Mammals:
* Large Mammals:
* White-tailed Deer: The most abundant large mammal, often seen in forests, fields, and even near roads.
* Black Bear: A common resident of the state's forests, known for its scavenging nature.
* Moose: A majestic sight, particularly in northern New Hampshire, where they thrive in forested areas and wetlands.
* Bobcat: A secretive and elusive wild cat, often found in wooded areas.
* Coyote: A highly adaptable canine, found in a variety of habitats, known for its vocalizations.
* Fisher: A small, mustelid, often found in the high country, known for its ability to climb trees.
* Porcupine: A prickly mammal, known for its defensive quills.
* Beaver: A semi-aquatic rodent, known for its dam-building activities.
* Small Mammals:
* Red Squirrel: A common sight in coniferous forests, known for its acrobatic abilities.
* Gray Squirrel: A tree-dwelling rodent, often found in parks and suburban areas.
* Snowshoe Hare: A white-furred hare, known for its large feet adapted for snowy conditions.
* Eastern Cottontail Rabbit: A small rabbit, found in a variety of habitats.
* Eastern Chipmunk: A striped rodent, often seen scurrying around on the forest floor.
* Woodchuck: A large groundhog, known for its burrowing habits.
* Vole: Small, mouse-like rodents, often found in fields and meadows.
Birds:
* Raptor:
* Bald Eagle: A majestic bird of prey, often seen soaring over lakes and rivers.
* Red-tailed Hawk: A common hawk, often seen perched on utility poles or hunting in fields.
* Great Horned Owl: A nocturnal predator, known for its distinctive ear tufts.
* Peregrine Falcon: A fast-flying falcon, known for its hunting abilities.
* Songbirds:
* American Robin: A common sight in backyards and parks, known for its cheerful song.
* Blue Jay: A colorful and noisy bird, often found in forests and woodlands.
* Chickadee: A small, energetic bird, known for its call.
* Cardinal: A bright red bird, often seen at bird feeders.
* Woodpecker: A group of birds known for their drumming on trees.
* Warbler: A diverse group of songbirds, known for their colorful plumage and intricate songs.
* Waterfowl:
* Canada Goose: A common goose, often seen in parks and on lakes.
* Mallard: A common duck, found in wetlands and ponds.
* Wood Duck: A colorful duck, often found in wooded areas near water.
Reptiles & Amphibians:
* Snakes:
* Garter Snake: A common, non-venomous snake, found in a variety of habitats.
* Northern Water Snake: A semi-aquatic snake, often found near water.
* Eastern Milk Snake: A non-venomous snake, often mistaken for a venomous snake.
* Turtles:
* Painted Turtle: A common turtle, found in ponds and lakes.
* Snapping Turtle: A large turtle, known for its powerful jaws.
* Salamanders:
* Eastern Newt: A small salamander, often found in ponds and streams.
* Spotted Salamander: A large salamander, often found in forests.
Fish:
* Trout: A popular sport fish, found in many New Hampshire rivers and lakes.
* Bass: A common game fish, found in lakes and ponds.
* Pike: A predatory fish, found in lakes and rivers.
This is just a sample of the diverse wildlife you might encounter in New Hampshire. Be sure to observe these animals from a safe distance and respect their natural habitats.