Animals
Acadia National Park encompasses over 47,000 acres, yet in this relatively small space of fresh and salt water, forests, meadows, mountains, and beaches, there is a wide diversity of wildlife. There are over 28 species of fish, over 300 species of birds, and over 40 species of mammals. All of these animals combine to make a unique ecological environment.
Acadia National Park is an angler's dream and a bird-watcher's fantasy. The land, water, and sky over head at Acadia are full of an assortment of animals, including brook trout, peregrine falcons and bald eagles. While many of these animals call the Park home all year, others may just be stopping by on their route to another destination. Yet each animal in Acadia's ecosystem is closely tried to this unique environment.
Eleven species of amphibians – frogs, toads, and salamanders – live in the various bodies of water in Acadia. Every visitor is soon alerted to these amphibians when they hear the croak of a bullfrog. Wooded areas, streams and wetlands provide excellent places to hide for all the salamanders.
The offshore islands that form a part of the Park provide a habitat for sea birds, herons, and raptors. These same islands serve as a winter habitat for some shorebirds, to include purple sandpipers and ducks. Both the bald eagle and the peregrine falcon use areas within the Park. The peregrine falcon is an impressive bird, which can achieve speeds over 200 mph when diving. Once on the endangered species list, the peregrine falcon is making a comeback, thanks to conservation efforts in Acadia National Park.
Anglers in Acadia National Park can hook brook trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth bass and lake trout. However, the majority of the fish species found within the Park are non-game species.
Among the many mammals that you can see in the Park, are white-tailed deer, the eastern coyote, red fox, snowshoe rabbits, beaver and harbor seals. Whale watching is also a favorite pastime.
Currently OutsideOther pages you might find helpful:
American Birding Association
The American Birding Association is designed to educate and increase skills of recreational birders throughout the country.
Watchable Wildlife Incorporated
Watchable Wildlife Inc. provides educational resources on how to promote tourism while conserving wildlife.
