Yellowstone National Park is a 3,500 square-mile wildlife haven that is located atop a volcanic hot spot, better known as the Yellowstone Caldera. Mostly in Wyoming, this park branches into parts of Idaho and Montana as well and is home to some of our state's most treasured geological wonders. Yellowstone is also known for its abundant vastness and abundant wildlife. Yellowstone is a resting ground for over 200 species of animals, from bald eagles to grizzly bears to wolves, bison, and elk. It’s recorded that nearly 60 other species of mammals roam here in this natural habitat. Needless to say, there is plenty of wildlife to see while visiting this national treasure. Yellowstone is also home to over 300 species of birds, 16 species of fish, six species of reptiles, and four species of amphibians. It is the epitome of wild here!

Grizzlies and black bears in Yellowstone.

This apex predator is omnivorous, and bears roam free in search of any grub. Park officials pay close attention to bear activity for both the bear and visitors' safety. National Park regulations require all visitors to remain a minimum of 100 yards (91 meters) from the animal for safety. It is a common saying throughout the Park that "a fed bear is a dead bear," so please observe from a distance and never feed wildlife. The greatest danger to these animals is the habituation of human food. Keep them wild and majestic.

If you want to get your "beak" wet with wildlife viewing, consider our Wildlife Discovery Tour. It departs at either sunrise or sunset for prime opportunities to catch animals out and about. While some tours are a full-day affair, this tour is only four hours. 

Elk, mule deer, and moose 

Large ungulates are abundant all over Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The sound of bull elk bugling can be heard in various parts of the Park during the fall months. This is the signature of the fall rut where male elk compete with others for the attention of females. If you have never heard of an elk bugle, it is magical and a must to experience.

If you are traveling solo or with the whole family, the Sunrise Drive and Walk combination trip is another great option. Your naturalist guide will take you through the national park at sunrise to catch animals headed to their daytime beds. Then, guests head to the scenic Shadow Mountain for a short hike that showcases the best views of the Grand Teton range from the valley perspective. 

Wolves

In 2015, an estimated 528 wolves resided in the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, and in January 2020, it was measured that at least 94 wolves were left in the park. Once a feared predator, wolves were eliminated from Yellowstone in the 1970's. In 1995, approximately 30 gray wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone, and their population had the opportunity to reproduce. Since that initiation, it has been much debated to eradicate wolves due to their threat to livestock. Wolves also help to regulate populations of ungulates, which in turn keep elk, deer, and moose from dying from overgrazing food sources and falling ill from disease.

Yellowstone Bison

You will see the largest free-ranging population of bison in the lower 48 states here in Yellowstone. Today, the population is roughly 4,700. While baby bison (aka red dogs) appear playful, an adult bison can weigh up to 2,425 lbs and reach a top speed of 35 mph. Always keep a safe distance; don’t be the type of tourist that mistakes these gentle-looking animals for a selfie opportunity. Each year, multiple visitors to the park are attacked by bison who feel threatened. Observe them from a safe distance of a football field (or pitch.) Sometimes, bison will cross over the park roads, and you can see them up close and personal from the safety of your car.

Our most immersive wildlife viewing tour is the Sunrise Drive and Hike. If you are passionate about animals or have a "must-see" list, including elk, moose, or bears, this is the excursion for you. Offering breakfast and lunch and the amenities needed for an eight-hour foray in a comfortable vehicle and on foot, our guests are set up for success to catch a glimpse of the most iconic animals in the area. 

Bald Eagle

It should be no surprise that America’s first national park is home to the country’s national symbol. Bald eagles can be found in large trees close to water as they prey on fish. Don’t forget to look up!

Pronghorns

Pronghorn Antelopes are incredibly fast fast. Ones found in Yellowstone can sprint up to 60 miles per hour to move around the park and run from predators. They’re quite sheepish and spend most of their time grazing on the prairies. These animals evolved to run from the North American cheetah that once existed in this ecosystem before becoming extinct. Perhaps the pronghorn was too fast!

Trumpeter Swan

A trumpeter swan sighting is very special. These birds are the largest waterfowl in the North American region, and currently, it’s estimated that there are just ten swans that reside in Yellowstone National Park. 

These are only some of the spectacular animal sightings available in our National Parks. The Yellowstone Eco-system is abundant with wildlife, and with a trained eye, you can spend days observing unique species from sunrise to sunset!