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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.
Mountain goat (Oreamnos americanus)
The mountain goat is an impressive climber found in steep, rugged alpine areas of the northwestern U.S. and Canada. Even in winter, they remain active at high elevations, moving across ridges where snow is shallow and vegetation is exposed. Their dense fur and slow metabolism help them survive brutal winters.
Yellow warbler (Setophaga petechia)
The yellow warbler is an energetic bird known for its cheerful song and brilliant plumage. While they're a summer staple across much of the U.S., they spend winters in Central and South America, foraging in tropical forests, mangroves and scrublands.
American bison (Bison bison)
With their massive heads and thick coats, American bison are built to endure even the harshest winters. As the snow gets deep, they use their heads and strong necks to sweep snow away and reach buried grass on the frozen prairie.
Humboldt's flying squirrel (Glaucomys oregonensis)
The Humboldt's flying squirrel is a nocturnal glider found in coastal coniferous forests of the Pacific Northwest. They use a furry membrane to glide silently between trees in search of fungi, lichens and seeds. Even in winter, they remain active at night.
American badger (Taxidea taxus)
The American badger is a solitary mammal found in open grasslands and prairies across much of the western and central United States. Known for their powerful digging claws, they create extensive burrows. Once burrows are abandoned, a variety of other species will use them including burrowing owls, foxes, skunks, salamanders and frogs.
Mountain lion (Puma concolor)
The mountain lion, also known as cougar or puma, is the most widespread wild cat in the Americas, ranging from the forests of Canada to the mountains of South America. These elusive predators can be found from rugged mountains to deserts and forests. In the winter they remain active, hunting prey and patrolling large territories.
Snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus)
The snowy owl is a stunning predator that spends summers in the Arctic tundra. These owls make irruptive migrations in the winter, sometimes traveling long distances in search of food. In extreme years, they may be spotted as far south as Texas and Florida.
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