Animals

Snowshoe Hares may be found at Big Hole National Battlefield.

NPS photo

Diverse Animal Life

Big Hole National Battlefield is home to a wide array of animal species, including amphibians, birds, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates. The flowing Big Hole River attracts and sustains a variety of wildlife, where visitors may spot mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), moose (Alces alces), and elk (Cervus elaphus). From the mighty elk to the tiniest ant, this diverse ecosystem highlights the importance of protecting species of all sizes.

Mammals, Reptiles, and Amphibians

A 2002 study confirmed the presence of 31 mammal species within Big Hole National Battlefield, alongside four species of herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians). Notably, both the western toad (Bufo boreas) and the gray wolf (Canis lupus) are considered “species of special concern” by the Montana Natural Heritage Program, indicating their vulnerable status in the region.

Birds and Sensitive Species

While the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) occasionally appears in the park, it is not a year-round resident. Other sensitive species that may be spotted at Big Hole include:

• Montana Arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus), a unique fish native to cold-water streams
• Mountain plover (Charadrius montanus), a ground-nesting bird of open grasslands
• Swift fox (Vulpes velox), one of North America’s smallest canines
• Great gray owl (Strix nebulosa) and Boreal owl (Aegolius funereus), both of which prefer forested habitats and are known for their elusive nature.

 

Some Nez Perce called the Big Hole Valley the "place of the ground squirrels." Visitors frequently see these critters in the summer.

NSP photo

A Rich Array of Species

Big Hole National Battlefield hosts a diverse range of wildlife, including amphibians, reptiles, and mammals, each playing a vital role in the park’s ecosystem. Here are some notable species and their Nez Perce (nimí·pu·) names, highlighting the cultural and environmental significance of these animals to the area.

Key Species

• Columbia Spotted Frog (Rana luteiventris)

  • Nez Perce Name: wexwe’qt
  • The most widely distributed and abundant amphibian in the park.

• Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis elegans)

  • Nez Perce Name: pa’yos
  • The most common reptile in the battlefield, found throughout various habitats.

• Abundant Mammals

  • Columbian Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus columbianus) – ta’tlo
  • Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) – la’qac
  • Meadow Vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus)
  • Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)
  • Western Jumping Mouse (Zapus princeps)

Larger Mammals and Birds

• Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)

  • Nez Perce Name: te’wisin

• Moose (Alces alces)

  • Nez Perce Name: sa’slaqs

• Elk (Cervus elaphus)

  • Nez Perce Name: wise’w

• Gray Wolf (Canis lupus)

  • Nez Perce Name: hi’min
  • A species of special concern due to its vulnerable status.

• Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

  • Nez Perce Name: saqanta’yx

• Swift Fox (Vulpes velox)

  • Nez Perce Name: tili’pcxi