Thinking about moving to Mesa—or already living here and curious about the wildlife around you?
You’re in for a treat. 🐾

East Mesa, especially communities like Las Sendas, Mountain Bridge, Red Mountain Ranch, and The Reserve at Red Rock, sits right at the edge of the natural desert. That means residents get the best of both worlds: peaceful neighborhoods and a front-row seat to some of Arizona’s most iconic wildlife.

Whether you're exploring local trails, enjoying your backyard at sunset, or simply driving through the neighborhood, here are some of the beautiful creatures you might see if you're paying attention. 

🦁 Bobcats — Arizona’s Silent, Stunning Desert Cats

Yes — bobcats live in Mesa, and spotting one is something you’ll never forget. I filmed this whilst meeting clients. 

Bobcats are shy, solitary, and generally avoid people. They wander through desert washes, golf courses, and quiet neighborhoods, especially those with preserved natural open space (like Las Sendas).

What to look for:

• A short “bobbed” tail

• Tufted ears

• Spotted coat

• Smooth, confident walk

🦜 Colorful Lovebirds — One of Mesa’s Cutest Surprises

No, you’re not imagining it — those bright green and peach birds aren’t tropical escapees anymore; they’re locals. 🐦💚

Peach-faced lovebirds have built thriving colonies in Mesa and are now one of the area's most beloved wildlife sightings.

You’ll often spot them:

• Perched on palm fronds

• Visiting backyard feeders

• Chirping in small flocks

• Stopping by golf course ponds

They’re friendly, loud, and full of personality.

Stunning colorful lovebirds.

🦉 Owls, Hawks & Desert Birds of Prey

Arizona is a raptor paradise. Keep your eyes open and you may spot:

• 🦉 Great Horned Owls

• 🦅 Red-tailed Hawks

• 🐦 Harris’s Hawks (they hunt in groups!)

• 🦉 Burrowing Owls around open desert areas

• 🦅 Kestrels hovering above fields

These birds thrive around East Mesa’s open spaces, golf courses, and washes.

When to see them:

• Owls → early mornings or at dusk

• Hawks → soaring midday above the Red Mountain area

🐍 Roadrunners, Quail & Other “Only in Arizona” Favorites

Not all desert wildlife is dramatic. Some are just delightful to see during a neighborhood stroll.

Common local favorites include:

• 🏃‍♂️🐦 Roadrunners sprinting across walking paths

• 👑🐤 Gambel’s Quail families (look for the feather plume!)

• 🐇 Desert cottontail rabbits

• 🦎 Geckos and lizards sunning on warm rocks

• 🐿️ Ground squirrels watching you from holes

Kids especially love seeing quail families dart across the road in perfect single-file lines.

🦊 Coyotes — Smart, Beautiful, and a Common Sight

Coyotes are extremely common in East Mesa, especially:

• Near the Usery Mountain area

• Around golf courses

• Along desert washes

• Early mornings and late evenings

They play an important role in the ecosystem and typically avoid people.

Tip: Keep small pets close and be aware during dawn and dusk.

🌸 Desert Flora — Don’t Miss the Spring Bloom

Mesa’s wildlife isn’t just animals — the desert landscape itself explodes with color every spring.

What you may spot in bloom:

• 🌵 Saguaro flowers

• 🌸 Prickly pear blossoms

• 💛 Brittlebush

• 💜 Desert lupine

• 🌼 Cholla blossoms

“Cactus in full bloom''

Where You’ll See the Best Wildlife in East Mesa

Some neighborhoods offer particularly good viewing because of their proximity to preserved desert areas.

🔹 Las Sendas

Backs directly onto desert and trail systems — wildlife sightings are common and often breathtaking.

🔹 Mountain Bridge

Sits at a slightly higher elevation, attracting more birdlife and offering beautiful views of migrating hawks and songbirds.

🔹 Red Mountain Ranch

Near the golf course and natural washes — great for owls, quail, and hawks.

🔹 The Reserve at Red Rock

Quiet, private, and nestled near natural land — ideal for spotting bobcats and desert birds.

Thinking of Moving to Mesa? The Wildlife Is Just One Perk.

Mesa’s outdoor lifestyle is a huge draw for buyers — from hiking and trail access to peaceful desert scenery right outside your door.

For more insights into Mesa’s neighborhoods, outdoor amenities, and relocation tips, download one of Lorraine’s free local guidebooks:

👉 https://ryallrealestate.com/guide-books/

And if you’re considering a move, downsizing, or upsizing in 2025, Lorraine would love to help you explore the communities that match your lifestyle.