Since 1864, this region has been protected, serving as a sanctuary for incredible wildlife. The waterfalls and abundant wildlife bring over 3.5 million visitors each year.
This toad is unique to the mountains of Sierra Nevada. It is adapted to live in cold, wet environments. Female toads are, on average, larger than male toads.
Once teetering on the brink of extinction, the Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep is an excellent example of a conservation success story.
The park is home to the mountain lion (Puma concolor), one of the most majestic predators. Also known as cougars or pumas, these solitary felines live in Yosemite National Park.
Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) are named after their large, mule-like ears. These graceful creatures are the most common mammals that roam the Yosemite National Park.
The California Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis) has distinctive brown plumage marked by white spots and streaks.
The Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) is renowned for its speed, reaching 200 miles per hour; this bird is the world’s fastest animal.
Yosemite National Park is also home to the Great Grey Owl (Strix nebulosa). It is distinctive with piercing yellow eyes and disc shaped grey face.