united-states

United States Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in the United States

The United States is a land of incredible biodiversity, with a wide range of habitats that support a diverse array of wildlife. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast expanse of the Great Plains, and the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest to the swamps of the Southeast, the country is home to a fascinating variety of animals.

As you explore the United States, you may encounter iconic species such as the majestic bald eagle, the powerful grizzly bear, and the elusive mountain lion. Keep an eye out for the playful river otters that frolic in the waterways, and the agile pronghorn antelope that can be seen sprinting across the open plains. And don't forget to look to the skies for the graceful flight of the red-tailed hawk and the colorful plumage of the painted bunting. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the incredible wildlife that calls the United States home.

Mammals of the United States

Traversing the diverse landscapes of the United States, one can encounter an array of fascinating mammals that call this vast country home. In the sprawling forests of the Pacific Northwest, the elusive gray wolf roams, a symbol of wild America, while the majestic grizzly bear asserts its dominance in the Rocky Mountains. The American bison, once on the brink of extinction, now grazes the great plains with a renewed presence. Florida's everglades are the only place on earth where both alligators and the American crocodile coexist. The iconic bald eagle, America's national bird, soars above, surveying the land. In urban and suburban areas, the adaptable raccoon is a common sight, showcasing the resilience of wildlife even in human-dominated landscapes. Each of these species plays a crucial role in the rich tapestry of ecosystems found across the United States.

Birds of the United States

The United States is a haven for a diverse array of bird species, each with its unique charm and characteristics. The majestic Bald Eagle, America's national symbol, soars high above the land, predominantly near large bodies of water. In the wetlands and marshes, one can spot the Great Blue Heron standing tall and still, hunting for fish. The Red-tailed Hawk, a raptor known for its keen eyesight, is commonly seen perched atop telephone poles scanning for prey across open fields. The American Robin, with its cheerful song, is a familiar sight in suburban backyards. Meanwhile, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, a tiny dynamo, flits energetically among flower gardens, sipping nectar with its long beak. These birds, among many others, contribute to the rich tapestry of avian life in the United States, offering endless opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Reptiles, Amphibians, Insects

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in the United States

  • Yellowstone National Park, sprawling across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is a volcanic hotspot teeming with wildlife. Visitors can spot herds of bison, majestic elk, and mule deer. The park is also one of the few places in the U.S. where you can see wolves in their natural habitat, alongside grizzly and black bears.
  • Everglades National Park in Florida is a vast wetland that provides a unique ecosystem for American crocodiles, manatees, and the elusive Florida panther. Birdwatchers can delight in sightings of roseate spoonbills, wood storks, and a variety of herons and egrets.
  • Denali National Park in Alaska offers a subarctic wilderness where visitors can encounter grizzly bears, caribou, and Dall sheep. The park is also home to moose and wolves, and it provides a backdrop of North America's tallest peak, Denali.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located at the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is a biodiversity hotspot. Black bears roam the forests, while elk have been successfully reintroduced. The park also hosts a variety of salamanders and is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with species like the pileated woodpecker and the northern saw-whet owl.
  • Yosemite National Park in California is renowned for its stunning granite cliffs and waterfalls. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, and the rare Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep. Birdwatchers can look for the peregrine falcon and the great gray owl.
  • Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is where visitors can see herds of bison and pronghorn antelope grazing in the valleys. The park also provides habitat for moose and the North American river otter, with the majestic Teton Range serving as a dramatic backdrop.
  • Channel Islands National Park off the coast of Southern California is a secluded haven for wildlife. The islands are home to the endemic island fox and the island scrub-jay. The surrounding waters are rich with marine life, including sea lions, dolphins, and the blue whale.
  • Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska is a coastal park where glaciers meet the sea. Visitors can spot sea otters and harbor seals on the ice floes, and orcas and humpback whales in the waters. On land, look for brown bears and mountain goats.

Where to next? Discover country icon Canada, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder