Animals and Plants
The Tonto National Forest contains important habitat for a variety of wildlife, fish and rare plants. The forest's location, from the Sonoran desert to the Mogollon Rim, provides for diverse vegetation and elevation zones. Two major river systems, the Salt and Verde rivers, add to the overall diversity of the forest communities, as well as, corridors for birds that migrate along these rivers and drainages. Management, protection or enhancement of this habitat and populations of plants and animals that rely on this habitat is required by various laws including the Endangered Species Act, National Forest Management Act and others.
For the forest visitor or those concerned about forest management, wildlife and fish checklists, sensitive species lists, management indicator species lists, wildlife viewing sites, habitat improvement projects and other information is available on this site. Current or ongoing wildlife and fish projects, biological evaluations and assessments, volunteer opportunities, important bird areas, featured wildlife programs, and other information will be made available based on availability of information or public requests.
The following checklists provide information on wildlife and fish species that may be found on the Tonto National Forest year-round, seasonally, occasionally or as accidental visitors. These checklists are designed for use in the field to record your wildlife observations. Information on unusual sightings can be reported to Ranger District or Forest Supervisor offices.
Amphibians and Reptiles of the Tonto National Forest
Birds of the Tonto National Forest
Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, Page 5, Page 6
Fish of the Tonto National Forest
Mammals of the Tonto Forest
Threatened and endangered species are species officially designated by the US Fish and Wildlife Service because the viability or continuation of the species' population is at risk. Protection and enhancement of these listed species and their habitat is required under the Endangered Species Act. Habitat quality or quantity is often a major reason for a species decline and it is incumbent on the Forest to insure management actions on the forest do not contribute further to a listed species decline. It is also the Forest's responsibility to implement recovery actions identified in Recovery Plans within the Forest's jurisdictional responsibilities.
Sensitive species are those species whose populations are of some concern because of overall declines or risks from land management activities on the Forest. These species are designated by the Regional Forester and require that management activities do not contribute to declines in the species that might affect population viability. The current Southwest Region Sensitive Species list was approved in 2000. Work is currently in progress on a revised list.
Species of concern are species included in the Forest sensitive species list that may also be assessed for project activities because of concern for a species habitat or because species may be affected by certain activities that may occur on the Forest. These species have no official designation, but are considered where projects may affect important habitat for the species.
Bald Eagles
Help protect the state’s 55 breeding pair of bald eagles, by giving them space as they begin rebuilding nests in preparation for laying eggs. Several of the areas closed each December are on the Tonto National Forest.
The Tonto National Forest contains a significant portion of the core breeding areas for the bald eagle in Arizona along portions of the Salt and Verde rivers within the Forest. Through management and protection of these bald eagle nesting areas, the Tonto National Forest has contributed to the recovery of the bald eagle since the species was listed in 1967. The Forest has promoted protection and enhancement of the species and its habitat by restricting land management activities, maintaining "No Entry" areas around bald eagle nests, initiating and supporting the "Bald Eagle Nestwatch." In 1978, the Tonto National Forest and Maricopa Audubon Society began the Nestwatch Program by stationing observers at bald eagle nests on the Salt River to protect bald eagles from recreationists, aircraft overflights, and other activities that were affecting bald eagle reproduction. This program has since been directed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and later the Arizona Game and Fish Department and is considered critical to the recovery of the species.
​The Tonto National Forest serves on the Southwest Bald Eagle Management Committee (SWBEMC), a committee comprised of federal, state, private and tribal agencies dedicated to coordination and cooperation of funding and activities designed to protect and recover the bald eagle. Efforts by these land management agencies have been successful in increasing the number of eagles fledged from a low of 4 in 1974 to 43 in 2014.
The SWBEMC continues of coordinate activities, such as the Nestwatch Program, public education, and research needs, across multiple agencies. The committee's website is found at the following link and contains extensive information of Arizona bald eagles, protection and other activities.
For more information, visit the Southwest Bald Eagle Management Committee web site.
If you have questions or require additional information about the wildlife, fish and rare plant program, contact one of the following individuals.
Forest Supervisor's Office
Vacant, Forest Wildlife Biologist
Cave Creek Ranger District
Vacant, Wildlife Biologist
Globe Ranger District
Vacant, Wildlife Biologist
Mesa Ranger District
Vacant, Wildlife Biologist
Payson/Pleasant Valley Ranger Districts
Christina Akins, Acting Forest Wildlife Biologist christina.akins@usda.gov
Tonto Basin Ranger District
Vacant, Wildlife Biologist
Invasive Plants
The Tonto National Forest's Invasive Species Program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at protecting the forest's diverse ecosystems from the threats posed by non-native invasive species. The program focuses on education, prevention, and control to maintain ecological balance and support native biodiversity.
Program Objectives
- Education & Outreach: the program emphasizes raising awareness among Forest Service employees, regional Incident Management Teams, special interest groups, and the public. Educational efforts focus on preventing the spread of invasive species and identifying common weeds within the forest. Collaborations with surrounding land managers and organizations are fostered to develop cooperative weed control strategies and projects.
- Prevention & Early Detection: by promoting best practices and early detection methods, the program aims to prevent the introduction and establishment of invasive species. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining the health of the forest's ecosystems.
- Integrated Control Measures: the program follows the principles of IPM (Integrated Pest Management) and employs a combination of cultural, physical, mechanical, biological, and chemical control methods to manage invasive species effectively. This integrated approach ensures adaptability and effectiveness in various environmental conditions.
Environmental Assessment for Integrated Treatment of Noxious or Invasive Plants (PDF)
Invasive species have two main characteristics: they are non-native (exotic/alien) to the ecosystem that they occupy, and their existence in that ecosystem causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment, or human health. If left unchecked, invasive species can threaten native species, biodiversity, ecosystem services, recreation, water resources, agricultural and forest production, cultural resources, economies and property values, public safety, and infrastructure.
The National Invasive Species Council defines “invasive species” as a species that is 1) non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration and 2) whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health (Executive Order 13112).
Much of the Tonto’s efforts in the weed management program have been directed toward education and awareness of our own employees, regional Incident Management Teams, special interest groups, and the public. The emphasis of these presentations has been prevention of weed spread, and identification of common weeds on the Tonto. The Forest is developing relationships with surrounding land managers and other agencies and organizations that operate within the boundaries of the National Forest, to work cooperatively on weed control strategies and projects.
Current projects include:
Arnett and Telegraph Creeks Invasive Species Management Project
The Tonto National Forest (TNF), in collaboration with the Arizona Wild (AZ Wild), is implementing a critical restoration initiative in Arnett and Telegraph Creeks, located within the Tonto National Forest near Superior, Arizona. This area, especially Arnett Creek, is a lesser-known but ecologically valuable riparian corridor that contains stretches of perennial water—an increasingly rare and vital resource in the Sonoran Desert. These waters support a range of sensitive and endangered species, including amphibians, birds, and native fish.
Project Purpose and Background
The primary goal of this project is to remove non-native invasive plant species—specifically tamarisk (salt cedar) and oleander—that are threatening riparian ecosystems in the area. These species, though currently concentrated in discrete clumps, have shown aggressive growth patterns and pose long-term threats to native vegetation and habitat quality. Removing them at this stage is a proactive effort to prevent further degradation and to allow native vegetation to reestablish and thrive. The project area covers a multitude of acres along Arnett Creek and upper Telegraph Creek, spanning roughly 2.2 stream-kilometers from the area known as “The Gate,” below “The Jungle,” to a historic basket weir dam located approximately 1.5 kilometers east of the Picket Post Mountain Trailhead.
Ecological Significance
These creeks are identified by the Arizona Game and Fish Department as suitable habitat for the endangered Gila topminnow. They also serve as potential habitat for the federally threatened Western Distinct Population Segment of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, the Arizona state-listed Lowland Leopard Frog, and native Longfin Dace. Invasive species removal and native plant restoration directly support habitat improvement for these species.
Following invasive plant removal, the Forest Service plans to enhance the area through:
- Replanting with native cottonwood and willow species
- Reintroduction of Gila topminnow
- Long-term monitoring to assess ecological recovery
Project Achievements and Collaboration
This initiative has been ongoing for a few years regarding AZ Wild’s involvement in Arnett Creek and builds upon a broader Forest Service restoration strategy dating back to 2016. To date, approximately 70% of the oleander and tamarisk have been cut and treated—a significant accomplishment given the density and terrain. This project reflects the power of collaborative conservation. Key partners have included AZ Wild, dedicated volunteers, and Forest Service personnel. Their shared commitment has made large-scale invasive species removal and habitat restoration feasible in this rugged and biologically rich landscape.
Alignment with Forest Management Objectives
This project directly aligns with the Tonto National Forest’s Land and Resource Management Plan, Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), and the Environmental Assessment (EA) for Integrated Treatment of Noxious or Invasive Plants. It represents a model of adaptive management and sustainable land stewardship in the face of growing ecological pressures. Through targeted invasive species control, native habitat restoration, and strong interagency collaboration, the Forest Service and AZ Wild are safeguarding the integrity of Arnett and Telegraph Creeks. This effort ensures that these unique desert waterways continue to provide vital ecosystem services and refuge for Arizona’s most sensitive species
Himalayan Blackberry Management Strategy
The Tonto National Forest has launched a comprehensive, long-term project aimed at managing and restoring lands affected by Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), a highly invasive species that threatens native biodiversity, disrupts ecosystem balance, and hinders forest access and recreation. This project reflects the Forest Service's commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainable land use, and collaboration with local communities, scientists, partners and volunteers. This project follows a phased, adaptive management approach designed to achieve early detection, containment, and eventual restoration of native plant communities. The strategy is spread across multiple years, with built-in flexibility to adjust treatments based on effectiveness and field conditions.
Project Phases:
Phase 1: Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) occurs during the first year. The focus is on surveying and mapping infestations through field assessments, USFS databases, and citizen science contributions. Trained field crews and volunteers will initiate manual removal of small patches and apply limited herbicide treatments to prevent spread. Post-treatment monitoring ensures follow-up where regrowth occurs, and plans are made for the next season based on observed success.
Phase 2: Eradication and Containment spans Years 2 to 3 and targets medium-density infestations. Treatments intensify, including the removal of root crowns and use of cut-stem herbicide applications. GIS mapping is updated to identify high-priority treatment zones, and intensive monitoring ensures treated areas do not experience reinfestation. Public education and stakeholder engagement remain integral, especially to address concerns about the blackberry’s perceived value as a foraged fruit.
Phase 3: Long-Term Control and Restoration, during Years 3 to 5 and beyond, prioritizes reestablishing native plant communities in treated areas. Restoration plans are developed in winter, with funding sourced through grants and partnerships. Native species are reintroduced to create ecological resilience and discourage reinvasion. Seasonal monitoring and spot treatments continue, and the Forest Service encourages volunteer participation in annual surveys to maintain vigilance against new outbreaks.
Sustainability:
Ongoing Monitoring and Adaptive Management, beginning in Year 5, ensures that progress is maintained through routine data collection, updated GIS tracking, and periodic reassessment of methods. Collaboration with universities, conservation groups, and community partners supports continued innovation and accountability in invasive species management. Through this phased timeline, the Tonto National Forest is working toward a landscape that is both resilient and ecologically healthy. The project underscores the importance of persistent monitoring, public involvement, and ecological restoration to ensure that invasive Himalayan blackberry is not only removed but replaced with thriving native ecosystems that benefit wildlife, water quality, and forest users alike.
Lower Salt River Restoration Project
The Lower Salt River Restoration Project (LSRRP) is a riparian restoration project located on the Lower Salt River within the Mesa Ranger District, Tonto National Forest. The project aims to protect one of the few remaining low elevation desert riparian vegetation communities in the state. The project has started by restoring areas affected by the Cactus Fire, with a long-term goal of restoring the entire 14 miles of the Lower Salt River Recreation Area. Ecologically, the project aims to reduce the presence of invasive plant species, increase native plant abundance, reduce the risk of wildfire, increase water quality and quantity and improve riparian habitat for wildlife species.In addition to these ecological benefits, the project aims to educate and involve the local community through partnership opportunities, environmental education events for K-12 students and sustained community involvement in monitoring and maintaining restoration activities.
Background
On April 25, 2017, the Cactus Fire ignited on the Lower Salt River, approximately four miles northeast of Mesa, Arizona. In four days the fire affected a total of 818 acres, severely burning 232 acres of an area dominated by the invasive plant species, tamarisk. The Cactus Fire exposed the role that changes to ecosystem function such as water regulation and the introduction of invasive plant species can play in altering fire behavior. When dense vegetation stands become dry or die, they represent large amounts of highly flammable material. Not only can fires such as this severely affect native vegetation, but a significant public safety threat is also associated with wildfires in areas with close proximity to urban communities and infrastructure, such as the Lower Salt River Recreation Area. While the Cactus Fire decimated a large portion of the landscape in this heavily recreated area, it also opened the door to the potential for an ecological restoration project. Immediately following the fire, resource managers began experimenting with ways to control the regeneration of tamarisk within the fire’s burn scar. At the same time, exploring the capabilities of reaching the ground water table, knowing that available water would mean the opportunity to revegetate the area with native species. What began as a three-acre experimental plot quickly gained momentum and in 2018 grew to become what is known as the Lower Salt River Restoration Project. At the heart of this collaborative effort is a partnership between Ecoculture, the Tonto National Forest, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, National Forest Foundation, and Northern Arizona University. The project is managed and executed by a team of restoration specialists known as Ecoculture, within the Center for Adaptable Western Landscapes at Northern Arizona University. Without the collaboration of these partners and many others, this project would not be possible. We sincerely thank everyone who has played a role in making the Lower Salt River Restoration Project a reality.
Management Objectives
Reduce the Presence of Invasive Plant Species: while the Cactus Fire was a human caused wildfire, the presence of invasive plant species drastically altered the fire’s behavior and severity. Following the fire, tamarisk or salt cedar (Tamarix chinensis), a fire adapted species was the first plant to re-emerge within the burn scar. Other non-native plants such as giant reed (Arundo donax) and stinknet (Oncosiphon piluliferum) have also taken advantage of the disturbance, quickly forming large populations within the fire footprint. Non-native plant species can quickly out compete native plants for resources such as sun, water, and nutrients threatening native biotic communities. Through a variety of treatment methods, the LSRRP aims to reduce the presence of these and other invasive plant species along the Lower Salt River. This type of work requires a continued effort. As new ground is covered in each phase of the project, all areas covered in previous phases are retreated as well. This repeated “maintenance” will help to ensure successful removal and/or control of invasive plant populations.
Increase Abundance and Diversity of Native Plant Species: This objective is achieved through a process known as assisted natural regeneration, utilizing both active and passive restoration techniques. Both methods rely on an initial strategy of treating and removing invasive plant populations. Active restoration then comes in the way of planting thousands of native riparian tree species. Genetic material is collected from the Lower Salt River and regions in similar elevation, with slightly warmer climates, with the goal of producing trees adapted to the warming temperatures associated with climate change. These trees are then grown in a Northern Arizona University greenhouse for up to a year before finding their way back to the Lower Salt River. Passive restoration relies on the natural recruitment of native plant species. By removing the constant competition of invasive plants, native species begin to recolonize areas on their own. Together these methods are helping to conserve riparian habitat critical to the Southwest.
Improve Riparian Habitat: Did you know the Lower Salt River houses nearly one third of all Bald Eagle nesting sites in the state of Arizona? Did you know the river in your backyard is designated by Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area (IBA)? Not only are riparian habitats critical for birds, they are important to all wildlife in the arid Southwest. Riparian areas are the interface between land and a river or stream. In the desert, these areas differ drastically from surrounding uplands and host a wide variety of biodiversity. The LSRRP aims to improve riparian habitat by sustaining and expanding two essential vegetation communities, the mesquite bosque and the cottonwood-willow gallery forest.
Reduce Risk of Catastrophic Wildfire: As we mentioned above, invasive plant populations drastically altered the behavior of the Cactus Fire. Large dense stands of non-native plant species allowed the fire to carry faster and burn at a greater severity than what would be typically expected on a desert riparian landscape. These types of fires threaten native biotic communities that did not evolve with regularly occurring wildfire. In addition to this ecological harm, the Cactus Fire posed a significant public safety threat to the local community. The LSRRP aims to mitigate the risk of wildfire by reducing fuel loads and limiting the presence and connectivity of invasive plant populations.
Increase Awareness and Engage Local Community: In addition to the ecological benefits, the LSRRP aims to educate and involve the local community through partnership opportunities, environmental education events for K-12 students, and sustained community involvement in monitoring and maintaining restoration activities. The success and rapid progress of the project is the result of collaboration among federal and state agencies, universities, non-profit organizations, local corporations, and community members. We care deeply for this piece of land and hope to inspire and educate others on how they can help to conserve their public lands. To learn more about our Educational Outreach program click here.
Invasive weeds first came to the attention of the Tonto National Forest in the mid-to late 1980’s with the discovery of yellow starthistle on private land in the community of Young by Francis Cline. Mr. Cline, family members and others in the community formed the Tonto Weed Management Area. They have enlisted the help of various agencies and organizations as cooperators to provide resources for control of weed infestations that have appeared in Pleasant Valley and Gila County.
Invasive plant control projects on the Tonto National Forest have amounted to very limited manual grubbing projects and application of herbicides along state and federal highway rights-of-way by the Arizona Department of Transportation, until 2003. In the summer of 2003, a Noxious Weed Program Manager was hired. The first large-scale project was a prescribed burn of Malta starthistle along Highway 188. This infestation was possibly first introduced in the mid-1980’s and had already spread significantly beyond the right-of-way in 2003. Projects since that time have included one follow-up to this burn, other prescribed burns, and manual grubbing of weeds in many other locations. Funding levels have been very low and are not expected to increase in the near future, despite noxious weeds being one of the four major threats to National Grasslands and Forests recognized nationally by the Chief of the Forest Service. The Forest depends upon special funding sources and grants to accomplish weed control projects.
Projects of the scale and type we have conducted have not been adequate to prevent weed infestations from growing. The wet winter and spring of 2004-2005 resulted in a population explosion of Malta starthistle, Saharan mustard, and red brome at lower elevations; and yellow starthistle, bull thistle, and diffuse knapweed on the higher elevation districts.
The Tonto has not been intensively surveyed for noxious weeds. Populations of some noxious weeds have been known for nearly 20 years and have spread considerably since they were first identified. Others are still being found in small infestations. Opportunities such as post-wildfire long-term rehabilitation funding have been used to complete more extensive surveys and control new infestations. Both long-term and Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation funds have been used to conduct weed surveys and removal in the areas of the Rodeo-Chediski, Picture, Willow, Diamond, Webber, Edge, and Cave Creek Complex fires.
Biological and chemical pesticides are employed as one component of an integrated approach to managing Forest insect, disease and invasive plant problems. Pesticides are one tool utilized by forest managers to protect and maintain forest health.
To ensure the proper use of pesticides, it is Forest Service policy to:
- Base actual and recommended uses of pesticides on analysis of effectiveness, specificity, environmental impacts, economic efficiency and human exposure.
- Review and approve all proposals for the use and application of pesticides on National Forest System lands using the current Pesticide-Use Proposal (PUP) Form FS-2100-0002:
- Use pesticides in compliance with all applicable Federal, State and local laws and regulations.
- Permit only certified personnel or those under the supervision of a certified applicator to use restricted-use pesticides.
Botany
“Spines to the Pines” means the Tonto National Forest contains many different ecosystems. Our districts encompass the Sonoran Desert, semi-desert grasslands, Arizona chaparral, juniper and oak woodlands, ponderosa pine forest and mixed-conifer forest.
Plants are foundational organisms that provide many essential benefits to the ecosystem including clean air, food, and wildlife habitat. Several plants such as Arizona walnut, jojoba and agave are also culturally significant to many local American Indian Tribes.
- Saguaro’s (Carnegia gigantea) can live to be 150-200 years old! Saguaro flowers are pollinated by bats during the night and by bees and birds during the day.
- Hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus sp.) fruit tastes likes strawberries and is a major food source for rodents and birds.
- Beardgrass (Bothriochloa barbinoides) isa perennial bunch grass that grows along road sides and is said to have a sharp smell of blueberries if you crush its seeds.
- Alligator Juniper (Juniperus deppeana), typically found above 4,500 ft elevation, has bark that looks like an alligator’s skin.
- The Tonto Basin agave (Agave delamateri)is a rare domesticate that was tended by pre-Columbian people. It was most likely used for food and fibers.
Our forest botany program participates in numerous activities to ensure the preservation of our lands for generations to come. A day in the life of a botanist can include:
Monitoring for rare and invasive plants to manage for multiple uses. The Tonto is one of the most floristically diverse forests in the Southwest region with:
4 botanical areas
7 research natural areas
- Collaborating with partners on research, plant conservation, and citizen science programs.
- Coordinating native seed and plant production. The Tonto has partnerships with local nurseries to provide viable seed options for large-scale restoration efforts. Two examples are: Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) and Sonoran Desert rehabilitation post-wildfire
"Spines to the Pines" Brochure
Background
At-Risk plants, also known as Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Plant (TESP) species, are now being classified by the following statuses (see the description section below for detailed information):
- Threatened & Endangered (ESA Federally listed T&E)
- Species of Conservation Concern (SCC)
- Watch, TNF Specific Ranking
- Species of Interest (SOI), TNF Specific Ranking
As part of the 2012 planning rule requirements, per FSH 1909.12, Chapter 10, section 12.52b, item 1b, the Species of Conservation Concern (SCC) list replaced the Regional Forester’s Sensitive Plant list for the Tonto National Forest. Throughout the development of the revised 2023 Tonto National Forest Land Management Plan, the forest has continued to review and assess potential Species of Conservation Concern (SCC) to recommend to the Regional Forester.
As outlined in FSH 1909.12, Chapter 10, section, 12.52c, the basic criteria for identifying SCC are:
- The species are native to, and known to occur, in the plan area.
- The best available scientific information about the species indicates substantial concern about the species’ capability to persist over the long term in the plan area.
In response to the Tonto National Forest Land Management Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement, the forest received substantial input on proposed SCC from our state, corporate, and non-profit partners, as well as from interested members of the public and internal staff. Revisions to the recommended list of SCC incorporate the best available scientific information as contributed by these organizations and individuals. Reasons for these changes include newly documented concerns for species persistence, recent changes in ecological conditions on the forest, updated evaluations of risks to species, and new information regarding species distribution.
In drafting the revised Tonto National Forest Land Management Plan (2023), standards and guidelines were developed to maintain or restore ecosystem integrity and ecosystem diversity (coarse-filter approach) to provide sufficient ecological conditions for at-risk plant species. Species-specific components (fine-filter approach) were included in some cases where existing risks to species were not adequately addressed.
As part of developing the standards and guidelines regarding plants during the drafting of the revised Tonto National Forest Land Management Plan an assessment was conducted which included review of plant population status information for the known and recommended SCC plants. It was determined that there are many rare and endemic plant species that have minimal available information to warrant formal designation as SCC. This necessitated the development of the Watch and Species of Interest statuses for the Tonto National Forest. These two supplementary statuses indicate the need for additional information gathering (project level assessments and opportunistic surveys) for rare and endemic plants that have the potential for SCC consideration—better information will help to determine their future inclusion/exclusion on the SCC list as well as to document any adaptive management needs for these species and ensure their management in accordance with the forest plan.
To view entire list Click Here.
If you have questions or require additional information about our forest botany program, contact one of the following individuals.
Forest Supervisor's Office
Robert Madera, Forest Botanist robert.madera@usda.gov
Rikki Gurule, Botany Technician Rikki.gurule@usda.gov
Payson/Pleasant Valley Ranger Districts
Kenda Svoboda, District Botanist Kenda.Svoboda@usda.gov
Tonto Basin/Globe Ranger District
Danika Setaro, District Botanist Danika.Setaro@usda.gov