BY MISTY MILIOTO
For those seeking adventure travel, look no further than the wild terrain of Wyoming. The Cowboy State, as it is often known, is the least populated state in the nation with just over 580,000 residents (or roughly six people per square mile). It’s also the 10th largest state in the nation, meaning there is plenty of room to roam. And during the spring season, the state transforms into a nursery for wildlife. The sprawling land — with its high mountain ranges, vast high-elevation plains, and intermontane basins — is a scenic backdrop for baby animals in their natural habitat.
According to Hailey Mach, public relations manager at the Wyoming Office of Tourism, the state is home to two national parks, two national monuments, seven national wildlife refuge sites, eight national forests, and 12 state parks. “Visitors can find various species of wildlife across all of these areas, but Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, which make up the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, stand as a sanctuary for the largest concentration of wildlife in the lower 48 states,” she says. Visitors can expect to see an array of baby wildlife across Wyoming’s diverse terrains. “We have more than 800 [species] in our state,” says Amanda Fry, public information officer at the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.
In the spring — as the snow melts and the temperatures rise — grizzly bear cubs begin emerging from their dens. They can be spotted in Jackson Hole, as well as in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. “You may glimpse grizzly bears in northwest Wyoming, while black bears are more widely distributed in the state,” Fry says. “As always, it is important to give the bears their space, as mother bears can be extremely protective of their cubs.” Also in Yellowstone National Park, visitors can experience bison calving. These gentle giants roam free in the park, but smaller herds can also be seen at the Wind River Indian Reservation, Hot Springs State Park, Terry Bison Ranch, and Bear River State Park.
“Bison calving season begins late April through May, and calves will be visible in parts of northwest Wyoming all summer long,” Fry says. “While they start out a beautiful reddish color, this will wear out within a few months.” Meanwhile, moose, elk, black bear, and bighorn sheep can typically be spotted in Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Bighorn National Forest, the Mountains, and the Wind River Range. Deer and pronghorn (Wyoming has the largest number of pronghorns in North America) also can be spotted roaming freely in the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge and Keyhole State Park.
“Moose, deer, elk, and pronghorn typically have calves or fawns in late May through June, and can be found throughout the state,” Fry says. “They will stay close to their moms through early fall, and are considered young until the following spring. The best viewing time is late spring through fall.” While it is a bit more rare to spot mountain goats in the wild, those who are lucky may see them in places like the Beartooth Mountains north of Cody and the Palisades area south of Jackson.
“While seeing a baby animal in its natural habitat is undeniably adorable, the experience goes beyond just the cuteness factor,” Mach says. “It brings visitors closer to connecting with the land and appreciating the delicate balance of the ecosystem. It helps foster a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting and respecting our environment.” For those looking to see wildlife up close, Mach recommends booking a tour with a local wildlife guide. “They provide valuable insights into animal behavior, habitat preservation, and the role these creatures play in Wyoming’s diverse ecosystems, ensuring a more enriching and responsible wildlife experience,” she says. Of course, there are important rules to keep in mind.
“If you encounter a fawn or calf, do not approach, touch, or move the animal,” Fry says. “Fawns and calves are intentionally left alone and hidden by their mothers for the first few weeks of life. They are very vulnerable and instinctively remain quiet and still for most of the day. The mother comes regularly to feed the youngster but otherwise stays a distance away in order to prevent predators from locating the fawn.” If visitors happen to see a baby animal that appears to be in distress, Fry says it is best to contact a game warden or National Park Service personnel so they can assess the situation.
“Also, make sure you are in a properly designated area before you arrive and take advantage of the maps and resources available at the visitor centers throughout our state,” Fry says. “Going into a restricted or protected area can lead to legal ramifications. Be sure to check before you visit to ensure a fun and hassle-free visit.” Overall, Mach says that it’s important to be mindful custodians of the land in order to keep Wyoming wild and free. In fact, the Wyoming Office of Tourism (WOT) launched a WY Responsibly campaign in 2020 to educate and facilitate responsible travel by being stewards of Wyoming’s natural spaces, wildlife, communities, and culture.
“The WY Responsibly campaign focuses on educating visitors about the importance of preserving Wyoming’s wildlife and natural landscapes,” Mach says. “By providing key information on responsible outdoor practices — such as staying on designated trails, disposing of waste properly, and respecting wildlife habitats — the campaign empowers travelers to make environmentally conscious choices. Through education, WOT aims to foster a deeper appreciation for Wyoming’s unique ecosystems, encouraging sustainable tourism that helps protect the state’s natural beauty for future generations.”
For more, visit www.travelwyoming.com and https://wgfd.wyo.gov.
