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.
Outdoor Almanac
What does Mother Nature have planned in the coming weeks? Find out with Mass Audubon's monthly guide to the natural world.
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.
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 programsNorth Shore Explorers: Spring Series for Homeschoolers
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Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport
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5 classes starting
Friday, March 27
10:00am-12:00pm
Families - children 5 - 14 years
Looking Closely: The Art and Ecology of Wood Frogs, Spotted Salamanders, and Vernal Pools
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Museum of American Bird Art Education Center, Canton
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Friday, March 27
10:30am-12:00pm
Adults
The Secret Life of Owls, Vernal Pools, and Spring Wildlife
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Museum of American Bird Art Education Center, Canton
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Friday, March 27
12:30-2:00pm
Adults
Family Woodcock Walk
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Blue Hills Trailside Museum, Milton
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Friday, March 27
6:30-8:00pm
Families - children 5 - 17
Winter Birding at Wellfleet Bay
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Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, South Wellfleet
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Saturday, March 28
8:00-10:00am
Adults
Spring Bird Walk
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Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Mattapan
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Saturday, March 28
8:00-10:00am
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.