Animals

Although a variety of wildlife can be seen on your visit to the Fort Smith National Historic Site today, the historic landscape, prior to and during the early period of European settlement, contained a greater amount and diversity of animals. Black bear, bison, elk, and the now extinct Passenger Pigeon were all common residents of the area where the Fort Smith National Historic Site is now located.

While walking the grounds keep and eye out for one of the park's many Fox Squirrels. These playful critters thrive on the park's abundant acorns, walnuts, and pecans. They also provide nearly constant entertainment to visitors. Please don't feed the wildlife.

 

Beaver

Cheryl Reynolds, Worth A Dam

Other mammals you might see include:

Pocket Gopher
Beaver
Coyote (rare)
Red Fox (rare)
Raccoon
Eastern Cottontail (rabbit)
Skunk
Possum

Fort Smith National Historic Site is an ideal place for birdwatchers (bird list).

Every fall, monarch butterflies migrate through the park on their way to Mexico.