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
-
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!”.
-
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.
-
© 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.
-
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.
-
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?
-
Indigo Bunting
15 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!”.
-
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.
-
© Jim O'Driscoll
Fox 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.
-
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.
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 programsSpring Birding at Fowl Meadows
-
Burma Trail Parking Lot, Milton
-
Saturday, March 15
8:00-11:00am
Adults
Tiny Trekkers - Owl Prowl
-
Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Norfolk
-
Saturday, March 15
10:00-11:30am
Families - children 3 - 6 years
Exploring Coastal Cape Cod: High Head
-
Saturday, March 15
10:00am-2:00pm
Adults
Latest News
See More
Teaching Biodiversity, One Program at a Time
Keep Reading
Q & A with Department of Fish & Game Commissioner Tom O’Shea
Keep Reading
A 50 Year Journey to Save the Critically Endangered Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle
Keep Reading
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.