Wetlands are vital to over 200 different species of wildlife in South Dakota. Birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles, fish and even endangered species use wetland areas for nesting, a source of food, and shelter. Upland species find wetland areas an ideal site during the winter to protect themselves from harsh weather. For more information on South Dakota Wildlife in Wetlands.

Riparian areas are vital to the survival of many wildlife species including fish, reptiles and amphibians, birds and mammals. This is the green area that borders streams, rivers and lakes with trees, shrubs, grasses and other vegetation. Riparian areas include stream banks and low-lying areas that are flooded during periods of runoff. This transition zone from water to wooded areas is attractive and important to all kinds of wildlife, even large mammals due to an abundance of water, shelter and food. Many of the same species found in wetland areas will commonly use riparian areas as well.

Grasslands may appear to be a vast desolate area with very little wildlife. If you take a closer look though, that dark spot on the horizon may be a mule deer or antelope. The prairie provides a unique area for many species of wildlife. This diverse habitat consists of mostly tall grass or mixed grass prairies, woody draws, juniper breaks, wetlands, rivers and ponds. Over 100 species of wildlife utilize the prairie as their home; species include mule and white tail deer, pronghorn antelope, prairie dogs, grouse, and prairie chickens. Small dams and reservoirs provide habitat to a large number of waterfowl and fish species.                                  Photo by Darlene Gray Kutzler

For more information on wildlife and grasslands visit one of the following sites.
South Dakota'a Prairie Grasslands
Buffalo Gap National Grasslands
Fort Pierre National Grasslands
Badlands National Park
Wind Cave National Park
South Dakota Partners for Wildlife
National Grasslands Visitor Center

Forests provide a habitat to many species of wildlife. Naturally occurring forests in South Dakota include the Black Hills National Forest, flood plain forest, and the upland forest which all provide habitat to a diverse wildlife population. Urban and shelterbelt forests are also considered part of the forest habitat; while not naturally occurring, they also provide vital habitat to wildlife.

The Black Hills forest provides a habitat not common to the other forests found in South Dakota. Birds, fish and mammals not commonly found on the prairie make the expansive forest their home. Species found include porcupine; bobcat; elk; mountain lion; pine marten; canyon wren; chipmunks; and rainbow, brook and brown trout.

The flood plain and upland forests are typically found in close proximity to sources of water like streams, lakes and rivers. These forests provide food, shelter and nesting habitat and are important to a wide range of animals, birds, amphibians and reptiles. Species found in these forests include songbirds, turkeys, wood ducks, herons, deer, fox, beaver, turtles, frogs and even bald eagles.

Urban and shelterbelt forests provide an oasis to wildlife species which have adapted to living close to humans. Small mammals including rabbits, squirrels, raccoons and opossums are commonly found in this type of forest. These forests provide great viewing opportunities for the recreational bird watcher who can catch a glimpse of a cardinal, blue jay, wren, chickadee, or finch.