Rutting Elk, Soaring Hawks, and Fattening Bears: The Best Fall Wildlife Experiences in America’s National Parks

As the air gets crisper and the leaves begin to change, National Parks across the U.S. come alive with a different kind of spectacle — the seasonal wildlife migrations and unique animal behaviors that make fall one of the best times for wildlife watching.

In honor of 2024 Wildlife Refuge Week, we’re highlighting some of the most exciting animal activities you can witness this fall, while also reflecting on the importance of protecting these habitats for future generations.

If you haven't read our blog all about National Wildlife Refuge Week, check it out here! 

Connecting to Wildlife Refuge Week: Protecting Our Natural Spaces

Fall is a perfect reminder of why we need to continue protecting the habitats where these animals live, breed, and migrate. National Wildlife Refuge Week, from October 13-19, 2024, highlights the importance of preserving critical wildlife habitats in National Parks and Wildlife Refuges across the country. These protected lands provide sanctuary for countless species, offering them the space they need to thrive.

With more than 568 National Wildlife Refuges in the U.S., these areas play a vital role in maintaining healthy populations of birds, mammals, reptiles, and other wildlife species. Supporting these parks and refuges ensures that future generations can continue to experience the magic of wildlife migration and seasonal behaviors.

Bird Migration: A Fall Spectacle

One of the most well-known migrations is the journey of birds as they head south for the winter. National Parks along key flyways offer some of the best opportunities to witness this incredible journey. At places like Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, keep your binoculars handy to catch glimpses of species like the Sandhill Crane and Bald Eagle as they migrate to warmer climates.

In the eastern United States, Shenandoah National Park is a great spot for watching the annual hawk migration. Visitors can head to peaks like Hawksbill or Stony Man for an elevated view as thousands of hawks soar through the sky, riding thermal currents on their way south.

Elk Rutting: An Autumn Ritual

Elk are among the most majestic animals to witness in the fall, particularly during their annual rut (mating season). Parks like Rocky Mountain National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park provide front-row seats to this spectacular event, which is characterized by bull elk bugling to attract females and assert their dominance. The eerie, high-pitched bugle calls can be heard echoing through the valleys, creating a magical atmosphere.

During this time, bull elk are also known to lock antlers in fierce battles over mates, making it one of the most thrilling wildlife spectacles to witness in the wild.

Bears Preparing for Hibernation

In many northern national parks like Glacier National Park and Denali National Park, fall is the time when bears become more active, fattening up on berries and other food sources as they prepare for their long winter hibernation. It’s a great time to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, but always from a safe distance.

As temperatures drop, bears engage in a feeding frenzy known as hyperphagia, during which they consume thousands of calories each day to build up fat reserves. This makes fall a prime time for spotting bears foraging for food near rivers, berry patches, and open meadows.

Celebrate and Conserve

As you head out this fall to witness the wonders of wildlife migrations, consider purchasing a piece of artwork from our National Park Posters collection. Each purchase helps support park conservation efforts, so you can enjoy both beautiful artwork and the knowledge that you’re contributing to preserving these amazing natural spaces.

Learn more about National Wildlife Refuge Week