A highlight of a visit to Yosemite National Park is encountering one of the many endangered species that calls the park home. While many have been rescued and bred to prevent total endangerment, some populations are still scarce. Peregrine falcons are one of the birds on this list. The Peregrine Falcon is a rare bird that was almost entirely wiped out by the chemical DDT in the 1950s. The Peregrine Falcon is one of the fastest birds in the world, reaching speeds of over 70 miles per hour when diving for prey. The golden eagle is also an endangered bird that calls Yosemite home. With wingspans between 60 and 96 inches, they are some of the largest in the subspecies of Aquila. Often found perched alongside mountains or at high elevations, the golden eagle can be difficult to spot at the park. The bighorn sheep is a popular animal often found in valleys and rocky terrain deep in the park. With their large, curved, 30-pounds antlers, they are not hard to miss. The sheep have battled extinction with the help of the Boy Scouts, who have raised money for private game ranges and refuges.
Birds are prevalent at Yosemite and are one of the main attractions that draw visitors to the park each year. The Red Tailed Hawk is the one of the most recognized birds of prey in the park. The hawk's red-feathered tail makes it easy to spot in trees and mountainsides. The Stellars Jay is a blue feathered bird with a black chest, often bothersome to park guests. Known as the picnic thief, the Stellar is prone to snatching picnic foods when least expected. The Dark Eyed Junco is admired by photographers because of its black cap and white-tailed feathers. For the owl lovers, the Great Grey Owl is the largest owl at the park. Often nestled in the tall oak woodland section of the park, they are very photogenic.
While fishing is allowed in designated areas at the park, many fish can be also seen from observation decks and while canoeing. The rainbow trout is the most popular and prevalent fish in Yosemite Valley. They are easily recognized by rainbow-colored scales and dark pink bands that stretch across their bodies. The California Roach, Hardhead, Riffle Sculpin and the Sacramento Sucker are some other fish species found at the park.
Yosemite is full of four-legged friends that bring character and charm to this national park. The Mule Deer is one of the most popular and easiest animals to locate in the park. Often found in grassy meadows, near rivers and crossing trails, this deer is easily recognized by its distinct black tail.
Many coyotes call Yosemite home. While most are friendly and will not bother humans unless cornered or taunted, walking up to one is not recommended. Coyotes do most of their hunting at night and early morning and rest during the day.
Squirrels such as the California Ground Squirrel and the Western Grey Squirrel are found throughout the park. The California Ground is found only in the summer months due to hibernation. The Western Grey sticks around all year but is most common during winter months. The Western can be distinguished from the Ground Squirrel because of its bushy tail.
Mountain Lions are a special treat to see at the park. They are typically well camouflaged and very private---they prefer to keep humans at a distance. Observation is recommended from several hundred feet away. Binoculars are a great tool for locating and observing most animals at the park.
One of the most dominant wildlife creatures at Yosemite is the Black Bear. Highly intelligent yet very curious, the black bear actually admires humans. While the black bear is one of the most known species to gather at Yosemite, it can often be mistaken for other bears due to the variations in color. Off-white, blond or cinnamon in color, the hair color often changes throughout the season. Generally friendly toward humans and highly drawn to human food, caution should still be taken if a bear approaches. Slowly moving away from the bear's path and not attempting to take food away from the bear are strongly suggested.
