Common Wildlife You Might Encounter in U.S. National Parks: What to Know and How to Stay Safe

National parks in the U.S. are breathtaking ecosystems filled with unique and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re exploring the majestic landscapes of Yellowstone, the desert vistas of Zion, or the dense forests of the Great Smoky Mountains, you’re bound to encounter wild animals along the way. But while these creatures are an essential part of the natural beauty, it’s crucial to remember that they are wild—and some of them can pose a risk to humans if not respected.

Here’s a guide to the most common wildlife you may encounter in U.S. national parks, along with essential safety tips to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animals you’ll meet.


1. Deer: Beautiful but Potentially Dangerous

? Species to Look For:

  • White-tailed deer – Common in parks like the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah.
  • Mule deer – Found in Zion and Yellowstone.

While deer are usually peaceful and elegant, they can still be dangerous—especially when they cross roads or become aggressive.

? Safety Tips:

  • Be cautious when driving – Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, and deer-vehicle collisions are a serious danger.
  • Never feed deer – Feeding them can cause them to lose their fear of humans, which leads to increased risk for both you and the animal.
  • Give them space – During mating season, male deer can become territorial and aggressive.

2. Coyotes: Stealthy and Intelligent Predators

? Where You’ll Find Them:

  • Coyotes are incredibly adaptable and can be found in almost every national park, including Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, and Joshua Tree.

Coyotes are omnivores with a varied diet, including small mammals, insects, and fruits. While they are usually shy, they can sometimes be more bold in populated areas, especially if they associate humans with food.

? Safety Tips:

  • Keep your distance – Coyotes are generally not dangerous to humans but will defend themselves if threatened.
  • Don’t leave food out – Avoid attracting coyotes with food scraps or pet food.
  • Leash your dog – Coyotes are known to attack small pets, so keep them on a leash at all times.

3. Bison: The Mighty Giant of the Plains

? Where You’ll Find Them:

  • Bison are iconic in Yellowstone, Badlands, and Custer State Park, where they roam freely in large herds.

Bison are massive and powerful creatures, weighing up to 2,000 pounds. While they generally prefer to graze quietly, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened, especially during calving season.

? Safety Tips:

  • Keep your distance – Stay at least 100 yards away from bison, as they can charge at incredible speeds.
  • Do not approach herds – Especially with calves, as the mother can become extremely protective.
  • Stay in your car – If you see bison near the road, stay inside your vehicle and wait for them to move.

4. Black Bears: A Cautious Presence in Many Parks

Where You’ll Find Them:

  • Great Smoky Mountains, Yosemite, and Rocky Mountain are some of the parks where black bears are commonly seen.

Black bears are typically non-aggressive toward humans, but their curiosity and incredible sense of smell can sometimes lead to bear encounters in campsites or near food. Bears may approach humans out of curiosity or to find food, but that doesn't mean they should be treated like pets!

? Safety Tips:

  • Store food properly – Use bear-proof containers or hang food 10 feet off the ground.
  • Keep your distance – If you see a bear, never approach it, and back away slowly if it seems interested in your food.
  • Carry bear spray – If you're in bear country, carry bear spray and know how to use it.

5. Rattlesnakes: Venomous But Shy

? Where You’ll Find Them:

  • Desert parks like Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree, and Saguaro are known to have several species of rattlesnakes.

Rattlesnakes are solitary creatures that often blend in with their surroundings, making them easy to overlook. Despite their venomous bites, rattlesnakes prefer to avoid humans and will often give a warning rattle if they feel threatened.

? Safety Tips:

  • Stay on the trail – Keep to well-trodden paths to avoid stepping on a hidden snake.
  • Listen for rattles – If you hear a rattling sound, stop immediately, back away, and find another route.
  • Wear appropriate footwear – High boots and long pants will protect you from accidental bites.

6. Mountain Lions: Elusive and Stealthy Predators

? Where You’ll Find Them:

  • Rocky Mountain, Zion, Yellowstone, and many western parks are known to have populations of mountain lions (also called cougars or pumas).

Mountain lions are extremely stealthy, often preferring to avoid humans. However, as their habitat shrinks due to human development, encounters with humans are becoming more common. These predators are very strong and can cover large distances in seconds.

? Safety Tips:

  • Don’t run – If you encounter a mountain lion, stand tall and face it. Do not run, as this may trigger a chase response.
  • Make yourself look bigger – Raise your arms, open your jacket, and make loud noises.
  • Back away slowly – Do not turn your back on the lion.
  • Protect pets – Small dogs and cats can attract mountain lions. Keep pets leashed and close to you.

7. Elk: Majestic but Protective

? Where You’ll Find Them:

  • Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Parks are home to large elk herds.

Elk are elegant creatures often spotted grazing near rivers or in open fields. However, during the rut (mating season) in the fall, male elk can become aggressive and protective of their harem, especially when they feel their territory is being invaded.

? Safety Tips:

  • Give elk spaceNever approach elk, especially during the rut.
  • Stay far away from herds – A male elk will aggressively defend its harem.
  • Be cautious during mating season – If you encounter a bull elk with antlers, keep your distance and observe from afar.

Final Thoughts: Respecting Nature in National Parks

U.S. national parks are home to diverse wildlife, from majestic bison to elusive mountain lions. While these animals are an essential part of the park’s ecosystem, it’s important to remember that they are wild—and should be treated with respect and caution.

? Give animals their space, and remember:

  • Always follow park guidelines and posted warnings.
  • Store food safely to avoid attracting animals.
  • If you encounter a bear, cougar, or any large predator, always prioritize your safety by staying calm and backing away slowly.

By respecting these simple safety tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible wildlife in our national parks while keeping yourself and the animals safe. Happy exploring!

Got Wildlife or Pests? 

If you think that your property has a wildlife or pest infestation problem, don't hesitate to reach out to us by calling 855-WILDLIFE or by visiting www.wildlifexteam.com for more information. 

Thanks! 

-Wildlife x Team International

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