Mammals.
There are about 60 kinds, of which the golden-mantled ground squirrels are among the most conspicuous. They resemble large chipmunks but have stockier bodies, shorter tails and no stripes on their heads. On each side there is a broad, white stripe sandwiched between two dark stripes. Two species of true chipmunks with striped heads also are numerous. The small, tree-inhabiting chickaree, dark brown above and whitish below, is common; and the porcupine is frequently seen. It is advisable to enjoy these and all other small mammals without actual contact because occasionally they carry diseases which can become serious if transmitted to humans.
The large fat-bodied marmot (a mountain woodchuck) lives in high rocky places and on roadsides. The plaintive bleating “yenk, yenk” of the tiny “rock rabbit” (cony) issues from crevices in the talus. Snowshoe hares, brown in summer and white in winter, are sparingly present around forest clearings, such as at the south and east entrances.
Martens are rather common; they are slim brown animals somewhat like large minks but they can climb trees like squirrels. Less often seen are weasels, badgers, minks, red foxes, and coyotes. The gray fox, bobcat, and mountain lion (cougar) are rare.
American black bears are fairly common and may be encountered in many parts of the park. Usually they are black, but many shades of brown also occur, just as hair color varies among people. Do not let bears get close to you. Many people have been painfully clawed when these animals have lost their natural fear of man and have learned to beg for food. DO NOT FEED THE BEARS! Feeding them is unlawful, and violating this regulation seriously endangers other park visitors by encouraging the bears to beg.
The comparatively small and dark “black-tailed” deer of the Pacific Coast is the most common form, particularly on the west side of the park. The larger, lighter-colored mule deer occurs around meadows on the east side of the park, including Rim Drive.
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LET’S NOT BE GUILTY OF STARTING A FOREST FIRE.
ALWAYS USE CAR ASH TRAYS.
COMPLETELY EXTINGUISH MATCHES AND CIGARETTES BEFORE THROWING AWAY.
BE SURE CAMPFIRE IS OUT.