This vast wilderness area preservation ensures the needed ecosystems for wildlife habitat. Grizzlies do not necessarily need wilderness to survive, but they do require large acreages to meet their food needs and their denning sites must be free from human disturbance. The timber wolf is an animal that may be returning to the wilderness. In recent years, several verified sightings have been recorded in Idaho. These majestic animals, believed to be infiltrating from Canada, would be a welcome addition to the area to help keep the deer population in check and cull out sickly and weak deer family members, resulting in healthier herds.
Deer are the most commonly seen mammals.
Mountain goats are present on the rocky crags and talus slopes of Salmon Mt. Bighorn sheep inhabit the eastern side of Nez Perce Pass. Although they seldom frequent such heavily forested areas, part of an ancient migration route crosses the road between Falls Flat and Nez Perce Pass. Three are many smaller mammals, such as badger, wolverine, pine marten, mink and weasels, but count yourself fortunate if you see one. However, you will see ground squirrels, golden-mantled squirrels, red squirrels and two kinds of chipmunks. You can differentiate between chipmunks and golden-mantled squirrels as the chipmunk's white stripes extend into his head.