Common Animals:
* Bison: Vast herds of bison roamed the plains, posing a threat to travelers and their livestock. Bison were a source of food, but also a danger if they were startled or if a traveler got too close to a calf.
* Deer: Deer were another common source of food. However, hunting deer could be dangerous, especially in the dense forests of the Rocky Mountains.
* Wolves: Wolves were a serious threat, especially to livestock. They were also known to attack people if they felt threatened.
* Coyotes: Coyotes were more common than wolves and while not as dangerous, they could still pose a threat to livestock.
* Bears: Black bears and grizzly bears inhabited the mountains and forests. They were a serious danger to humans and could be aggressive if their food or young were threatened.
* Mountain Lions: Mountain lions were a rare but dangerous predator, lurking in the forests and mountains.
* Antelope: Antelope were a source of food but could be dangerous if they were startled.
* Rabbits: Rabbits were a source of food, and their fur could be used for clothing.
* Squirrels: Squirrels were a source of food, and their fur could be used for clothing.
* Prairie Dogs: Prairie dogs were a common sight on the plains and were sometimes hunted for food.
Other Hazards:
* Snakes: Rattlesnakes, copperheads, and other venomous snakes were a danger on the trail.
* Spiders: Black widow and brown recluse spiders were venomous and could cause serious injury.
* Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes were a nuisance and could carry diseases like malaria.
Animals for Food and Resources:
While many of these animals posed a threat, others were important for survival. Travelers hunted animals for food, used their hides for clothing and shelter, and even used their bones for tools. This was particularly true for bison, which were a major food source for many travelers.
It's important to remember that the Oregon Trail was a journey through untamed wilderness. The animals encountered on the trail were both a threat and a resource for the travelers who braved this journey.