Mammals were of vital importance to all primitive people. The central role of the mountain sheep is so important that the animal deserves separate note. Other plant-eaters such as deer, elk and moose also supplied meat, sinews, hides, bones and horns for varied uses.

Carnivorous beasts were dangerous enemies and competitors for food as well. The bear is shown being hunted and killed as well as taking part with humans in the "bear dance." The cougar is portrayed with fearful teeth and claws very much in evidence.

Dogs and coyotes seem to be indistinguishable in rock art. The frequency with which the canine form is associated with human figures suggests that dogs were friendly and useful companions then as now.

Lesser mammels are depicted with no apparent preference. Bush-tailed chipmunks, flying bats, militant skunks, and badgers are notable.

The horse was a late-comer to the scene. First introduced by Caucasions in the sixteenth century the house was an object of supreme curiosity to the Native Americans. Either with or without riders the horse appears in many scenes. Even the long-eared mule or jackass has been depicted by rock artists.