Gila Monster Fever- 2 in less than a week...

[AZP&Y]

Ok, so I think I've stumbled upon something that may or may not be so common. 2 GILA MONSTERS in less than a week. They were both about 6 miles apart and at approximately the same elevation 2800-3100 feet.

 

Is this common? I've walked hundreds of miles in Arizona and not seen one since I went to The Phoenix Zoo. Any factoids you can throw out ? Breeding season - movement patterns. Or is this just pure LUCK? Either way I think I'll play Powerball this weekend.

 

Enjoy the pictures. I know I did getting close without having to worry about this critter pouncing on me !

 

AzP&Y

 

[KGAINES]

Probably luck, but right now it is not so hot that they will overheat being out and about during the day so you might be on to something. Buy the powerball tickets though, some people who hunt and fish regularly don't see two in their lives in the wild. The last picture looks like something from Jurassic park, thanks for sharing.

[COOSEFAN]

Awesome photos! I love those things and have been fortunate to see a handful of em' as well...I'd much rather run into one of those than a big ol' rattler! The cool thing is that each one is different in their coloring and markings, no two are the same!

[CouesWhitetail]

Most Gila monster sightings are in the spring. They are coming out of hibernation and I believe it's their mating season in the spring. So they are just more active this time of year, and therefore more likely to be seen. I have only seen a handful in all my hiking around.

 

Amanda

 

[Couzer]

Nice pics!

[NRS]

I usually see 2-3 a year, almost always in March and April.