Indiana, the American Midwestern state, is characterized by its diverse biogeography comprising varied habitats from flat and fertile farmlands in the north-central region to the rolling hills in the southern parts. Indiana has forests, wetlands, prairies, and lakes, supporting various plant and animal species. Two major rivers, the Ohio and Wabash, flow through the state, offering extensive riverine ecosystems.
The Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the state. Other places that offer a closer look at the state’s rich flora and fauna include the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park and Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial.
List of Different Types of Animals Found in Indiana
The list below includes animals that are native to the state.
The deadliest animals in the state include carnivores like black bears, coyotes, cougars, and gray foxes. Other equally dangerous animals include snakes and spiders like the eastern Massasauga, cottonmouth, timber rattlesnake, black widows, and brown recluses. Fire ants and kissing bugs are some insects to watch out for.
What are some common invasive animals in Indiana?
The Gypsy Moth, emerald ash borer, Asian longhorn beetle, and Zebra Mussels are some invasive invertebrates. At the same time, the mute swan is an invasive bird. Like in many other states in the US, wild hogs are also invasive to Indiana.
There are around 30 endangered species in the state, some of the most notable ones being the Indiana bat, Gray Bat, Kirtland’s snake, eastern hellbender, piping plover, and spotted turtle.
