Yes, moose live in Yellowstone, but seeing one is never guaranteed. They are only one part of a wildlife community that includes 67 mammal species, from bison and elk to wolves, bears and smaller mammals. Your best chance of a good sighting is to watch patiently from a safe distance—not to approach an animal for a closer look.
Can you really see moose in Yellowstone?
Yes. Moose are present in Yellowstone and are the largest members of the deer family found there. But a visit does not guarantee a sighting: wildlife moves around, and what you see depends on where and when you look. Treat a moose as a possible encounter, not a scheduled attraction.
Yellowstone’s wildlife also moves across the park boundary. The National Park Service’s population figures cover different areas and dates, so they should not be read as a single count of animals inside the park.
What animals live in Yellowstone?
The National Park Service lists 67 mammal species in the park. Its large mammals include eight hoofed herbivores and seven large predators; many smaller mammals round out the community.
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Hoofed herbivores
- Bighorn sheep
- Bison
- Elk
- Moose
- Mountain goats
- Mule deer
- Pronghorn
- White-tailed deer
Large predators
- Black bears
- Canada lynx
- Coyotes
- Grizzly bears
- Mountain lions
- Wolverines
- Wolves
Smaller mammals
The 67-species total includes mammals beyond these large, readily recognized animals. The NPS species list is the place to check the full roster: Yellowstone’s mammals.
What do Yellowstone’s population figures mean?
These National Park Service figures describe different populations, dates and geographic areas. In particular, the grizzly estimate is for the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, not just the national park.
| Animal | Figure | Area and date |
|---|---|---|
| Grizzly bears | Estimated 1,030 | Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, 2024 |
| Gray wolves | At least 108 | Living primarily in Yellowstone, as of January 2025 |
| Bison | Approximately 5,400 | Yellowstone, as of August 2024 |
These are dated snapshots, not predictions of how many animals a visitor will encounter. Seasonal and migratory movements, as well as animals’ movement beyond park boundaries, affect what may be visible during a particular visit.
How can you get a good wildlife view safely?
Bring binoculars or a telephoto lens. The National Park Service notes that “Binoculars and telephoto lenses always give you a better view than approaching the animal would.” Give yourself time to scan the landscape, and watch from your vehicle or a designated pullout when that is practical. If an animal is distant or partly hidden, keep observing rather than closing the gap.
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For a hike or camp, carry EPA-approved bear spray where you can reach it quickly. NPS describes bear spray as a deterrent, not a repellent; it is a safety measure, not a reason to approach wildlife.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How close can you get to wildlife in Yellowstone?
Stay at least 100 yards (91 m) from bears, wolves and cougars, and at least 25 yards (23 m) from all other wildlife. These are minimum distances; give an animal more room if it changes its behavior or moves toward you. The NPS warning is direct: “The animals in Yellowstone are wild and dangerous, no matter how docile they may appear to be.” See the National Park Service’s Yellowstone safety guidance for details.
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