Discover East Yellowstone's Thriving Wildlife Ecosystem
East Yellowstone Valley is more than just a gateway to America’s first national park, it’s a thriving ecosystem where some of North America’s most iconic wildlife roam freely.
Visitors who venture through this less-traveled entrance to Yellowstone during the summer months are in for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
From the thunderous presence of bison to the quiet majesty of a bald eagle soaring overhead, East Yellowstone offers an up-close look at nature in its most untamed form.
The Giants of Yellowstone: Bison
No visit to Yellowstone is complete without encountering a herd of bison. Weighing up to 2,000 pounds, these massive creatures symbolize the untamed spirit of the American West. While they may seem slow-moving, bison can sprint up to 35 mph when startled, so always observe from a safe distance.
Buffalo vs. Bison: What’s the Difference?
Many people call them buffalo, but technically, the term is a misnomer. True buffalo like the Cape buffalo of Africa and the water buffalo of Asia are entirely different species. The animals that roam Yellowstone are bison, specifically the American bison.
The easiest way to tell the difference? Bison have a pronounced hump over their shoulders and a thick, woolly coat, whereas buffalo have sleeker bodies and larger, curved horns.
Elk: The Valley’s Summer Serenade
East Yellowstone’s meadows and riverbanks come alive with herds of elk during the summer. Though they are most famous for their haunting bugles during the fall rut, summer offers a more peaceful glimpse of these graceful animals as they graze in open fields. If you spot a bull elk, take a moment to appreciate his impressive antlers they can grow up to an inch per day and span over four feet!
The Bears of East Yellowstone: Black and Grizzly
Yellowstone is bear country, and East Yellowstone is one of the best places to witness these incredible predators.
- Black Bears are the more common of the two species. Despite their name, they come in a variety of colors, from black to cinnamon brown. They are excellent tree climbers and often forage near berry patches, making them easier to spot in summer.
- Grizzly Bears are larger and more powerful, distinguished by their noticeable shoulder hump and longer claws. They tend to stick to higher elevations during the hottest months but can occasionally be seen near rivers and meadows searching for food.
A good rule of thumb: If you see a bear, stay at least 100 yards away and carry bear spray when hiking.
Moose: The Gentle Giants of the Waterways
Standing up to seven feet tall at the shoulder, moose are the largest members of the deer family. They are often found wading through streams or feeding in marshy areas, using their long legs to navigate deep water with ease. Despite their calm demeanor, moose can be surprisingly fast and should be observed from a safe distance especially mothers with calves.
Eagles and Raptors: Kings of the Sky
As you explore East Yellowstone, don’t forget to look up. The region is home to both bald eagles and golden eagles, as well as osprey, hawks, and peregrine falcons. Bald eagles, with their unmistakable white heads and powerful wingspans, often nest near rivers and lakes, while golden eagles prefer rugged cliffs and open country. Ospreys can be spotted diving into rivers to catch fish, an impressive display of nature’s precision.
Other Notable Sightings
Beyond the headline species, East Yellowstone is teeming with wildlife. Keep an eye out for:
Mule Deer
Often spotted at dawn and dusk along the forest edges.
Coyotes
Whose yipping calls echo through the valley at night.
Bighorn Sheep
Clinging to rocky cliffs and ridges.
River Otters
Playful and curious, gliding through Yellowstone’s streams.