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About this sound
Many native Americans and early 19th century beaver trappers left their moccasin tracks at this very site, while crossing between the Bighorn Mountains to the east and the Absaroka Mountains to the west. The view of wildlife and wildland landscapes has changed dramatically since that time, and so has our understanding of all life's connection to the land, water, and air. Wildland spaces and contrasting landscapes make Wyoming a special place for people and wildlife. Wide-open spaces provide a special need for free-ranging herds of elk, deer, bighorn sheep and and pronghorn antelope. From this agricultural island on the north edge of the Bighorn Basin you are surrounded by wildland expanses and a contrast of mountains, rivers and prairie. The Pryor Mountains to the north, the Owl Creek Mountains to the south, and the Bighorns and Absarokas all contribute to the basin's wildlife diversity. Pioneers began farming and raising livestock in this area in the late 1800's because of its temperate climate, wide open spaces and landscape diversity. Both wildlife and people have benefited and share the wide open spaces and contrasting landscapes. Abundant wildlife, natural wonders and western culture have always allured and enchanted the human spirit. We hope your spirit will be strengthened by your visit to this special piece of Wyoming's Wildlands.
Why parks record sound
The NPS Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division monitors soundscapes in parks across the United States. Natural quiet is treated as a resource to protect, like clean air or dark skies: noise from aircraft, vehicles and machinery can mask animal communication and change the experience of a place.
More sounds
Pond Trail Sign 6: The Power of Nature
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Pond Trail Sign 5: Migration
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Pond Trail Sign 2: The City
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Pond Trail Sign 3: Metamorphosis
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Pond Trail Sign 4: Tracks
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Sources & credits
- Pond Trail Sign 1: Wildland Romance by US National Park Service – Public domain