The Paso del Norte Trail is surrounded by the Chihuahuan Desert, Franklin Mountains, and Rio Grande. This diverse terrain is home to wide variety of animal species, including 70 species of mammals, 72 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 361 species of birds. The Paso del Norte Trail is home to many of these species due to the presence of water, habitat, and vegetation for nesting and food purposes. Trail landscaping features incorporate native and pollinator-friendly plants to attract bees, bats, birds, and butterflies. 

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Texas Parks and Wildlife and High Desert Native Plants partnered in February 2020 to build and install wildlife habitats along the Playa Drain Trail and at Vocational Pond Park. These installations included bat houses with space for 1,200 bats and burrowing owl habitats designed for nesting mothers and families. 

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As you enjoy the Paso del Norte Trail, remember to be safe and respectful towards any wildlife you encounter. Though wildlife lives around the trail, you may never see them. If you do, be aware that you are in their area, so be kind to wildlife! Feel free to share pictures of any interesting animals you see to the Paso del Norte Trail Facebook page!