North Dakota’s varied landscape, carved by ancient glaciers and defined by the Missouri River system, supports a diverse range of wildlife. The state encompasses the open grasslands of the Great Plains, the rugged Badlands in the southwest, and the rolling hills and wetlands of the Drift Prairie. These distinctive ecosystems, coupled with numerous rivers and tributaries, support a wide array of fauna.
Large Mammals of the Prairie
The American Bison, the largest land mammal in North America, roams the state’s grasslands. These massive grazers shape the prairie ecosystem through their wallowing and grazing patterns, which help maintain the diversity of native grasses. The state is also populated by two primary deer species: the White-tailed Deer, which is widespread and numerous, and the Mule Deer.
Mule Deer are found in the rugged terrain of the Badlands and western North Dakota, distinguished by their large, mule-like ears and bounding gait. The Pronghorn, the fastest land mammal in North America, uses its speed to evade predators across the open prairie. The Black-tailed Prairie Dog also lives here, creating extensive underground colonies foundational to the grassland ecosystem’s health.
The prairie supports several predators and scavengers that regulate smaller animal populations. The Coyote is a highly adaptable canine found throughout the state, and the Red Fox is common in prairies and agricultural areas. The American Badger, a powerful burrowing carnivore with a distinctive striped face, controls rodent populations and maintains soil aeration.
North Dakota’s Avian Diversity
North Dakota is a significant stopover and breeding ground located within the Central Flyway, a major migratory corridor. Millions of birds pass through the state annually. A large portion of the state lies within the Prairie Pothole Region, an area characterized by numerous small, glacially-formed wetlands.
This region is often called the “Duck Factory” of North America because it produces a significant percentage of the continent’s waterfowl. Species like Mallards, Pintails, and Blue-winged Teal rely on these wetlands for nesting and raising their young. Large flocks of Snow Geese and Canada Geese also use the region as a stopover during migration.
The state is home to several species of Upland Game Birds. These include the Ring-necked Pheasant, an introduced species that thrives in agricultural and grassland areas. The native Sharp-tailed Grouse performs elaborate mating dances on communal display grounds called leks in the mixed-grass prairie. Raptors, such as the Golden Eagle and various hawks, including the Red-tailed Hawk, soar above the open country searching for prey.
Aquatic Life and Reptiles
The Missouri River, its tributaries, and Lake Sakakawea form the backbone of the state’s aquatic ecosystems, supporting nearly 100 species of fish. Popular game fish include the Walleye and Northern Pike, found in the state’s large reservoirs and rivers. The Missouri River also provides habitat for unique fish like the American Paddlefish, a massive filter-feeder.
The state’s water bodies and riparian zones are home to several species of amphibians, including the Boreal Chorus Frog and the Northern Leopard Frog. The Western Tiger Salamander is the largest terrestrial salamander in North America; it spends much of its time underground, emerging to breed in temporary wetlands.
The Prairie Rattlesnake is the only venomous snake in North Dakota and is found in the western half of the state, often near rocky outcrops or river bottoms. Non-venomous snakes like the Bullsnake, a large constrictor, and the Plains Garter Snake are widespread. Turtles, such as the Common Snapping Turtle and the Western Painted Turtle, inhabit the state’s slower-moving rivers and permanent wetlands.
Where to View Wildlife
Opportunities for viewing North Dakota’s wildlife are abundant, often concentrated within protected public lands. Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the Badlands is a prime location to observe large mammals, including the American Bison, Mule Deer, and Pronghorn, often visible along scenic loop drives. The park’s varied terrain also provides habitat for the Black-tailed Prairie Dog, whose towns are easily spotted near the roads.
The state manages numerous National Wildlife Refuges, which are important for birdwatching and waterfowl viewing. Refuges such as Des Lacs and Arrowwood are situated within the Prairie Pothole Region, offering excellent chances to see nesting ducks and migrating geese during the spring and fall migrations. The best time for viewing mammals, particularly large grazers, is during the early morning and late evening hours when they are most active.
State Parks and Wildlife Management Areas along the Missouri River, like Fort Stevenson State Park, provide access to riparian habitats where White-tailed Deer and numerous bird species can be seen. For ethical viewing, maintain a safe distance from all wildlife, especially Bison and Prairie Rattlesnakes. Use binoculars or spotting scopes for close-up observation.