Wildlife in Yellowstone A Month-by-Month Guide

As a wildlife enthusiast, I find Yellowstone National Park to be an absolute paradise. Spanning over 2.2 million acres, it offers an incredible array of animals thriving in diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Each month in Yellowstone brings its own unique wildlife sightings and behaviors, making every visit a distinct adventure. This month-by-month guide will share what you can expect to see and how these magnificent creatures adapt to the changing seasons, providing insights that will enhance your experience and help you make the most of your time in this extraordinary natural wonder.

January

In January, Yellowstone's hardy bison dominate the snowy landscape, using their massive heads to sweep snow aside in search of vegetation. This is also prime time to see wolves, particularly in the Lamar Valley, as they are more active during daylight hours while hunting elk and other prey. Elk move to lower elevations and valleys to forage, with bulls having shed their antlers by now. Coyotes, easily spotted against the snow, hunt small mammals and scavenge carrion.

February

Bison continue to thrive in the snowy landscape, often seen in thermal areas where the ground is warmer. February marks the beginning of the wolves' breeding season, increasing their activity and howling as they communicate with pack members. Moose are often found in willow flats and river areas, foraging on willows and other woody vegetation. Bald eagles are commonly seen near open water, hunting for fish and scavenging on winter-killed animals.

March

As temperatures gradually increase in March, bison start moving to higher elevations. Wolves have pups born in late March, leading to increased pack activity around den sites. Both grizzly and black bears begin to emerge from hibernation, and tracks in the snow hint at their movements. Early migratory birds, such as Canada geese and trumpeter swans, begin to return, heralding the onset of spring.

April

April brings the sight of newborn bison calves, often called "red dogs" due to their orange color. Bears are actively foraging as they replenish lost body weight and can be seen near rivers and streams. Elk and deer shed their winter coats and begin to migrate to higher ground. Beavers become more visible as they repair dams and lodges damaged during winter.

May

In May, large herds of bison with numerous calves can be seen in the Lamar and Hayden Valleys. Bears, both grizzlies and black bears, are often spotted digging for roots and tubers or searching for young vegetation. Elk females begin calving, and their newborns are hidden in tall grass to avoid predators. Migratory birds like mountain bluebirds and sandhill cranes return, filling the air with bird song.

June

June is a bustling month for Yellowstone's wildlife. Bison calves grow stronger, and large herds continue to thrive. Bears are active throughout the park, with cubs exploring under the watchful eyes of their mothers. Elk calves start to be seen more regularly as they become more active. Wolf pups begin to venture out of the den, though still reliant on adults for food. Pronghorn antelope can be seen in open areas, often with their young.

July

In July, bison herds move to higher elevations to graze. Bears forage intensively on a variety of plants, berries, and insects. Elk are visible in higher meadows, with males starting to grow new antlers. Coyote pups start learning to hunt. Bird activity peaks, with osprey fishing in rivers and teaching their young to hunt.

August

August sees bison continuing to graze in high meadows. Bears are preparing for hibernation by increasing their food intake. Elk males' antlers are fully grown, and they begin to shed their velvet in preparation for the rut. Wolves roam more widely as pups grow stronger. Bald eagles and ospreys are actively fishing and teaching their young to hunt.

September

In September, bison start moving back to lower elevations. The elk rutting season begins, with bulls seen and heard bugling and sparring. Bears intensify their foraging, often seen in berry patches. Moose rutting season also begins, making males more visible as they search for mates. Wolf pack activity increases as they hunt larger prey.

October

October sees bison continuing to move to lower valleys. Elk rut winds down, and elk start migrating to winter ranges. Bears engage in last-minute foraging before hibernation begins. Wolves remain active, preparing for winter. Migratory birds begin their journey south, adding a sense of transition to the park.

November

In November, bison form large herds in lower valleys and near geothermal areas. Elk concentrate in lower elevations as they migrate to winter ranges. Bears enter hibernation and denning starts. Wolves find hunting more challenging, relying heavily on teamwork. Snowshoe hares and weasels start changing their coats to white for winter camouflage.

December

By December, bison are grazing in valleys and around thermal features. Wolves are often seen hunting and patrolling territories. Elk concentrate in lower elevations, while coyotes remain active and visible against the snow, hunting small mammals. Bald eagles are often seen near rivers, scavenging and hunting as they adapt to the colder conditions.

Yellowstone's wildlife adapts remarkably to the changing seasons, offering unique viewing opportunities year-round. Whether you're hoping to see a bison herd navigating a snowstorm or hear the haunting call of an elk during the rut, every month provides a different glimpse into the lives of these incredible animals. Plan your visit accordingly, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Year-round Wildlife Tours

Wildscape Adventures offers year-round wildlife tours in Yellowstone National Park, providing unparalleled opportunities to witness the park’s diverse fauna in every season. With options for both three-day immersive experiences and convenient one-day excursions, Wildscape Adventures caters to all types of adventurers. Their expert guides lead you through the park's most iconic landscapes, ensuring you encounter bison, wolves, bears, elk, and more, all while sharing insights into their behaviors and habitats. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious first-time visitor, Wildscape Adventures promises unforgettable encounters with Yellowstone's magnificent wildlife.