Yellowstone Wildlife

Keystone Species of Yellowstone

Yellowstone’s abundant and diverse wildlife are as famous as its geysers. There are nearly 300 species of birds, 16 species of fish, five species of amphibians, six species of reptiles, and 67 species of mammals—including seven native ungulate species and two bear species. A keystone species is an organism that helps hold the system together.

As wildlife guides, we can never guarantee sitings, however we will provide the most optimal chance for you to experience a range of wildlife. We will remain a safe respectful distance from all wildlife, using scopes to observe their behaviors in their natural habitats. Do not expect close-up zoo encounters, these are wild animals, free to move as they wish. Our guides will customize your experience to your interests and share how everything interconnects as a living ecosystem.

Wolves

As apex predators, wolves regulate herbivore populations (like elk and bison), which in turn affects vegetation growth and diversity. 

Bison

These large herbivores contribute to healthy grasslands by aerating the soil with their hooves and grazing patterns, playing a vital role in restoring grasslands, sagebrush steppes, and prairie habitats. 

Elk

Elk are a keystone species as they are a large portion of the ecosystem and serve as prey for many predators, including wolves and coyotes. 

Beavers

Beavers, as ecosystem engineers, build dams and divert streams, creating wetlands and other habitats that support a wide variety of wildlife. 

Grizzly Bears

Grizzly bears are a keystone species in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and play many important roles within the larger ecosystem. 

Cutthroat Trout

Yellowstone Cutthroat trout are native to the cold, clear lakes, streams, and rivers of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem and are a keystone species of the region.