts.

Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)

With their large, mule-like ears, mule deer are instantly recognizable and frequently spotted at Mount Wanda. Their sharp hearing and keen eyesight help them detect predators and other dangers. These graceful mammals are most active at dusk and dawn, grazing on shrubs and grasses. Keep a respectful distance to observe their peaceful routines without causing stress.

Bobcat (Lynx rufus)

Elusive and graceful, bobcats are highly adaptable predators that roam Mount Wanda’s landscapes. Roughly twice the size of a domestic cat, they are identifiable by their tufted ears and short, “bobbed” tails. Bobcats prey on rabbits, birds, and rodents, using their incredible agility to pounce more than 10 feet to catch their meal. If you’re fortunate enough to spot one, admire it from a distance—never approach. If you encounter one near trails, calmly leave the area and notify a ranger.

Mountain Lion (Puma concolor)

Also known as cougars or pumas, mountain lions are the largest carnivores at Mount Wanda. These solitary and secretive predators are most active at dawn, dusk, and night but may occasionally be seen during the day. Adult mountain lions can weigh as much as a human and rely on their strength, stealth, and agility to hunt deer and smaller prey. Unlike “big cats” such as lions and tigers, mountain lions cannot roar but communicate with growls, hisses, and purrs. If you see a mountain lion:

• Do not approach it.
• Maintain eye contact and back away slowly.
• Report the sighting to a ranger immediately.

Tips for Wildlife Viewing

• Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on the habitat.
• Bring binoculars to observe wildlife from a safe distance.
• Avoid feeding or approaching any animals, for their safety and yours.
• Be especially cautious during dawn and dusk when many mammals are most active.

 

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