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Pronghorn (Antelope)
The Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) is the fastest North
American land animal, capable of reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per
hour. The pronghorn's speed is its main defense against predators. The
newborns, for the first few days of their lives, are vulnerable to
coyotes. The mother guards them closely, and they oftentimes remain
perfectly still, their dappled gray coat blending in with the grasses
and shrubs, so that predators cannot detect them. By the end of their
first week, they are running about, and soon are young speedsters
themselves. As adults, their coats turn brown with distinctive white
patches on their stomach and rump. Up to 40 million of these graceful
animals used to roam North America, but hunting and the settlement of
the West reduced their numbers to as few as 20,000 near the turn of the
century. There are about 5000 present in the Yellowstone area today.
 Where To Find Them
Pronghorn
are found mainly in the Northern section of the park. One of the
best places is the one-way dirt road that runs from Mammoth Hot Spring
to Gardiner. There are almost always some at the north entrance station
near Gardiner. Also look for them on the road between Mammoth Hot
Springs and Tower Junction and in the Lamar Valley area.
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