It often seems that birdwatching is not on the minds of most visitors who come to see all the geothermal attractions and wildlife. But there are plentiful birds to see here, too. Some of the Park's best birding can be found by driving from West Thumb on Yellowstone Lake east and north to Tower and west to Mammoth Hot Springs. There are 311 recorded species of birds (148 are nesting species) in Yellowstone.

At differing elevations and within various habitats, you are likely to see species such as the Trumpeter swan, Calliope hummingbird, red-naped sapsucker, gray and Steller's jays, Clark's nutcracker, western meadowlark, black-capped and mountain chickadee, and the bald eagle and other raptors. Ask Park naturalists about any recent sightings and about the chances of seeing the various and often elusive species. Be a responsible birder and try not to disturb the birds or other wildlife for their and your own safety. Visit Ultimate Yellowstone Park for more birdwatching information.