Learn more about Arizona's nongame species and conservation programs:

Arizona’s varied topography, geology and climate together produce a stunning array of environments. All four of North American deserts along with grasslands, woodlands, montane and alpine forests, and even alpine tundra occur in the state. In addition, Arizona contains a few large rivers, numerous creeks and other aquatic features. These systems with their accompanying riparian areas play a large part in maintaining wildlife diversity.  Altogether, these different environments are home to nearly 800 species of amphibians, birds, invertebrates, fish, mammals and reptiles. Of those, approximately 90 percent are considered to be nongame species: animals that are not traditionally hunted, fished or trapped.

Many nongame animals are quite common and can be viewed as close as your front yard.  Others are not as common, and some are quite rare. Many populations are declining or are facing increased pressure from human activities, urban and rural development and climate changes. The role of the Nongame Branch of the Arizona Game and Fish Department is to provide stewardship for our natural legacy.  The branch is dedicated to the protection, restoration and maintenance of nongame and endangered wildlife as part of the natural diversity of Arizona and to providing opportunities for the public to enjoy nongame and endangered wildlife without detriment to those resources.