Mammals in Massachusetts

There are nine species of bats that have historically lived in Massachusetts, several of which are state listed as Endangered.  

The only bear species that makes its home in Massachusetts is the black bear.

Easily recognizable by its long, broad tail, and its noticeably big and sharp front incisor teeth, beavers are most active at night.

The bobcat is the only species of wild cat now found in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts is home to two species of wild rabbit—the native New England Cottontail and the non-native Eastern Cottontail.

The Eastern Chipmunk is an industrious member of the squirrel family found in the United States, mainly east of the Great Plains.

Coyotes are resourceful creatures who have successfully adapted to areas altered by people.

The white-tailed deer is the most abundant of Massachusetts' large game animals.

Fishers are the second-largest member of the weasel family found in Massachusetts, after the North American River Otter. 

Learn about foxes in Massachusetts including their life cycle, habits, and how to identify them. 

Moose can be found in central and western Massachusetts. Occasionally, a moose may even be spotted in the eastern part of the state.

While some landowners disdain moles, their benefits are numerous.

Raccoons typically inhabit wooded areas adjacent to a water source; however, because they can find good food where people live.

The charismatic clowns of the weasel family, otters can be found near streams, rivers, lakes, and swamps.

The Virginia opossum is more closely related to kangaroos than to any other mammal in North America. 

Porcupines, well known for the quills, are the second largest rodent in North America.

An extremely adaptable species, squirrels are at home everywhere from midtown parks to oak forests.

Learn all about the lives of skunks in Massachusetts, including how to deter them from your yard humanely and what to do if you or a pet gets sprayed. 

Learn all about woodchucks (aka groundhogs) in Massachusetts, including their behaviors, life cycle, garden deterrence, and Groundhog Day with Ms. G.