Spring poses significant challenges for wildlife as they contend with depleted winter fat reserves and limited availability of new plant growth, which is often in its earliest stages and sparsely distributed. Consequently, conserving energy remains a critical priority during this transitional period.
Snowpack conditions as of March 24, the Snake River Headwaters is recording snow water equivalents at 75% of median, compared to 113% in 2025, 98% in 2024, and 115% in 2023 for the same day. There are 17 days until median peak date of April 11.
Grizzly bears are beginning to emerge from their dens. The first grizzly sighting in Grand Teton/John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway typically occurs in late March. The first grizzly observed in Yellowstone this year was on March 9 th in the northern part of the park. Adult males emerge first, with more than half out and active by the end of March. Females with new cubs are usually the last to come out in late April or early May. It is important to start carrying bear spray during spring explorations, make noise, and be alert to your surroundings.
Early nesting & breeding activity has begun. As the snowpack recedes on the valley floor and rivers open up, some bald eagles are already sitting on their nests. Many other wildlife species including ravens, river otters, golden eagles, great-horned owls, and Canada geese have begun their courtship and breeding activities.
Migratory birds are starting to arrive including western bluebirds, red wing blackbirds, red-tailed hawks, northern flickers, and robins. Soon sandhill cranes, osprey, and other migratory birds will follow.
Grazers like elk, mule deer, and bighorn move to areas melted free from snow to forage on exposed dried vegetation until fresh spring growth starts to sprout.
Elk are drifting north as they followed the receding snow. Bulls shed their antlers between March and April due to hormonal changes tied to decreasing daylight. Larger bulls tend to shed earlier than younger males, especially spikes (yearling bulls) who may retain their antlers into May. Collecting antlers in the park is illegal. Rodents, porcupines and other wildlife gnaw on shed antlers for vital nutrients.
Wolverines give birth to 1–2 kits between mid-February and March. Females dig dens in remote alpine basins where snow persists into late spring. She raises her young alone, often using the same den until May. Wolverines rely almost exclusively on carrion in winter and early spring.
Greater sage-grouse males will begin strutting on sagebrush leks in late March or early April. At dawn, they begin their dramatic mating display—fanning out their tails, puffing out their chests, and inflating bright yellow air sacs. They produce distinctive popping and whistling sounds. Over the winter, sage-grouse gain weight and prepare for the breeding season by feeding on sagebrush leaves and hydrating with snow.
Spring offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals are often concentrated at lower elevations. However, this is also a critical and vulnerable time for many species. Avoid disturbing wildlife. Allow animals to focus on feeding and conserving energy. Even if animals appear unconcerned, human disturbance can force them to expend precious energy they cannot afford to lose.