Navigation

• Wildlife & Habitat
• Recreation
• Management
• Education
• Special Events
• Get Involved
• Plan Your Visit

Mammals of the Kern National Wildlife Refuge

Twenty-eight species of mammals have been found on the refuge. Most mammals are strictly nocturnal so daytime observation is limited. Ground squirrels and coyotes are the only frequently seen mammals during daylight. Visitors to the refuge will seen many species of birds and a few reptiles in their search for elusive resident mammals. The summer months can be extremely dusty, hot and dry. Refuge ponds are generally dry during the May through August period resulting in limited opportunities for wildlife observation.

Coyotes are occasionally encountered on the refuge during the day. Photo courtesy Steve Laymon.

Striped Skunks sometimes can be found hunting during daylight. Photo courtesy Steve Laymon.

California Ground Squirrels are the most frequently encountered mammals on the refuge. Photo courtesy Steve Laymon.

Mamals