Nature & Wildlife
In Massachusetts, each season presents new and exciting opportunities to explore and understand our ever-changing landscape and its inhabitants. Here you can find information about commonly encountered wildlife and invasive plants.
Plants & Animals Found in Massachusetts
Birds
Discover the birds—and bird behaviors—you're likely to encounter in Massachusetts.
Mammals
From chipmunks to moose, the Commonwealth is home to mammals of all sizes.
Reptiles & Amphibians
They may seem similar, but these two ancient groups have very different (very cool) adaptations.
Insects & Arachnids
Love them or fear them, insects and arachnids play a fundamental role in nature.
Native & Invasive Plants
Learn to recognize helpful native, and harmful invasive, plants.
Are You Wild for Wildlife?
Go wild with this celebration of seasonal superstars—fun facts, free resources, programs and events, ways to protect them, and more.
Stories from the Field, Forest, & Beyond
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Poison Ivy
For those allergic to poison ivy, exposure can lead to weeks of discomfort. By learning to recognize and avoid it, you can explore more without the risk of irritation.
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© Darya ZelentsovaThe Truth About Porcupine Projectiles
A rumor has been floating around for centuries that porcupines can fling their quills at enemies. The truth is a different story.
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Daniel Webster, MarshfieldThrough the Blind: The Best Spots for Wildlife & Bird Watching
To get a closer look at birds without scaring them away, check out these wildlife blinds found throughout Massachusetts.
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Fish CrowCrows vs Ravens vs Grackles
Noisy and full of personality, crows, ravens, and grackles are very noticeable. But telling them apart is a different story. So just how can you distinguish a raven from a crow from a grackle?
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Indigo Bunting15 Exciting Birds You Can Find in Massachusetts
Spice up your birding wish list by seeking out the colorful, the rare, and the captivating. Here’s a look at 15 exceptional and unusual birds in Massachusetts—bound to make you say, “wow!”.
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3 Shy Animals You're Not Likely to Find
There are some species of wildlife we can see almost every day. Others, like the bobcat, fisher, or coyote, are a bit more elusive. Learn more about each of these shy creatures and what to do if you do encounter one.
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© Jim O'DriscollFox vs Coyote
Most of us only ever catch fleeting glimpses of coyotes or foxes, and these brief encounters can leave us wondering what species we saw.
Outdoor Almanac
What does Mother Nature have planned in the coming weeks? Find out with Mass Audubon's monthly guide to the natural world.
Find a Wildlife Rehabilitator
If a bird or animal is really injured, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to many of the frequently asked questions. If you can't find what you're looking for, you can email a wildlife expert.
Upcoming Programs
See all programsVacation Week Trailside Explorers: Mammals
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Blue Hills Trailside Museum, Milton
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Monday, April 20
10:00-11:00am
Families - children 3 - 5 years
Vacation Week Trailside Explorers: Mammals
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Blue Hills Trailside Museum, Milton
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Monday, April 20
12:30-1:30pm
Families - children 6 - 10 years
Destination Birding with a Scone: Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary
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Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, Westport
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Tuesday, April 21
8:00-11:00am
Adults
Little Naturalists
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Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Edgartown
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Tuesday, April 21
9:30-11:30am
Families - children 0 - 5 years
Vacation Week Trailside Explorers: Habitats
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Blue Hills Trailside Museum, Milton
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Tuesday, April 21
12:30-1:30pm
Families - children 6 - 10 years
Birds of Massachusetts Series
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Online
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6 classes starting
Tuesday, April 21
7:00-8:30pm
Adults
Take Action
We need your curiosity, commitment, and passion to ensure that our lands become more resilient, that more people than ever experience the magic of nature, and that we fight climate change—now and in the future.
Stay Connected
Don't miss a beat on all the ways you can get outdoors, celebrate nature, and get involved.