Lamar Valley - Predators and Prey

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

Quick Facts

Location:

Northeast Area

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Wolves eat a wide variety of prey, large and small. They efficiently hunt large prey that other predators cannot usually kill.

In Yellowstone, 90% of their winter prey is elk. In the summer, 10 to 15% of their summer prey is deer. They also can kill bison.

Many other animals benefit from wolf kills. For example, when wolves kill an elk, ravens arrive almost immediately. Coyotes arrive soon after, waiting nearby until the wolves are satisfied.

Bears will attempt to chase the wolves away, and are usually successful. Many other animals consume the remains, from magpies to invertebrates.

The northern range of Yellowstone is one of the best places in the world to watch wolves.

Animals are Dangerous

• Do not approach or feed any animal.
• Bison and elk have injured people.
• Stay 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves.
• Stay 25 yards (23 m) from all other animals.

You are responsible for your safety.

Think Safety, Act Safely. Yellowstone is a Dangerous Place.