26 Animals of the United States

When it comes to surface area, the United States ranks as the fourth largest country in the world. This immense territory spans a wide range of geographic regions and includes nearly every type of climate—from the icy tundras of Alaska to the arid deserts of the Southwest and the tropical wetlands of Florida. Naturally, this makes the U.S. home to one of the richest and most diverse ecosystems on Earth.

In this article, we’ll explore 26 fascinating animals native to the United States, detailing their habitats, behaviors, conservation statuses (as classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, IUCN), and the threats some of them face.

1. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

The bald eagle is the national bird and symbol of the United States. With its striking white head and yellow beak, this large bird of prey can be found across North America—from northern Mexico to Alaska and Canada, including Puerto Rico. Thanks to successful conservation efforts, the bald eagle is currently classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN.

2. American Bison (Bison bison)

Also known as the American buffalo, this herbivorous mammal can weigh over 1,300 kg (2,800 lbs). Once nearly driven to extinction due to overhunting in the 19th and 20th centuries, the species has rebounded through reintroduction programs. However, habitat loss and fragmentation continue to pose threats. It is now classified as “Near Threatened.”

3. Pronghorn Antelope (Antilocapra americana)

Native to the open grasslands of the central-western U.S., pronghorns are among the fastest land mammals in North America. With a population of over 750,000 mature individuals, they are currently listed as “Least Concern,” although they face pressures from habitat degradation and hunting.

4. Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis)

Recognizable by its two bold white stripes, the striped skunk inhabits Canada, the U.S., and parts of Mexico. These omnivores feed on insects, small mammals, seeds, and fruits. Their populations remain stable, though they are still affected by pollution, illegal hunting, and climate change.

5. Yellow-blotched Map Turtle (Graptemys flavimaculata)

Endemic to the Pascagoula River in Mississippi, this small to medium-sized freshwater turtle is easily identified by its intricately patterned shell. It is listed as “Vulnerable” due to habitat disturbance, water pollution, invasive species, and illegal collection.

6. Yosemite Toad (Anaxyrus canorus)

This species is native to California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. Sadly, habitat disruption, climate change, and diseases have placed the Yosemite toad in serious jeopardy. It is now categorized as “Endangered” by the IUCN.

7. Beach Mouse (Peromyscus polionotus)

These small rodents inhabit coastal dunes and inland fields in the southeastern U.S. Interestingly, their fur color varies by location—coastal mice are lighter, while inland ones are more brownish. The species is considered “Least Concern,” though its range is limited and fragmented.

8. American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)

This iconic reptile dwells in the swamps and wetlands of the southeastern U.S. Reaching lengths of over 4 meters (13 ft) and weights exceeding 400 kg (880 lbs), it is a top predator in its ecosystem. Once endangered, its populations have recovered and it is now listed as “Least Concern.”

Other Native Animals of the United States

Here’s a list of additional animals that are native to the U.S.:

• Northern Raccoon (Procyon lotor)

• Mountain Lion (Puma concolor)

• California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus)

• Island Gray Fox (Urocyon littoralis)

• Akohekohe (Palmeria dolei)

• Groundhog (Marmota monax)

• White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)

• Black-footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes)

• North American Beaver (Castor canadensis)

• Flattened Musk Turtle (Sternotherus depressus)

• American Black Bear (Ursus americanus)

• Red Knot (Calidris canutus)

• Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos horribilis)

• Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens)

• Wood Stork (Mycteria americana)

• California Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis)

• Gray Wolf (Canis lupus)

• Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)

Endangered Animals in the United States

Some of the species mentioned above are classified by the IUCN as endangered or vulnerable. These include:

• California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus)

• Akohekohe (Palmeria dolei)

• Yellow-blotched Map Turtle (Graptemys flavimaculata)

• Black-footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes)

• Flattened Musk Turtle (Sternotherus depressus)

• Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens)

• Yosemite Toad (Anaxyrus canorus)

• California Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis)

• Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)

If you’re interested in learning more about how to protect these remarkable species, we encourage you to explore our article on [Endangered Animals of the United States and How to Help Them].

For more wildlife articles, visit our Wild Animals section.

Bibliography

IUCN Red Lists. Website: https://www.iucnredlist.org/

animal tags： american animals