Wildlife, Wonders & Wilderness

Wildlife, Wonders & Wilderness

Yellowstone is home to the largest concentration of wildlife in the lower 48 states, and is important habitat for endangered and threatened species. It is also home to more geysers, hot springs, and other hydrothermal features than the rest of the world combined. The Yellowstone Park Foundation supports wildlife, geology, science, ecosystem health, and education projects that preserve Yellowstone's natural resources.

 

Upcoming Projects

With sustained funding, the Yellowstone Park Foundation will be able to address the Park’s emerging and anticipated needs in the area of Wildlife, Wilderness and Wonders, such as:

  • Elk-Wolf Study - Yellowstone biologists are just beginning a study of how two signature park species -- elk and wolves -- interact in the ecosystem. Both wolves and elk will be collared to facilitate tracking and data collection. The newest GPS collar technology is being employed, and it allows for virtually "real-time" tracking of elk movements. The purpose of the collaring is to more fully examine wolf-elk relationships movement and habitat behavior in the greater Yellowstone area.
  • Raptor Study, Years Two and Three - 2012 was the second year of the Yellowstone Raptor Initiative. The focus in the summer of 2012 was on red-tailed hawks and golden eagles. Golden eagles are of special concern because their populations may be declining due to wind power development. Other raptors are also being monitored, including kestrels and Swainson's hawks. In Year Three, 2013, owls are a particular area of focus.