Hiker Stops In His Tracks After Crossing Paths With A Rare Animal In Phoenix
Hiking provides numerous benefits. It’s not only excellent for your mental and physical well-being, but it also offers the opportunity to witness breathtaking views and wildlife you don’t often encounter.
Jacqueline Hurst, an avid hiker, is well aware of this. She has embarked on countless hiking trips throughout her life, but her latest adventure is one she’ll never forget.
It all began when she hiked up Piestewa Peak in Phoenix. While trekking along one of the trails, she spotted an animal moving through the rocks.
Initially, she didn’t think much of it, as she’s accustomed to seeing various creatures during her hikes. But when she caught sight of the animal’s tail, she was left completely stunned…
A Rare Encounter
As soon as Jacqueline spotted the tail, she immediately knew what animal it was. She recalled in an interview:
“I saw that unmistakable beautiful tail.”
It was bold, fluffy, and striped like a raccoon’s – but longer and more elegant. To her amazement, the animal just a few feet away from her was a ringtail, the state mammal of Arizona.
This striking, yet seldom-seen creature was sitting near some bushes, nibbling on a small piece of fruit.
It looked calm and content, completely unaware that it had just made someone’s day.
About The Ringtails
So, what exactly is a ringtail? While they resemble house cats, ringtails actually belong to the raccoon family. Like raccoons, they have distinctive, fluffy, striped tails.
These animals are native to the Southwestern U.S. and Northern Mexico. Although they’re not considered endangered, ringtails are seldom seen in the wild.
Jacqueline was incredibly lucky to have spotted one in person.
What’s most interesting is that she’s hiked Piestewa Peak nearly 100 times, yet this was only the second time she had ever seen a ringtail. She said:
“They tend to avoid humans. I really hadn’t expected to ever see one again.”
The reason why ringtails are so rare to see is because they’re mostly nocturnal. They have large eyes and remarkable vision that help them see at night.
Jacqueline spotted this tiny mammal just as the sun was coming up. She added:
“Very few people have been lucky enough to ever see one in person.”
While watching the ringtail on the trail, Jacqueline held her breath in awe. She managed to take a few quick photos and a video of this extraordinary animal.
She couldn’t believe how close she was to such a special creature. She said:
“They’re quite small, and certainly very cute.”
A Concern For Their Safety
Despite her excitement, Jacqueline began to worry about the ringtail’s safety. When wild animals become habituated to humans, it can be dangerous for them. She shared:
“Unfortunately, I think one of the reasons that this particular ringtail was still active after sunrise is likely because some hikers are either leaving food behind or actually feeding the ringtails. I think people believe they are doing a good thing, but they’re not.”
Jacqueline knew just how lucky she was to witness such a rare sight, but she also hoped others would respect the boundaries that keep wildlife safe.
As the ringtail disappeared into the brush, she carried on with her hike, grateful for the experience and more determined than ever to protect creatures like it.
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