Animals in America

The USA truly stands out as a land unlike any other. This is especially true when it comes to the remarkable and diverse array of wildlife waiting to be discovered across America’s varied landscapes.

Come with us as we introduce you to some of the most fascinating animal species you might encounter on a tour to the USA.

Which animals can you encounter in America?

America covers an enormous expanse, stretching from the icy wilderness of Alaska in the north to the subtropical shores of Florida in the south.

Given the country’s sheer size and the variety of landscapes and climates it encompasses, it’s hardly surprising that the USA is home to such a rich and diverse wildlife.

Among the more than 420 species of mammals, 780 species of birds, and 310 species of reptiles that inhabit the country, a few stand out as particularly iconic and widespread.

We’ve put together a list of 10 animals you might be lucky enough to spot in America.

1. Black bears

The black bear is the most widespread species of bear in North America, inhabiting a range that stretches from northern Mexico all the way to northern Canada. Typically, they make their homes deep within the cover of dense forests, foraging for food such as animals, plants, and berries.

Contrary to what their name might suggest, not all black bears have black fur – some are brown, or even have a rusty hue. An adult black bear usually measures between 1.5 and 1.8 metres in length and can weigh up to 275 kilograms. Although that may sound impressive, the black bear is actually the smallest bear species found in North America.

Black bears are excellent climbers. So, if you’re hoping to spot one, it’s a good idea not to just scan the ground—keep an eye on the treetops as well.

You might be lucky enough to see black bears in several of America’s national parks, such as Yosemite National Park and Yellowstone National Park, since they are often found in densely forested areas.

2. Whales

Whales are mammals, giving birth to live young and breathing air just like we do. Although these fascinating creatures vary greatly in both size and colour, they share many characteristics. For example, their social behaviour and intelligence are truly remarkable. Whales don’t just play together and work as a team – they are also capable of forming friendships and experiencing grief.

Of the 90 species of whales recorded worldwide, you can find around 25 of these magnificent creatures in the coastal waters of the USA. This includes humpback whales, grey whales, blue whales, and orcas. The best time and place to encounter these majestic giants really depends on which species you hope to see.

You might be lucky enough to spot whales along the American coastline. For example, there’s an excellent chance of seeing blue whales in Monterey from July to October, grey whales in the warm bays of San Diego between December and April, and humpback whales in the waters off New York from May to December.

3. Dolphins

Dolphins are aquatic mammals, found in oceans, coastal areas, and rivers.

There are 42 different dolphin species in total, and several of these can be found in the waters surrounding the USA – particularly around Southern California and Florida. This includes the bottlenose dolphin, one of the most widespread dolphin species, and the harbour porpoise, which has a short, robust body and a rather different appearance from what most people associate with a dolphin.

Dolphins are playful creatures whose intelligence and social nature bear many similarities to humans, making any encounter with them truly captivating.

You might be lucky enough to spot dolphins near Key West in Florida, a favourite feeding and breeding ground for many dolphins, or off the coast of San Diego and Los Angeles, where dolphin sightings are also quite common.

4. Sea turtles

Sea turtles are marine reptiles, easily recognised by their distinctive brown-patterned shells and large flippers, which help them glide gracefully through the ocean’s waves.

There are six different kinds of sea turtles found in US waters, living in a variety of habitats around the country. Thanks to its many beaches, Florida is especially attractive to sea turtles. In fact, nearly 90% of all sea turtle hatchlings in the United States are found right here in this state.

Sea turtles can stay underwater for up to an hour at a time. Your best chance of spotting them is when they come ashore to lay their eggs or when the eggs hatch and the tiny hatchlings make their way to the sea.

You might be lucky enough to spot sea turtles off Key West in southern Florida, where they come ashore to lay their eggs on the nearby beaches during the nesting season, from March to October.

5. Manatees

The manatee is found along tropical and subtropical coastlines and adjacent waters. It is recognisable by its robust, greyish body, which can weigh up to 1,600 kilograms, and its broad, rounded tail used for swimming.

This gentle giant is a migratory species, seeking out warmer climates, so their habitats change with the seasons. During the summer months, you’ll find them in states such as Alabama and Georgia, while in winter they gather in Florida, especially around Three Sisters Spring in Crystal River.

Because it’s a mammal, the manatee needs to surface regularly for air, so if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of one as it pokes its curious head above the water.

You might be lucky enough to spot manatees along Florida’s Gulf Coast, for example at Three Sisters Springs, where they seek shelter in the warm, clear waters during winter.

6. Alligators

The alligator, a large brown-grey reptile, is instantly recognisable by its sharp teeth, scaly skin, and long body, which can reach up to 4.5 metres in length.

This impressive creature thrives in warm climates and primarily inhabits freshwater swamps and marshes, but can also be found in rivers and lakes. Such conditions are especially common in Florida, which is why the state boasts a particularly high alligator population.

Although alligators are rather slow on land, in water they transform into swift swimmers, thanks to their powerful tails. As a result, alligators predominantly feed on animals that live in or close to the water’s edge.

You might be lucky enough to spot alligators in Everglades National Park, whose marshy terrain is thought to conceal more than 200,000 alligators.

7. Bald eagles – the national animal of the USA

The bald eagle has been the national animal of the USA since 1782 and stands as a symbol of strength and freedom.

As the name suggests, this bird is instantly recognisable by its white head, set in striking contrast to its chocolate-brown body and wings. It is a truly majestic creature, reaching up to 0.9 metres tall with an impressive wingspan of 2 metres.

Unlike many other birds, the bald eagle is a solitary flyer and usually lives and hunts alone. It is most easily spotted along the coastline, where it searches for fish, especially during the winter months.

You might be lucky enough to spot the bald eagle while driving along Highway 1 or visiting Yosemite National Park in California.

8. Bison

The bison is North America’s largest mammal and herbivore. This impressive giant, cloaked in dark brown fur, can reach a height of 2 metres and weigh up to 900 kilos.

Hundreds of years ago, millions of bison roamed North America. However, after Europeans settled in America and expanded their territories, their numbers dwindled to around 1,000 individuals at the start of the 20th century. Fortunately, this trend has been reversed, and today more than 500,000 bison live across most states in the USA.

You might be lucky enough to spot herds of bison in Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park, which are typically considered among the best places to see wild herds.

9. California condor

The California condor, a species of vulture, boasts a wingspan of nearly three metres, making it the largest land bird in North America. This majestic bird wears a striking black plumage and has a bald head in shades of pink and orange.

As its name suggests, California is the primary home of the California condor, though it can also be found in Arizona and north-western Mexico, living in grasslands, mountainous regions, and close to the coast.

In the 1980s, the species was teetering on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 30 recorded condors remaining worldwide. Since then, breeding programmes have been introduced to save the species, and today their population has increased to more than 500 condors.

You might be lucky enough to spot the California condor in several of the national parks across the southwestern USA, for example, at the Grand Canyon, where it soars majestically above the dramatic landscape.

10. Pronghorn

The pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) is a small, deer-like animal, easily recognised by its reddish-brown coat, white belly, and distinctive small, forked horns, which also give the animal its name.

Although the pronghorn antelope, standing at just 90 cm, is far from being one of the largest animals in the USA, this small creature certainly shouldn’t be underestimated. The pronghorn is actually the fastest hoofed animal in North America, reaching impressive speeds of up to 96 km/h.

Pronghorns are found exclusively in North America, roaming freely across the sweeping prairies and steppes. As a migratory species, they move towards wilder regions when winter’s harsh temperatures set in.

You might be lucky enough to spot pronghorns in the Red Desert or Yellowstone National Park in the state of Wyoming, both home to thriving populations of pronghorn.

Frequently asked questions about wildlife in America

Where in the USA is it best to experience wildlife?

You can experience America’s wildlife across the country. The USA’s national parks are among the very best places, and each park harbours its own unique combination of species.

For example, you might be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the shy black bear in Yosemite National Park as it feasts on berries from a bush, while in Everglades National Park you could encounter alligators silently lurking in the water.

When is the best time to spot wildlife in America?

The ideal time of year to observe wild animals in America depends greatly on the species and region. This is due to most animals’ behaviour being closely linked to changes in temperature and food availability throughout the seasons, as well as many animals following migration patterns, moving to different habitats during the year.

Before booking your tour to the USA, it’s a good idea to consider which animals you’re hoping to encounter. That way, you can choose the location and time of year that offers the best chances for memorable wildlife sightings.

Are there dangerous animals in the USA?

Yes, the USA is home to several dangerous animals, such as bears and alligators. However, these creatures typically only pose a risk if you get too close or don’t respect their natural behaviours and habitats.

If you’re exploring without a guide, we always recommend keeping a safe distance from wildlife and taking care when venturing into nature.

Fancy discovering America’s most fascinating wildlife?

Bison, alligators, and black bears are just some of the remarkable creatures you can encounter in the USA.

If you’re looking for unforgettable wildlife experiences, you certainly won’t be disappointed when you journey across the Atlantic.

Not sure which tour to choose for your American adventure? Our experienced travel specialists are ready and waiting to help you plan an unforgettable journey!

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller