Mammals

Wind Cave National Park is home to North America's heaviest mammal, the bison, and many other iconic prairie mammals. Follow the links below to find more information on some of Wind Cave's common mammal species. A complete mammal list can be found below, as well as park-specific research and news articles.
 
A bison laying in the grass.
Bison

Learn about the park's most iconic animal, the American Bison.

a tan ferret with a black mask and black legs
Black Footed Ferret

Black-footed ferrets were reintroduced to the park in 2007.

Two badger cubs are resting above their den.
American Badger

Two badger cubs above their burrow.

Prairie Dogs are holding hands while another keeps lookout.
Prairie Dog

Prairie dogs are the most common rodent in Wind Cave National Park.

male elk with large antlers covered in velvet
Elk

Rocky Mountain elk are one of the park's most elusive residents.

a tan and white male pronghorn.
Pronghorn

Pronghorns are the fastest land mammal in North America.

a male deer with antlers
Mule Deer

Mule deer are commonly observed around the visitor center. Learn more about these deer.

A coyote stands in the grass
Coyote

Coyotes are the most commonly spotted predator in Wind Cave National Park.

A small brown bat clinging to a tall pine tree
Bats

Bats found in Wind Cave are very small and about the size of a mouse. Bats in the park prefer to roost in trees and rocky overhangs.

a large brown cat.
Felines

Bobcats and mountain lions are rarely seen in the park.

 

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More About Wind Cave Mammals

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    Last updated: October 4, 2023

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    26611 US Highway 385
    Hot Springs, SD 57747

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    605 745-4600

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