Wyoming’s vast open spaces and diverse geography, from towering mountains to sweeping plains, provide a haven for a remarkable array of animal life. Over 100 mammal species and 400 bird species call Wyoming home, making it a significant area for wildlife observation.
Wyoming’s Diverse Ecosystems
The western half of the state is dominated by the Rocky Mountains, featuring high peaks, forests of lodgepole pine, and alpine meadows. These mountainous regions provide cooler summer ranges and secluded habitats for numerous species.
Moving eastward, the landscape transitions into high plains, also known as the American steppe, characterized by shortgrass and mixed-grass prairies. This semiarid environment, drier due to the rain shadow effect of the Rockies, supports grassland-adapted wildlife. Interspersed throughout the state are intermountain basins and deserts, such as the Red Desert, which, despite their arid conditions, sustain a surprising amount of life.
Wetlands, though covering only about 1.5% to 2% of Wyoming’s total land area, are important oases in this dry state. These areas include marshes, wet meadows, and riparian corridors along rivers like the Green and Snake. Wetlands are utilized by approximately 90% of Wyoming’s wildlife species at some point in their life cycle, including a significant proportion of its bird populations. The Continental Divide also bisects the state, influencing water flow and creating distinct hydrological basins that further shape habitats.
Iconic Mammals of Wyoming
American bison, the largest land mammal in North America, are a prominent sight, particularly in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, where they have existed since prehistoric times. These powerful herbivores can weigh over 2,000 pounds and are featured on Wyoming’s state flag.
Elk are another prevalent species, with the Greater Yellowstone herd being the largest in the nation. These large deer are frequently seen across the state, including in the Bighorn Mountains and National Elk Refuge, where thousands migrate for winter. Moose, the largest members of the deer family, can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and are concentrated in marshy areas of Jackson Hole and Yellowstone, feeding on aquatic plants.
Both grizzly bears and black bears inhabit Wyoming’s forests and mountain habitats. Grizzly bears, particularly abundant in the Yellowstone and Grand Teton ecosystems, are omnivores, distinguished by a muscular hump on their back. Black bears, which can range in color from black to cinnamon or blond, are more widespread across the state.
Gray wolves, reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995, play an important role in the ecosystem, preying on elk and other large game. Various deer species are also common, with mule deer being more prevalent across the state, while white-tailed deer are also found. Mule deer, named for their large ears, can weigh up to 280 pounds and are a significant food source for predators.
Beyond the Big Game: Other Fascinating Creatures
Pronghorn, North America’s fastest land animal, are common across the plains and deserts, capable of sprinting nearly 60 miles per hour. Bighorn sheep are found in mountainous regions, including the Bighorn National Forest, where they navigate rocky cliffs. Smaller mammals like coyotes, bobcats, and various fox species (red, swift, gray) are integral parts of the food web. Prairie dogs, badgers, and numerous rodent species, including pocket gophers, mice, and voles, inhabit diverse terrestrial environments. Wild horses also roam areas like the Red Desert.
Raptors such as bald eagles and golden eagles soar overhead, while prairie falcons and various hawks are common. Wetlands provide habitat for waterfowl like ducks and trumpeter swans, as well as shorebirds. The greater sage-grouse, a species associated with sagebrush habitats, is also found in the state’s expansive sagebrush steppe.
The state’s aquatic environments and terrestrial areas host a variety of reptiles and amphibians. Reptiles include various snake species like the prairie rattlesnake and garter snakes, along with lizards and turtles. Amphibians such as tiger salamanders, boreal chorus frogs, and northern leopard frogs are found in wetlands and other moist habitats. Wyoming’s rivers and lakes are home to diverse fish populations, notably various trout species, including native cutthroat trout.