Pipestone National Monument is home to many animal species. Among the more popular and visible residents are; thirteen-lined ground squirrels, great blue herons, snapping turtles, and beaver.  During the spring and fall months, bird watching is a popular activity at the Monument with many migratory species present.

The prairie and riparian (stream) ecosystems support a great diversity of wildlife. There are over twenty-five mammalian species, over one hundred bird species, approximately twenty-five fish species, eight reptiles and amphibians, and numerous insect families. Check out the photos and details under each group of animals for more information.