Considering a move from Chicago to Arizona

[Colt AZ]

Originally Posted by saffordpastor

As far as the animals in Az go....the Gila Monsters are definitely the worst. 15-30 feet long, breathe fire and like to feast on Chicagoan's and snowbirds.....very fast, if you encounter one don't try to run...or climb a tree either, they can skedaddle up a tree like a Polynesian coconut chipper.
They do have a keen sense of humor though and if you have a good repertoire of jokes, you can get them to belly laughing and sneak away.
Another critter to watch out for is Mohave rattlers. they run in packs and are also very fast...and cunning. They attack in the Shotgun formation typically.
Around Tucson keep an eye open for Wildcats....not to worry though they are typically pretty harmless, as evidenced by their nickname "Mildcats"
Scorpions are a concern....their sting will rock you like a hurricane at times.

Other then these Az is pretty safe.

One more piece of advice. Always keep a few Chihuahuas around. Coyotes are people too and need food like anybody else....and Chihuahuas are a very nutritional snack for them and will keep them from eating your children.

I can vouch for all of the above.