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Mysterious Animals Found in Maine

Maine is the northernmost and easternmost state in New England, where it is known for its beautiful landscape and especially harsh winters. The animals of Maine have had to adapt to the climate over the years, which can also be very hot and humid during the summer months. Most of Maine is still covered with jagged mountains and dense forest, making it excellent for the wild life that can endure the weather.

Maine Coon
- The official cat of Maine, the Maine coon is one of the oldest natural breeds in the United States. With its thick, water resistant coat and large, tufted paws this feline has adapted to the harsh winter climate of Maine. Said to make an excellent domestic pet due to its easy-going nature, Maine coons generally get along well with children, dogs and other cats. With males weighing as much as 18 pounds, Maine coons are the largest domesticated feline.
Red Fox
- Red foxes prefer to hunt small game.
  
  The intelligent and cunning red fox is a solitary animal that adapts well to diverse habitats from grasslands and mountains to the suburbs and large communities. Red foxes feed on small game such as rodents and birds, but have been known to dine on fruits and vegetables or garbage. Much like a cat, their large, bushy tail helps with balance but is also used to communicate with other foxes and to protect them from cold weather.
Bald Eagle
- Bald eagles are America's national birds.
  
  The national bird of the United States, the bald eagle is the only unique eagle to North America. Their heads are covered in white feathers, so they are not actually bald as their name insinuates. The bald eagle was once hunted for sport and to protect fishing areas, but the numbers have increased significantly and they are no longer considered endangered. Bald eagles prefer a diet of fish and small mammals.
Snowshoe Hare
- Snowshoe hares turn white in the winter.
  
  The large, extra furry rear feet of a snowshoe hare help it trek through the thick snow in winter. During the winter they have a white coat to help blend into the snow, giving them cover from predators, though the color changes to brown in the spring. Common with both rabbits and hares, snowshoe hares breed several times a year, producing up to eight babies or leverets per litter.
Barn Owl
- Barn owls are nocturnal hunters.
  
  The nocturnal barn owl is a meat-eating bird, preying mostly on small mammals such as mice and rabbits. They have a wingspan of 39 to 49 inches, but they are silent at night due to the fringe-edged feathers preventing a swooshing sound. Barn owls have an acute sense of sight and hearing, a hooked beak for tearing meat, and large grasping talons, making them excellent night hunters. Barn owls are widely recognized for their white, heart-shaped faces.

Animals & Science