The diversity of wildlife communities in Grand Teton National Park complements the spectacular scenery. Part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosys-tem, the two National Park Service areas offer wildlife a variety of habitats. Each habitat must supply the basic needs of wildlife: food, water, cover and living space. Familiarity with the habitats and habits of park and parkway wildlife results in increased viewing opportunities.

Alpine. Wind and snow limit life above treeline (about 10,000 feet). Some plants and animals have adapted to the harsh conditions. Plants are mat-like, animals are few. Look for yellow-bellied marmots, pikas and bighorn sheep. See: Alpine Wildlife

Sagebrush. The most widespread habitat type in the park, sagebrush flats occur on dry, porous soils. More than 100 species of grasses and wildflowers grow along with abundant sagebrush. Lack of cover makes large animals conspicuous. Look for pronghorns, coyotes, bison, badgers, elk and Uinta ground squirrels.
See: Sagebrush Wildlife

Forests. From treeline to valley floor, forests provide cover and food for many mammal species. Lodgepole pines dominate, but forests also contain firs, aspens and spruces. Look for elk, mule deer, martens, red squirrels, black bears and snowshoe hares. See: Forest Wildlife

Rivers, Lakes and Ponds. Aquatic habitats and adjacent forests, marshes and meadows fulfill the needs of many forms of wildlife. Diverse and abun-dant vegetation offers excellent food and cover. Water is plentiful. Look for moose, river otters, beavers, muskrats, coyotes, bison and mule deer. See: Aquatic Wildlife