Badlands National Park, located in South Dakota, is a dynamic ecosystem that hosts an impressive array of wildlife adapted to its rugged terrain and mixed-grass prairie environment. The park’s dramatic landscapes of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires are home to large mammals like bison, bighorn sheep, and pronghorns, which roam the open grasslands. Prairie dogs are a common sight, creating extensive colonies that serve as critical habitats for other species, including the endangered black-footed ferret. Bird enthusiasts can spot raptors such as hawks and eagles soaring overhead, along with a variety of songbirds and migratory species. Reptiles like rattlesnakes and turtles also inhabit the park, thriving in its diverse habitats.
The wildlife of Badlands National Park not only adds to its ecological richness but also provides visitors with opportunities to witness the intricate balance of life in one of North America’s most unique and striking natural settings. Keep reading to see featured photos of Badlands’ wildlife and to learn more about wildlife photography.
Featured Badlands National Park Wildlife Photographs
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Wildlife Photography Tips
Wildlife photography in the US National Parks offers a unique and enriching experience, as these protected areas are havens for diverse species and pristine natural landscapes. Capturing wildlife in such settings requires preparation and respect for both the environment and its inhabitants. Photographers should familiarize themselves with the specific animals and ecosystems of the park they are visiting, as each park hosts different species and behaviors. Early mornings and late afternoons, known as the golden hours, provide the best light and increased wildlife activity. Different seasons also offer different wildlife viewing opportunities. Patience and stillness are key, as the best moments often come to those who wait quietly.
If wildlife does present itself, always make sure to maintain a safe distance. Using a telephoto lens allows for close-up shots without intruding on the animals’ space. If you already own or want to own a professional grade mirrored camera like the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame Digital SLR, we recommend using a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L is II USM Lens zoom lens for wildlife photography. If you have or are interested in a newer mirrorless model like the Canon EOS R5 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera, we recommend using a Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 is USM Black for long distance shots.
Not quite ready to invest in traditional professional grade camera equipment, but want to enhance the quality of your cell phone photographs? Consider using a Moment 58mm Tele Lens for an improved zoom and be sure you have a compatible phone case to mount your new lens in. Since cell phones don’t have the same zoom distance and quality as traditional professional cameras, be extra mindful about your distance from wildlife when photographing them and don’t get too close. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while photographing wildlife.
Badlands Wildlife Education and Resources
Want to learn more about Badlands National Park and the wildlife that inhabits it? Check out these guides & books:
- Peterson Field Guide To Mammals Of North America: Fourth Edition (Peterson Field Guides)
- Peterson Field Guide To Birds Of Eastern & Central North America, Seventh Ed. (Peterson Field Guides)
- Peterson Field Guide To Birds Of Western North America, Fifth Edition (Peterson Field Guides)
- Bird Songs: 250 North American Birds in Song
- Peterson Field Guide To Reptiles And Amphibians Eastern & Central North America (Peterson Field Guides)
- Peterson Field Guide To Western Reptiles & Amphibians, Fourth Edition (Peterson Field Guides)
- Peterson Field Guide to Freshwater Fishes, Second Edition (Peterson Field Guides)
- Animal Tracks: A Folding Pocket Guide to the Tracks & Signs of Familiar North American Species (Wildlife and Nature Identification)
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Badlands National Park Species List
The wildlife at Badlands National Park is beautiful and diverse. There are a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish to view. Check out all the incredible species this park has to offer! Click on the links below to see the different animal species that inhabit Badlands National Park:
Badlands National Park Mammals
| Name | Abundance |
|---|---|
*It is not known for certain if this species is actually in the park. This species is marked by the National Park Service as “Probably Present” in Badlands National Park.
Badlands National Park Birds
| Name | Abundance |
|---|---|
*It is not known for certain if this species is actually in the park. This species is marked by the National Park Service as “Probably Present” in Badlands National Park.
Badlands National Park Reptiles
| Name | Abundance |
|---|---|
*It is not known for certain if this species is actually in the park. This species is marked by the National Park Service as “Probably Present” in Badlands National Park.
Badlands National Park Amphibians
| Name | Abundance |
|---|---|
*It is not known for certain if this species is actually in the park. This species is marked by the National Park Service as “Probably Present” in Badlands National Park.
Badlands National Park Fish
| Name | Abundance |
|---|---|
*It is not known for certain if this species is actually in the park. This species is marked by the National Park Service as “Probably Present” in Badlands National Park.
Note: The wildlife species included in the lists above have been confirmed with the National Park Service to be present or probably present in Badlands National Park. Other species may exist in the park that are currently under review or not yet known.
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