The Jackson Hole country, long famous for its big game, is the home of one of the world’s largest elk herds. The elk, or wapiti, have been the most important big-game animals in Jackson Hole since the occupancy of white men. In the spring they leave the low country of the park and the National Elk Refuge, near the town of Jackson, and move toward the highlands surrounding the valley. When snowfall comes in the high country the elk return to the refuge, which is administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Interior.

Shiras moose, the most commonly seen big game animal, is frequently observed in the smaller ponds and marshy meadows. The moose, largest member of the deer family, is not as wary as other deer. Mule deer are increasing in the park and environs, and, though quite shy, are often seen along the trails by hikers and horseback riders.

Small herds of bighorn, or Rocky Mountain sheep, range in isolated sections of the park, and bears may be found in the mountains and canyons.

Beavers, martens, minks, weasels, coyotes, marmots, conies, and rabbits inhabit the park, and ground squirrels and chipmunks are numerous. More than 100 species of birds may be identified by the careful observer.