More than 13 species of mammals live in, on or around the rocky formations. Cottontail rabbits, yellow-bellied marmots and least chipmunks are common sights at the outcrops. Other more secretive residents, like plains harvest mice, deer mice, bushy-tailed wood rats and bats, are nocturnal. Reptiles like snakes, lizards and skinks reside in cracks and crevices. Some predators—like the long-tailed weasel, striped skunk and bobcat—hunt the smaller mammals, birds, reptiles and insects that live on the rocks.

Many different species of hawks and owls use the rocky outcroppings as nest sites. Red-tailed hawks and golden eagles nest on ledges, and ferruginous hawks nest on boulders and pillars. The prairie falcon and great-horned owl nest in holes and crevices. These raptors, or birds of prey, help keep small mammal populations in balance. Smaller insect-eating birds, like Say’s peobe, cliff swallows and rock wrens, also nest in and around the rocky cliffs. Other birds, like the rosy finch and raven, come to the rocks in winter, seeking shelter from the wind and cold.

The rocks add contrast to Wyoming’s wildlands scenery, and provide essential habitat for a variety of wildlife.