Flora Though host to invasive plant species including
leafy spurge, the Rattlesnake contains native plant communities such as
Sphagnum riparium at Shoo Fly Meadows, one of the only
Sphagnum bogs in the Western United States. Native
orchid species may be found in the recreation area, including
Calypso bulbosa,
Cypripedium montanum, and
Corallorhiza striata.
Fauna Popular with fishermen, Rattlesnake Creek hosts
bull trout,
cutthroat trout, and
mountain whitefish. Along the trail,
green comma and
western tiger swallowtail butterflies may be found, amongst others.
Mammals which frequent the National Recreation Area include
elk,
white-tailed deer,
mountain goat, and
grizzly bear.
Birdwatchers visiting the Rattlesnake may find over forty bird species including
pileated woodpecker,
great grey owl,
ruffed grouse, and
American dipper. Visitors should exercise caution, for
black bear and
mountain lion frequent the area. ==References==