Maryland is a state located on the mid-Atlantic coast of the United States and is home to a diverse array of wildlife. From the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains, the state provides habitats for many different species of animals. Some of the most common animals native to Maryland include white-tailed deer, Eastern gray squirrels, Eastern chipmunks, red foxes, raccoons, and opossums. Additionally, the state is home to a variety of bird species such as the Great Blue Heron, Northern Cardinal, Wild Turkey, Eastern Bluebird, and Common Merganser. The state is also home to many different species of reptiles, including the Eastern box turtle, Northern water snake, Eastern garter snake, Northern Copperhead, Eastern milksnake, Timber rattlesnake, and Eastern hognose snake. Whether you're exploring the state's forests, wetlands, or waterways, you're sure to encounter many fascinating and unique animals that call Maryland home.
Common Merganser The Common Merganser is a large duck that is native to Maryland and can be found throughout the state. This species is known for its striking appearance, with a distinctive crest on its head and a long, narrow bill that is well-suited for catching fish. Common Mergansers feed almost exclusively on fish, which they hunt by diving into the water and snatching their prey with their sharp beaks.
In Maryland, Common Mergansers breed along the state's waterways, including rivers, lakes, and tidal creeks. The nests are typically constructed of sticks and are placed in trees or on the ground near the water's edge. The female will lay eight to ten eggs, which are incubated by both parents. After hatching, both parents will help to feed the young until they are old enough to leave the nest and hunt for food on their own. Presence of large populations of Common Mergansers is often a sign of a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
White-Tailed Deer
The White-tailed Deer is a common species found throughout the state of Maryland and is an important part of the state's ecosystem. This species is known for its distinctive appearance, with a white tail that it raises and displays when it is alarmed or frightened. The White-tailed Deer is also known for its agility and grace, as it moves easily through forests, fields, and wetlands.
In Maryland, the White-tailed Deer is a highly adaptable species that can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and agricultural lands. This species feeds on a wide range of vegetation, including leaves, twigs, and fruits. In the winter months, when food is scarce, the White-tailed Deer will also feed on bark, buds, and evergreen needles.
Eastern Gray Squirrel
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is a large, bushy-tailed squirrel that is well-known for its distinctive gray fur and its acrobatic abilities. This species feeds on a variety of foods, including nuts, seeds, and fruits, and is often seen scampering up trees and along power lines. In Maryland, the Eastern Gray Squirrel is a common sight in parks and residential areas, where it is often attracted by bird feeders.
Eastern Chipmunk
The Eastern Chipmunk is a small, striped squirrel that is known for its distinctive chipmunk call and its energetic behavior. This species feeds on a variety of foods, including seeds, nuts, and insects, and is often seen scurrying about in search of food. In Maryland, the Eastern Chipmunk is a common sight in forests and parks, where it is often seen foraging for food.
Red Fox
The Red Fox is a medium-sized carnivore that is well-known for its distinctive red fur and its bushy tail. This species is a skilled hunter and feeds on a variety of prey, including rabbits, squirrels, and small birds. In Maryland, the Red Fox is commonly seen in rural areas, where it takes advantage of the plentiful food sources and the cover provided by the forests and fields.
Raccoon
The Raccoon is a medium-sized mammal that is well-known for its distinctive black mask and its mischievous behavior. This species is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods, including fruits, insects, and small animals. In Maryland, the Raccoon is commonly seen in residential areas, where it is attracted by the availability of food and shelter.
Opossum
The Opossum is a small, nocturnal mammal that is well-known for its distinctive appearance and its ability to "play dead." This species is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods, including fruits, insects, and small animals. In Maryland, the Opossum is commonly seen in forests and fields, where it takes advantage of the cover provided by the vegetation.
Eastern Cottontail
The Eastern Cottontail is a medium-sized mammal that is well-known for its distinctive brown fur and its long, floppy ears. This species is a common sight in fields and meadows, where it feeds on a variety of plants and fruits. In Maryland, the Eastern Cottontail is a common prey species for many larger mammals, such as foxes and hawks, and plays an important role in the food chain.
Eastern Box Turtle
The Eastern Box Turtle is a medium-sized reptile that is well-known for its distinctive appearance and its long lifespan. This species is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands, and feeds on a variety of plants and insects. In Maryland, the Eastern Box Turtle is a common sight in rural areas, where it takes advantage of the diverse food sources and the cover provided by the vegetation.
Wood Duck
The Wood Duck is a medium-sized bird that is well-known for its distinctive appearance and its preference for wooded habitats. This species is found in a variety of wetland environments, including swamps, ponds, and rivers, and feeds on a variety of aquatic plants and animals. In Maryland, the Wood Duck is a common sight in rural areas, where it takes advantage of the plentiful food sources and the cover provided by the forests and wetlands.
American Black Bear
The American Black Bear is a large mammal that is well-known for its distinctive black fur and its omnivorous diet. This species is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and fields, and feeds on a variety of plants, fruits, and animals. In Maryland, the American Black Bear is a common sight in rural areas, where it takes advantage of the diverse food sources and the cover provided by the forests and wetlands.
Great Blue Heron
The Great Blue Heron is a large bird that is well-known for its distinctive appearance and its preference for wetland habitats. This species is found in a variety of environments, including swamps, ponds, and rivers, and feeds on a variety of fish and other aquatic animals. In Maryland, the Great Blue Heron is a common sight near bodies of water, where it takes advantage of the abundant food sources and the cover provided by the vegetation.
Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a medium-sized bird that is well-known for its distinctive red feathers and its cheerful song. This species is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and gardens, and feeds on a variety of seeds, fruits, and insects. In Maryland, the Northern Cardinal is a common sight in residential areas, where it takes advantage of the birdfeeders and the cover provided by the trees and bushes.
Wild Turkey
The Wild Turkey is a large bird that is well-known for its distinctive appearance and its preference for forested habitats. This species is found in a variety of environments, including forests, fields, and wetlands, and feeds on a variety of plants, seeds, and insects. In Maryland, the Wild Turkey is a common sight in rural areas, where it takes advantage of the diverse food sources and the cover provided by the forests and wetlands.
Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is a medium-sized bird that is well-known for its distinctive blue feathers and its preference for open habitats. This species is found in a variety of environments, including meadows, fields, and gardens, and feeds on a variety of insects and fruits. In Maryland, the Eastern Bluebird is a common sight in residential areas, where it takes advantage of the birdfeeders and the cover provided by the trees and bushes.
Canada Goose
The Canada Goose is a common sight in Maryland during the winter months, when large flocks of these birds can be seen flying overhead or resting on bodies of water. Canada Geese are known for their distinctive honking call, which can be heard from a great distance. These birds feed on a variety of plants, including grasses and grains, and are well-adapted to a variety of habitats, from urban parks to rural farmlands. Although they can be a nuisance in some areas, Canada Geese are an important part of the ecosystem and are protected by law.
Woodpecker
The Woodpecker is a common resident of Maryland and can be found year-round. These birds are known for their distinctive drumming sound, which is used to communicate and to locate food sources. Woodpeckers feed on a variety of insects, including beetles, ants, and termites, and are an important part of the ecosystem as they help to control insect populations. Woodpeckers are also known for their unique adaptations, such as their stiff tail feathers, which help to prop them up as they forage for food. There are approximately 8 species of Woodpecker. Ltearn more about the different species and their importance to Maryland's habitat.
Mink
The Mink is a semi-aquatic mammal that is found near waterways in Maryland. These animals are known for their luxurious fur, which was once highly prized for its use in clothing. Minks are agile swimmers and are well-adapted to their aquatic lifestyle, with webbed feet and waterproof fur. They feed on a variety of prey, including fish, crustaceans, and small mammals, and play an important role in the ecosystem as predators. Despite their value, minks are also considered a nuisance in some areas, as they can cause damage to fish populations and property.
Muskrat
The Muskrat is a semi-aquatic mammal that is found in marshes and swamps throughout Maryland. These animals are known for their dense, waterproof fur, which provides insulation and helps them to swim effectively. Muskrats feed on aquatic vegetation, such as cattails and bulrushes, and play an important role in the ecosystem as herbivores. Despite their value, muskrats can also cause damage to infrastructure, such as levees and dikes, and are sometimes considered a nuisance. Nevertheless, they are an important part of the state's wildlife and contribute to the diversity of the ecosystem.
Northern Copperhead
The Northern Copperhead is a venomous species of snake found in Maryland. They are known for their distinctive pattern of hourglass-shaped crossbands on their bodies. These snakes are often found in wooded areas near water sources and feed primarily on small mammals and birds.
Eastern Milksnake
The Eastern Milksnake is a non-venomous species that is native to Maryland. They are known for their distinctive coloration, which consists of a light gray or tan background with dark brown or black blotches. These snakes feed mainly on small mammals and birds and are often found in wooded areas and near fields.
Timber Rattlesnake
The Timber Rattlesnake is a venomous species of snake found in Maryland. They are known for the distinctive rattle on the end of their tails, which they use to warn potential predators of their presence. These snakes are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and rocky areas, and feed primarily on small mammals and birds.
Eastern Hognose Snake
The Eastern Hognose Snake is a non-venomous species found in Maryland. They are known for their upturned snout, which they use to dig in the ground for food. These snakes feed mainly on amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals and are often found in wooded areas and near wetlands. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, Eastern Hognose Snakes are non-aggressive and will generally only defend themselves if they feel threatened.
In conclusion, the state of Maryland offers a rich and diverse environment for many different species of animals to thrive. From the majestic White-tailed deer to the elusive Timber rattlesnake, the state is home to a wide array of wildlife that is both captivating and inspiring. These animals play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the state's ecosystem, and it is important to protect their habitats and preserve their populations for future generations to enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a casual observer, Maryland's abundant wildlife offers something for everyone to enjoy. So take some time to explore the state and discover all the fascinating and unique animals that call Maryland home.