A celebration of the
Golden Eagle & Rattlesnake
City of Midvale, Salt Lake County
In June 2023, as part of the Los Muros on Main mural festival in Midvale, Utah, artist Chris Peterson unveiled a 76 x 16 ft mural titled "Golden Eagle: Águila de Fuego." Located at 676 West Center Street, this artwork draws inspiration from the Mexican flag's symbolism and the story of Phoenix, a local golden eagle and wildfire survivor. Golden eagles are apex predators and integral to Utah's ecosystems. Organizations like HawkWatch International help monitor and conserve these raptors.
Rattlesnakes, often misunderstood, are vital in controlling rodent populations. Promoting awareness and safety helps maintain coexistence with rattlesnakes. Resources like Rattlesnake Alert provide valuable information and training to foster safe interactions between humans, pets, and rattlesnakes.
This Wildlife Walls project was made possible through key partnerships.
This project was made possible through key partnerships with Midvale City, Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Utah and Hawkwatch International. This mural is part of this statewide project to install monumental murals in every county of Utah. A QR code is installed on each mural to educate visitors about the species and provide recommendations for nearby first-hand wildlife encounters.
The Story of Phoenix: the baby golden eagle who survived a Utah wildfire
Phoenix, a baby golden eagle, miraculously survived a devastating wildfire in Utah that swept through her nesting area. Discovered by wildlife officials amid the scorched landscape, she was badly burned but alive, a rare survivor in such harsh conditions. Named Phoenix after the mythical bird that rises from ashes, she became a symbol of resilience and hope. Rescued and treated at a wildlife rehabilitation center, she slowly recovered from her injuries. Her survival inspired conservationists and locals alike, highlighting the importance of protecting wildlife habitats. Phoenix’s story is a powerful testament to nature’s strength and the will to live.
Photos courtesy of Wildlife Rehab Center of Northern Utah
Baby golden eagle survives Utah's Dump wildfire: The Story of Phoenix, Salt Lake Tribune
Golden Eagle
Golden eagles are powerful birds of prey found throughout western North America, ranging from Alaska to northern Mexico. While some northern populations migrate during winter, most golden eagles in Utah remain in the state year-round. They prefer open landscapes like mountains, cliffs, and desert canyons. With keen eyesight and incredible speed, golden eagles are skilled hunters capable of taking down prey as large as jackrabbits or even young deer. Recently named Utah’s official state bird of prey, the golden eagle is a key predator in the ecosystem.
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They can reach speeds of up to 198 miles per hour when diving, making them one of the fastest birds on Earth.
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Their wingspan can stretch up to 7 feet, allowing them to soar for hours with minimal effort
Photo courtesy of Hawkwatch International
Get Involved in Eagle Conservation
HawkWatch International monitors nests, mitigates vehicle strikes, and runs winter feeding programs to support golden eagle populations in Utah and beyond.
Utah is home to five different species of rattlesnake, with the Great Basin rattlesnake being the most widespread. These snakes prefer rocky, high-elevation slopes but are incredibly well-camouflaged, often blending into their surroundings. It’s not uncommon to pass right by one without ever knowing it. Rattlesnakes are most active during the summer months, especially at dawn and dusk, when they hunt for rodents, birds, and other reptiles. Though their warning rattle is unmistakable, these snakes generally avoid confrontation and will only strike if they feel threatened.
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Rattlesnakes give birth to live young, typically in late summer, rather than laying eggs like many other reptiles.
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They use heat-sensing pits on their faces to detect warm-blooded prey, even in total darkness.
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A rattlesnake’s rattle is made of keratin (like human fingernails) and gains a new segment each time the snake sheds its skin.
Learn about how to stay safe and avoid conflicts with rattlesnakes from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Website!
Photo courtesy of Utah DNR
Rattlesnake
Aguila de Fuego mural
Designed and installed by Chris Peterson Studio
From the Artist
In May 2023, I was selected as one of the artists commissioned by Midvale City for participation in its mural festival "Los Muros in Midvale". I collaborated with the property owner to create a design that represents the local community. The design concept was inspired by the Mexican flag also provided Wildlife Walls to highlight the story of Phoenix the wildfire-surviving golden eagle, and the infamous rattlesnake.
The design includes a prickly pear cactus, the golden eagle face, circling silhouettes of his parents, the coils of a rattlesnake, stylized flames and a green comet(which was flying over earth that spring). I had assistance painting from Uno Pelavacas and Gohar.
For the Los Muros Event, we partnered with Hawkwatch International to bring a live golden eagle to the event. We provided eagle cutouts for visitors to paint, and the wildlife rehabilitation orgs Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Northern Utah & Wild Salt Lake also participated to tell the story of Phoenix with a display in our space. We
Gallery of Mural Process & Los Muros Event 2023
Celebrating Utah's wildlife with big art and wildlife encounters across the state on the Wildlife Walls Mural Trail.
Layers will include:
-Wildlife Walls Murals
-Wildlife Viewing Opportunity Site
-Local Attractions
-Partners (Outfitters, Lodging, Conservation, Outdoor Industry)
Where to find Golden Eagles
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Antelope Island State Park: Antelope Island, within the Great Salt Lake, is prime habitat to see golden eagles, bald eagles, prairie falcons, peregrine falcons, northern harriers, American kestrels, and red-tailed hawks.
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Jem Trailhead: Located near Virgin, Utah, this is a great area to spot golden eagles, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons Early morning and late afternoon are best for sightings.
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Kyhv Peak Lookout: Overlooking Utah Valley, this is a great place to catch a sunset as well as a glimpse of golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and turkey vultures. Fall is a great time to see migrating raptors.
Where to find Rattlesnakes
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Red Butte Garden: Located in Salt Lake City, Red Butte Garden offers a natural habitat where visitors might encounter rattlesnakes. Be extremely cautious and stay on designated paths, especially during warmer months when snakes are more active.
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Rattlesnake Aversion Training for Dogs: For dog owners frequenting rattlesnake habitats, Rattlesnake Alert in Salt Lake City provides aversion training to help dogs steer clear of rattlers. It also allows you the opportunity to see and interact with them in a safe and controlled environment.
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Rattlesnake Gulch: Millcreek Canyon
✔ Stay on Designated Trails: Rattlesnakes prefer rocky areas, tall grass, and shaded spaces near water. Staying on marked paths reduces the chance of an encounter.
✔ Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch where you step and listen for the telltale rattle if you’re near brush or rocky outcroppings.
✔ Do Not Disturb or Approach a Snake: If you see a rattlesnake, give it space and let it move away on its own. Most bites occur when people try to handle or harass snakes. It is illegal to harm
✔ Protect Your Pets: Keep dogs on a leash in rattlesnake habitats and consider aversion training to prevent accidental bites.
✔ What to Do if Bitten: Stay calm, keep the affected limb immobilized, and seek medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to suck out venom or use a tourniquet, as these methods can worsen the injury.
Wildlife Etiquette: Always observe from a distance, stay on marked trails, and never feed wild animals.
Nearby Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
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Peacocks @ Allen Park: Nestled in the Sugar House neighborhood, Allen Park is a quiet, artsy area where remnants of free-roaming peafowl still draw visitors.
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Raptors @ Jordan River Parkway (Arrowhead Park): This stretch of the Jordan River offers great opportunities to spot Swainson’s hawks, red-tailed hawks, and kestrels soaring above the cottonwoods or perched along the river corridor.
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Moose @ Silver Lake (Big Cottonwood Canyon): Just a short, accessible walk around Silver Lake often results in sightings of moose grazing in the wetlands, especially early in the morning or at dusk.
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Bison and burrowing owls @ Antelope Island: Less than an hour from Salt Lake, Antelope Island State Park is home to one of the largest free-roaming bison herds in the country, along with burrowing owls, pronghorn, coyotes, and shorebirds.
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Wild horses @ Dugway Mountains (Onaqui Herd): West of the Salt Lake Valley, the Onaqui Mountains are home to one of Utah’s most iconic wild horse herds. Access is remote, high-clearance vehicles are recommended. They are best viewed in spring and fall.
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Bonneville cutthroat trout @ Millcreek Canyon: This canyon offers accessible roadside pull-offs and shaded streams where Bonneville cutthroat trout can often be spotted swimming in clear pools.
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Mountain goats @ Mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon: Keep an eye on the cliffs above the canyon entrance, especially in spring and early summer, when mountain goats descend to feed on new vegetation.
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Rattlesnakes @ Rattlesnake Gulch, Millcreek Canyon: True to its name, Rattlesnake Gulch is prime habitat for rattlesnakes. Stay alert and observe from a safe distance if you encounter one on a trail.
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Red fox @ Big Cottonwood Regional Park: This urban green space in Holladay is occasionally home to red foxes. Early morning walks offer your best chance at a glimpse.
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Pelicans and waterbirds @ Decker Lake: Located just west of downtown, Decker Lake attracts American white pelicans, Canada geese, and various migratory waterfowl. Viewing is best in spring and fall.
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Migratory shorebirds @ Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge: Though a bit of a drive, this world-renowned bird refuge is well worth the trip. Visit during spring and fall migrations for peak shorebird activity, including avocets, stilts, and phalaropes.
Wildlife Institutions in Salt Lake City:
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Hogle Zoo: Located near the mouth of Emigration Canyon, Hogle Zoo is your chance to see a wide range native species upclose, including cougars, bighorn sheep, bobcats, and yellow-bellied marmots.
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Tracy Aviary (Liberty Park): One of the oldest aviaries in the U.S., Tracy Aviary houses over 130 bird species including golden eagles, bald eagles, American white pelicans, and barred owls.
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Tracy Aviary’s Jordan River Nature Center (Pia Okwaiwai): Situated along the Jordan River in South Salt Lake, this nature center offers bird blinds and walking trails with chances to view wild raptors and shorebirds in restored wetland habitat.
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Eccles Great Salt Lake Audubon Wildlife Center (Lee Kay Center): Just west of downtown, this new center sits along the southern shoreline of the Great Salt Lake and provides opportunities to see great blue herons, shorebirds, and other waterfowl. The surrounding wetlands are critical stopovers for migratory birds.
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Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter (Park City): Though technically just outside the Salt Lake Valley, Swaner Preserve is well worth the short drive. The 1,200-acre preserve is home to moose, sandhill cranes, and a variety of wetland species. Guided tours and boardwalk trails provide easy viewing access.
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Red Butte Garden: Adjacent to the University of Utah, Red Butte Garden is a great place to spot local wildlife. Birds, butterflies, and even rattlesnakes can be seen along the garden’s trails, particularly in spring and summer.
Don't miss these Local Attractions
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Wheeler Historic Farm: A working farm with historic barns, animals on display, and seasonal wagon rides.
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Big Cottonwood Park: An urban park with picnic areas, nature trails, and playgrounds. Keep an eye out for red foxes and a variety of birds during early mornings and evenings.
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Jordan River Parkway Trail: A scenic 40-mile trail system running through the valley, offering biking, walking, and wildlife spotting. Arrowhead Park is a top spot along the trail for seeing Swainson’s hawks and other raptors.
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Gardner Village: A historic mill complex transformed into a charming village with boutique stores, restaurants, and seasonal events like witch festivals and holiday lights.
Aguila de Fuego Mural Unveiling Press Release
Massive golden eagle mural in Midvale a story of resilience and inspiration
Phoenix rose from the flames to educate people about threats to wildlife
For immediate release: June 7, 2023
MIDVALE, Utah — The larger-than-life animals Chris Peterson paints on the sides of buildings are meant to inspire, impassion, and engage people who see them. Few realize that sometimes Peterson’s creations have stories of their own.
The massive golden eagle Peterson created for the Los Muros on Main mural festival in Midvale is based on a living eagle named Phoenix rescued as an eaglet after a wildfire on the west side of Utah Lake turned his nest to ash and left the still flightless raptor on the ground, burned, and fending for himself.
‘We thought the story of Phoenix would resonate with people as an example of all the threats wildlife face daily. Many of the threats are caused by humans,” said Peterson.
Phoenix now has his likeness and story for all to see as the second mural as part of the Utah Wildlife Walls project, a partnership with Peterson and the Utah Wildlife Federation to create wildlife murals with meaning across the state. A celebration of the mural is being held as part of the festival from 4-9 p.m. Saturday, June 10, 2023, at 676 West Main Street in Midvale.
A live golden eagle named Chrys will be on hand, literally, from 5-6 p.m. thanks to the staff at HawkWatch International. Chrys became an outreach animal after being hit by a car. Children, and creative adults, will be able to paint their own eagles at the event.
The Dump Fire burned in June of 2012 near Saratoga Springs and, the appropriately named, Eagle Mountain. It was started by people target shooting and led to more than 9,000 people being evacuated from their nearby homes.
Phoenix was rescued by a long-time raptor volunteer several days after the fire and taken to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Northern Utah. He was nursed to health, given his name and became a part of the outreach team for the center because his injuries prevented Phoenix from returning to the wild. His job was to help people learn about eagles in Utah and things we can do to protect them. And then the second life-threatening event happened.
Phoenix picked up the deadly West Nile virus, another major threat to all avian species. He was nearly lost again but pulled through with the care of the staff at the center. Damage to a leg and talon from the virus left him unable to grip a perch. His outreach days are now limited, much like the facility where he was brought back to health.
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center was recently told it had to move from its location in Ogden. After several attempts to secure an extension to allow the staff to find a new home, the center had to start turning away injured wildlife because they will not have a place to care for them.
“It’s kind of like Phoenix. He’s a survivor of a raging wildlife and West Nile and now facing the loss of a home and the urgent need for the wildlife community to rally around the center to help find him, and so many other injured creatures, a new home,” Peterson said.
Nikki Wayment, executive director at HawkWatch International and also a board member of the Utah Wildlife Federation, said it’s important to educate people about the threats to all wildlife and outreach animals are an effective way to motivate protection.
“These long lived birds face many threats, including electrocution, vehicle collisions, and impacts of invasive species like cheatgrass in their preferred habitat,” Wayment said. “HawkWatch International has been focusing intensely on golden eagles for more than a decade to understand the threats they face and how those threats can be mitigated.”
Golden eagles were officially recognized by the Utah Legislature as the state bird of prey in 2022. Wayment said because they are so charismatic and visible because of their migrations, golden eagles are revered by many native cultures and represented on the flags of many nations, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, Egypt, and Mexico.
Speaking of that, to honor the local community, Peterson and the Utah Wildlife Federation, decided to not only honor Phoenix, but also those Utahns who have a connection to Mexico.
The Mexican flag portrays a golden eagle clinching a rattlesnake while standing on a prickly pear cactus. Peterson included all these things in the mural and, while Phoenix is the star, the official name of the mural is “Aguilar de Feugo” or Eagle of Fire.
For DaLyn Marthhaler, director of the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Northern Utah, knowing an eagle she rescued, and not just once, will be seen by so many on the mural is exciting and rewarding.
“The mural is as beautiful and majestic as Phoenix. It really captures the spirit and intensity of golden eagles. May it give everyone who sees it the courage and strength to overcome adversity,” Marthhaler said.