Animals in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a state in the northeastern region of the United States, known for its rich natural landscape and diverse terrain. The eastern portion of the state boasts of wet marshlands and sandy beaches of Cape Cod, while mountainous forests of the Berkshires characterize the western regions. Naturally, it has fostered the growth of rich wildlife comprising nocturnal predators like coyotes, foxes, raccoons, bats, and hundreds of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fishes.

The state offers ample opportunity for wildlife watching with some of the best spots, including the Cape Cod National Seashore and Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which are ideal for watching birds and coastal wildlife like seals and whales. Mount Greylock State Reservation allows you to spot terrestrial animals like bobcats, black bears, and moose.

Animals in Massachusetts (MA)

List of Different Types of Animals Found in Massachusetts

The list mainly includes animals native to Massachusetts. Some birds, fishes, and insects may have settled populations in the state.

Mammals

Eastern wolves and wolverines used to live in the state, but their populations have been extirpated.

Birds

Reptiles

Common five-lined skink used to inhabit this state, but their population has gone extinct due to habitat loss.

Amphibians

Fishes

  • Striped Bass
  • Largemouth Bass
  • Smallmouth Bass
  • Bluefish
  • Flounder
  • Atlantic Cod
  • Tautog
  • Haddock
  • Pollock
  • Atlantic Mackerel
  • Winter Flounder
  • Atlantic Herring
  • Atlantic Salmon
  • Atlantic Menhaden
  • Summer Flounder 
  • Winter Skate
  • Atlantic Bonito
  • Bluefin Tuna
  • Weakfish
  • Black Sea Bass
  • Chain Pickerel
  • Northern Pike
  • Brook Trout
  • Brown Trout

Insects and Invertebrates

There are many other insects in the state, with several of them, like the Asian longhorn beetles and emerald ash borers, being invasive.

Animals in Massachusetts (MA)

State Animals of Massachusetts

State FishAtlantic Cod
State InsectLady bug
State Marine MammalNorth Atlantic right whale
State Game BirdWild Turkey
State DogBoston Terrier
State HorseMorgan Horse

FAQ

What are the most dangerous animals in Massachusetts?

The venomous eastern copperhead, timber rattlesnake, and black widow are some of the deadliest animals in the state. Predatory carnivores like black bears, foxes, and coyotes should also be mentioned.

What are some of the rarest animals in Massachusetts?

The loggerhead sea turtle, leatherback sea turtle, and bog turtle are considered endangered in the state and, thus are among the rarest animals to be seen. The Peregrine falcon, northern harrier, and red knot are a few of the endangered birds. Among amphibians native here, Jefferson’s salamander is an endangered and protected species. Apart from these, there are several fish with their populations under threat.

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