While the United States may be home to some of the most beautiful natural and urban landscapes, it is also home to a variety of unique wildlife often found nowhere else in the world. With over 3,000 native species ranging from birds and insects to formidable beasts like the grizzly bear, there’s something for every type of animal lover.
As much as heading to the local zoo is a popular choice for the most inexperienced tourists, you’ll likely end up seeing the same caged up animals you can find back home. A better alternative is to head out and discover the myriad of wildlife available in its natural habitat.
Whether it is the iconic fauna local sports teams are named after or more peculiar creatures that you’re looking for, here are a few of the most interesting creatures found in different parts of the country.
Bears
The United States is home to one of the widest varieties of bears and most are found in the colder Northern regions where their thick fur coats are utilized most. If you’re looking to spot the famous grizzly bear, larger members of the family can be seen at the Katmai National Park & Preserve.
Otherwise, you can head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to spot some of the 1,500 black bears roaming around the area. If you’re willing to head further North into Alaska, you’ll be one of the few people to see the elusive polar bear in its natural habitat.
Antelope
Aside from bears, these herbivore giants of the woods are likely the first animals to spring to mind when thinking about the US. Elk is considered to be one of the most majestic and interesting of the bunch. Large herds totaling around 7,500 elk can be found migrating around the Grand Teton National Park every winter.
For something a little more Western, head to Badlands National Park or Custer State Park to see some bison in action. If you’re closer to the Canadian border around US Route 3, be sure to look out for some Moose. They’re often seen all-year round, resulting in the area being known as Moose Alley.
Oddities
If the more traditional fauna doesn’t tickle your fancy, rest assured that the US is home to many species that are more Australianthan American. This includes the largest bat population in the world – roughly 20 million strong. They can be found a few miles away from Bracken Cave in Texas.
Travelers heading to the more tropical regions such as Hawaii can expect to see the otherworldly coconut crab, a large monstrosity that has many interesting and even terrifying attributes. Head over to Midday Daily News to read more about this strange creature.
Wolverines are another elusive but unique species that call the US their home. Keep an eye out for one if you’re heading to Glacier Park.
Conclusion
There are thousands of other interesting animals to discover during your stay. So be sure to spend every minute you have exploring and seeing just how much the United States has to offer.
