Yellowstone National Park is not only a geologic wonder, but also home to abundant wildlife. As a wildlife preserve, visitors flock to this region to see animals in their native habitats. Popular wildlife sightings in the park include:
- Bald Eagles – Dotting the shores of Yellowstone’s rivers and lakes, bald eagles are commonly sighted as they look for their next fish-filled meal. Adult eagles are 30 to 45 inches in height.
- Bighorn sheep – Roaming the hills and mountains throughout Yellowstone, these sheep weigh 200 to 300 pounds, ranging in color from dark brown to light brown, have curved horns and a white behind.
- Bison – Roaming wild throughout the park, Yellowstone is home to approximately 3,500 bison. These massive animals are approximately 2,000 pounds and commonly frequent the Hayden and Lamar Valleys.
- Black Bears – Common sightings are between March and November. Visitors need to remember to maintain space and to never approach wild animals.
- Coyotes – Some of the largest coyotes in the U.S. live in the park, weighing 30 to 40 pounds. Smaller than wolves, coyotes live an average of six years.
- Elk – In the summertime, Yellowstone is home to 25,000 elk. Elk weigh 500 to 700 pounds and are commonly sighted in the Mammoth region in meadows and large fields.
- Grey Wolves – Reintroduced to Yellowstone, this area is now home to more than 325 gray wolves. Lamar Valley is commonly frequently by wolves.
- Grizzly Bears – The best time for visitors to obtain a glimpse of a grizzly bear is between March and November. Grizzly bears are commonly sighted and rangers have information about areas that are safer for long-distance viewing.
- Moose – Second in Yellowstone to bison, moose weigh 1,000 pounds and are seven feet in height. The males’ feature telltale cupped antlers that make for outstanding photos.
- Mule Deer – These large deer can jump at a moment’s notice. Known as black-tail deer, mule deer are distinguished by a black-tipped tail and oversized ears. Yellowstone is also home to white-tailed deer and pronghorn antelope.
- Trumpeter Swans – The world’s heaviest airborne bird, swans weigh 23 to 30 pounds and are distinguished by their white bodies and long, graceful necks.
- Badgers – Seldom seen, but common within the park, badgers often dig dens and live in holes, searching out their prey.
- Foxes – Distant and cautious, these animals can be spotted in Lamar Valley and on Specimen Ridge.
- Mountain Lions – Only 20 to 35 mountain lions inhabit the park. Weighing 100 to 160 pounds, mountain lions are a member of the cat family.
- Otters – Social and playful, otters are found along rivers and lakes, including Trout and Yellowstone Lakes.
- Small Mammals – Yellowstone is home to ground squirrels, chipmunks, red squirrels, marmots, northern flying squirrels, porcupines, beavers, muskrats, pocket gophers, voles and mice.
Yellowstone Holiday is located in West Yellowstone. Located amid abundant wildlife, they feature vacation cabins near Yellowstone National Park as well as RV parks in West Yellowstone.