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To celebrate America's 250th birthday, we at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are highlighting the incredible wildlife that calls this beautiful country home. From American icons to subtle specialists, join us as we highlight seven species each week: one species for each of the 250 days leading up to America's 250th birthday.
Differential grasshopper (Melanoplus differentialis)
The differential grasshopper is common and widespread across central and eastern states. It's easily identified by its large size and black herringbone markings on its yellow hind legs. Grasshopper eggs overwinter and hatch in the spring, starting their seasonal life cycle over again.
Anna’s hummingbird (Calypte anna)
Anna's hummingbirds are a stunning year-round resident along the Pacific Coast. They remain active feeding on winter blooms, tree sap and hummingbird feeders. Males begin elaborate courtship displays in December, diving from the sky with high-pitched squeaks.
Bowfin (Amia calva)
Bowfin are found in slow-moving rivers, swamps and backwaters across the eastern United States. They're known for their long dorsal fin and ability to breathe air using a primitive lung. In the colder months they become less active, retreating to deep, vegetated waters.
American marten (Martes americana)
American martens are found in northern forests across the U.S. and Canada. They're skilled hunters, able to climb trees and catch prey under the snow. They remain active year-round, sometimes tunneling in the snow.
California giant salamander (Dicamptodon ensatus)
The California giant salamander is one of the largest terrestrial salamanders in North America. They live in moist forests and streams in northern California, often hidden beneath rocks, logs or underground. In the winter, adults shelter in cool, damp areas while larvae remain in cold mountain streams.
Great horned owl (Bubo virginianus)
Great horned owls are one of North America's most powerful and widespread raptors. These ambush predators have strong talons, sharp beaks and silent flight. Listen for late night hooting as courtship begins in late fall and early winter.
Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis)
The Pacific halibut is a massive flatfish found in the cold waters of the north Pacific Ocean. Some may grow up to 8 feet long and weigh more than 400 pounds. This time of year, these fish are beginning their annual migration to deeper offshore waters to spawn, settling at depths of up to 1,500 feet!
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