Travelers visit Idaho from all over to check out the state’s stunning landscapes, but it isn’t just people intrigued; the state’s diverse ecosystems make great homes for amazing wildlife. The stunning landscapes, ranging from expansive forests to pristine lakes, provide a habitat for a remarkable array of wildlife.
For travelers seeking an unforgettable experience, Idaho promises encounters with some of the most intriguing and famous species, making it a haven for outdoor adventures. The team at Rocky Mountain Elk Ranch is here to give you a preview of some of the wildlife you should keep an eye out for when in Idaho.
Wildlife in Idaho: Land, Air, & Water Critters
Whether on land, in the air, or in the water, Idaho has a wide range of intriguing wildlife. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the diverse avian population, including bald eagles, ospreys, and peregrine falcons. The state bird, the mountain bluebird, is another exciting sighting; you can recognize this bird by the male’s pale blue coloring that gets darker on its back.
The fish found in Idaho’s pristine waterways draw anglers from far and wide. The Snake River, coursing through the state, provides an ideal environment for fishing enthusiasts, where they can catch prized species like cutthroat trout and steelhead. Other highlights include salmon, bass, and mountain whitefish. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a white sturgeon, which can reach 20 feet at maturity.
Idaho’s waters also attract some of the state’s most recognizable mammals. The mighty grizzly bear can be found around Yellowstone National Park and in the northern parts of the state. Sharing the waterways with these mighty bears are the playful river otters, sleek and agile inhabitants of Idaho’s rivers and lakes. Sightings of both of these creatures are rare, but a lucky few see them.
Undoubtedly, the best spot for wildlife watching in Idaho is Yellowstone National Park, which extends into the eastern part of Idaho. This park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, which makes it an attractive home for many different species. Visitors can marvel at the natural wonders of the park, including the famous Old Faithful geyser while observing the resident herds of bison, coyote, elk, and wolves that roam freely in this pristine wilderness. Bring your binoculars; you can watch wildlife in Yellowstone from sunrise to sunset and never get bored.
Elk in Idaho
One of Idaho’s iconic species is the majestic elk. These magnificent creatures, with their impressive antlers and imposing stature, are a common sight in the state’s vast wilderness. The rugged terrain, dense forests, and open meadows make Idaho an ideal home for elk, offering them the perfect blend of shelter and sustenance.
For those seeking a guided elk hunting experience in Idaho, look no further than Rocky Mountain Elk Ranch. We offer success-guaranteed elk hunts; no matter your skill level, we’ll tailor the hunts to suit your desires, and you’ll walk away with forever memories, your trophy, and delicious elk meat. Come experience our guided elk hunts and enjoy wonderful accommodations at our well-appointed lodge. Please visit our about us page or call 208-351-7301 for more information.