NPS Photo / Daniel Leifheit
Denali's abundant and diverse wildlife are just as famous as its tallest mountain, Mount McKinley, which towers above the landscape at 20,310’ tall. In fact, Denali was the first national park created to protect wildlife. Now, this park is home to 39 species of mammals, 169 species of birds, and 1 lonely species of amphibian.
Explore the sections below to learn more about the wildlife that find a sanctuary within these boundaries.
A goal for many visitors is to see a grizzly bear lumbering through the tundra, Denali is home to 39 mammals that vary from shrews to moose.
Traveling where wild animals live can be intimidating even for the most savvy hiker. Have a fun, safe visit by following these guidelines.
Denali has over 160 species of birds that call the park home during the summer months, but far fewer remain during the chilly winter days.
There are no reptiles found this far north. However, there is a single species of amphibian that is adapted for life in the cold.
Bears and moose can capture a visitor's attention. But, did you know that the vast majority of Denali critters are less than an inch long?
Stories of Wildlife and Wildlife Research
Last updated: February 3, 2025