In fact, one may think that the wildlife is restricted to the squirrels and birds that hover about. The animal population here at Crater Lake is actually quite diverse. From summer seasonal visitors such as the black bear, elk, and bald eagle, to the year round residents like the pine marten, snowshoe hare, and Clark's Nutcracker, the park serves as a sanctuary and home for these animals of the Crater Lake ecosystem. Among the summer mammals, the elk is one of the largest yet least viewed. A herd of about 150 bases itself near Union Peak and grazes in the meadows on the south side of the park.
Elk are most common in open areas near timber stands, where they graze on grasses and shrubs.
They stand up to five feet high at the shoulder and can weigh up to six hundred pounds. Despite their size, elk have an uncanny ability to move quietly and avoid detection. One of the year round residents, the pine marten, becomes especially active in the winter. The hunt for food keeps them on the move and their lack of natural predators allows them to be especially brave. The pine marten is a close relative of the short-tailed weasel, and is distinguishable from its cousin as the marten keeps its brown coat throughout the year.