The types of animals found in Illinois 500 years ago are still common today with two important exceptions. Elk (Cervus elaphus), which no longer live in Illinois, was found throughout the state in protohistoric and historic times. Bison (Bison bison), also no longer native to Illinois, were also found in many areas of Illinois. Native people hunted elk and bison historically, but both animals disappeared by the early part of the 19th century.
Copyright © 2000 Illinois State Museum