Grand Canyon biologist sets up cameras to document wildlife

By FELICIA FONSECA
Associated Press

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - A Grand Canyon biologist has set up cameras along the Colorado River in search of an elusive skunk.

Two hog-nosed skunks have been photographed once each at the Grand Canyon, in 2012 and 2013. Generally, the animals live in southeastern Arizona, Texas and Mexico.

Park biologist Brandon Holton is hoping to get an idea of how they got to the Grand Canyon and if more exist.

He recently placed more than two dozen cameras along the river corridor that can sense heat and movement. He's already seen evidence of the animals roaming about the Grand Canyon and burrowing for insects.

Holton plans to have the cameras along the river corridor for about a year. The cameras were paid for by the Grand Canyon Association, the park's fundraising arm.