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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© Jim O'DriscollFox or Coyote? How to Tell the Difference
Most of us only ever catch fleeting glimpses of coyotes or foxes, and these brief encounters can leave us wondering what species we saw.
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How to Recognize 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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Fish CrowCrow, Raven, or Grackle? How to Tell the Difference
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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Groton, MA © Scott Eggimann
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.
Find a Wildlife Rehabilitator
If a bird or animal is really injured, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Upcoming Programs
See all programsGive a Hoot About Owls
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Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Mattapan
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Sunday, November 24
10:30am-12:00pm
Families - children 5 - 12 years
Destination Birding With a Scone: Rexhame Beach
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Rexhame Beach, Marshfield
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Tuesday, November 26
8:00-11:00am
Adults
Friday Morning Birding
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Newburyport and vicinity
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Friday, November 29
8:30-11:30am
Adults
Latest News
See More
Another Raptor Dies of Poisoning. This Time, a Great Horned Owl in Belmont
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Power of People
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Focusing on Wildlife: The Photography of Cheryl Rose in the Gallery at Broadmoor
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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.