30 Incredible Animals You Can See in U.S National Parks

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Visiting a National Park in the United States means experiencing stunning landscapes. Amidst the wilderness, the U.S National Parks house some incredible and magnificent animals. Some roar deep within the forests, whereas others meet you right in the middle of the road; the encounters are mesmerizing. Here are 30 incredible animals you can see in U.S National Parks. 

American Bison

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American bison, also referred to as buffalo, are the largest land mammals in North America. They used to roam the Great Plains in massive herds but nearly went to extinction in the latter part of the century. American Bison is now predominantly found in designated regions such as national parks, and it represents strength and resilience.

Grizzly Bear

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The grizzly bear is one of the most awe-inspiring and feared carnivores in North America. These forest giants command respect. With their unique humped shoulder and huge size, they hunt in remote wilderness locations. The Yellowstone National Park is a popular place to spot them.

Bald Eagle

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The national bird of the United States is the bald eagle. These large majestic birds are found throughout the nation, whether in remote wilderness or in populated areas. One can observe bald eagles within Yellowstone, Olympic, or Acadia National Park. They are often photographed and are very popular amongst wildlife photographers.

Mountain Lion

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The extremely powerful mountain lions are a pride of our national parks. They are found across mountains and deserts and are known for their exceptional hunting skills. Mountain lions are also known as pumas or cougars. To spot them within their natural habitats, there is no better place than the Grand Canyon National Park.

Gray Wolf

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Gray wolves, once common throughout North America, are social predators known for their intellect and complex pack dynamics. They live throughout Yellowstone National Park, along with a few selective ones. Despite being extinct from the majority of their range, effective reintroduction has brought them back in large numbers. They are worth photographing.

Moose

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The largest member of the deer family, the moose, is a well-known resident of the northern forests and marshes. They are commonly found in the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming and the Yellowstone National Park. Moose are herbivores known for their large legs, prominent noses, and noticeable antlers (in males). They are beautiful to watch.

Elk

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Elk, occasionally referred to as wapiti, are one of the largest deers in the world. Beautiful male elks have bugling cries that they use to lure their mates throughout the mating season. Elks are common at Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve and are abundantly found in Yellowstone and the regions of Montana and Idaho. 

Black Bear

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The most common bear species in North America are the black bears. They are highly adaptable omnivores and can survive in various habitats, including forests and wetlands. Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee is home to nearly 1500 black bears. However, despite their name, these bulky animals are found in cinnamon and white colors as well.

Bighorn Sheep

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Bighorn sheeps are one of the most skilled climbers. These animals are found in different parts of the nation, particularly in the Zion National Park and Badlands National Park in South Dakota. They are known for their huge, curving horns and survival skills in harsh alpine habitats. Bighorn sheeps are sure-footed herbivores that can easily navigate high cliffs. 

Red Fox

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Red foxes are present across different parts of North America, particularly in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. These beautiful animals are known for their bushy tails and bright red hair.  Being foxes, they are highly versatile and opportunistic hunters. They commonly feed on small mammals, birds, and insects and may sometimes eat even fruits. 

Coyote

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Coyotes are a popular animal in America and are found across various national parks. These versatile and intelligent canines are often mistaken as predators. Some of the popular places to spot coyotes are the Death Valley and Grand Canyon National Park. Coyotes are not just other animals but play an important role in rodent management.

Pronghorn

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Pronghorn are the fastest land mammals in North America. They are an iconic species of the American West. With its unique white rump patch and exceptional speed, it evolved alongside cheetahs, now-extinct predators like the American cheetah. It lives in wide grasslands and deserts, and is found in Yellowstone National Park.

Bobcat

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Bobcats are very clever and elusive predators. These medium-sized wild cats live across North America. They are commonly found in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, White Sands, and the Grand Canyon National Park. Their tufted ears and short tails, along with their expert hunting skills, make them quite popular. 

Alligator

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The American alligator is a big reptile that lives in freshwater ecosystems such as swamps, marshes, and rivers. Their highest population is in and around Everglades National Park in Florida. Alligators are top predators that eat fish, turtles, birds, and mammals. They are crucial for maintaining the health of wetland ecosystems.

Sea Otter

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Sea otters are marine mammals that live along the Pacific coast of North America. They are known for their lively temperament and dense fur. Common across Alaska, sea otters are found in Kenai Fjords National Park and Glacier Bay National Park. These fascinating creatures spend the majority of their time floating on their backs.

Mountain Goat

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As the name implies, mountain goats are well-suited to survive in harsh mountain conditions. Their striking white coats and outstanding climbing ability allow them to explore cliffs and rugged terrain easily. Mountain goats are herbivores, and one can spot them at Glacier National Park, Montana. They are also common in steep and broken mountain ranges of northwestern America.

Wild Turkey

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The wild turkey is an enormous game bird that lives in forests and grasslands across North America. It is a symbol of American tradition and wilderness. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has the highest number of these avians. The male turkey, or tom, is desirable to females due to their iridescent plumage and dramatic display during mating season.

Humpback Whales

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Humpback whales are gorgeous aquatic mammals. They are present across all the major oceans of the world. Enthusiasts can spot these aquatic beauties at the Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska. They are visible throughout the summer, and it is common to spot them. 

White-Tailed deer

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The white-tailed deer are beautiful herbivores found all across North America. They call the Great Smoky Mountains National Park home. However, it is tricky to spot them in areas like Alaska, California, Nevada, and Utah since they are nearly absent there. White-tailed deer are adaptable in a variety of habitats.

Wolverine

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The largest member of the weasel family is the wolverine. These animals are popular for their fierceness and elusiveness. Wolverines are commonly found in Yellowstone National Park. They live in remote wilderness locations and are known for their power and perseverance. Besides Yellowstone, they are also present in smaller populations in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. 

Lynx

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Want to see some fierce cats in our national parks? If so, then visit the Glacier National Park and check out Lynx. These medium-sized wild cats are strong, have prominent facial expressions, and can scare you in a single encounter. They love staying alone and exploring the forests throughout North America, Eurasia, and northern Africa. 

Brown Pelican

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Brown pelicans are large water birds known for their long bills and a pouch on the throat. They are commonly found in the Channel Islands National Park of California during winters. During summer, they nest in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and the southeastern coast. However, brown pelicans are an endangered species in the United States.

Beaver

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Beavers are well-known for their ability to create advanced dams and lodges in freshwater settings. No wonder these animals are also known as “nature’s engineers.” Beavers, with their big, flat tails and webbed hind paws, are well-adapted to aquatic life. They are most common in Yellowstone, Zion, Acadia, and Grand Teton National Parks.

Harbor Seal

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Harbor seals are one of the most extensively spread pinnipeds. They live around the coastlines of the northern hemisphere. They are commonly found in Glacier Bay National Park and Channel Islands National Park. Their sleek bodies and spotted coats are well-suited for water life. 

California Condor

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Did you know that the California condor has a wingspan of up to ten feet? Yes, it is one of the largest flying birds in the world. Once on the verge of extinction, focused conservation efforts have managed to boost its numbers. These birds are now commonly found in the Grand Canyon. 

Porcupine

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Found in White Sands National Park, Porcupines are nocturnal herbivores with sharp quills. They live in woods and grasslands throughout North and South America and use their quills for self-defense when threatened. They eat bark, twigs, and foliage and use their sharp teeth to bite through hard and woody plants.

Mule Deer

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Mule deer can be found in western North America. They are easily visible in Yosemite National Park, especially in Yosemite Valley. They are adaptable and can live in a variety of environments, from deserts to mountains and beyond. Mule deer are herbivores that mostly graze on shrubs, grasses, and forbs.

Wild Boar

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Wild boars, often known as feral pigs or wild hogs, are among the most interesting species in the United States’ national parks. They are extremely adaptive and invasive animals. Wild boars can survive in a variety of environments, including woods, grasslands, and marshes. In the United States, you can find them in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

Gray Whale

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Gray whales are known for their annual migration. They migrate along the Pacific coast of North America, one of the longest of any mammal. These gigantic marine mammals are found in the Channel Islands National Park and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. They graze on bottom-dwelling creatures such as amphipods. 

Raccoon

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Found in Sequoia National Park, raccoons are popular for their typical face mask and ringed tail. These adaptable and intelligent omnivores are present throughout North and Central America. They are nocturnal and expert climbers and foragers. They eat a range of fruits, nuts, insects, and small vertebrates. Raccoons are frequently seen near water sources, washing their food before eating.

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