On the way to Mount Rushmore I detoured for several scenic drives, including Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop, which takes you through rolling green hills reminiscent of the English countryside. For most of the drive I did not encounter much wildlife except for a lone antelope and a distant herd of bison, but toward the end I came upon a vast field of prairie dogs, antelope, and other animals. It’s a nice, pleasant drive, worth the diversion if you have the time.
Click on any photo below to open a gallery.
Antelope having a siesta.
Herd of bison in the distance.
Prairie Dog
Wider shot of antelope (foreground) and rolling hills.
Prairie Dog
All of the dirt mounds in the field here are prairie dog holes.
Mules?
You can see how the prairie dogs have worn paths in the grass between their holes.
Antelope in the distance, prairie dog holes in the foreground.
Michael Rappa 