Forest Wildlife

Maryland is home to three species of falcons. The American Kestrel is the most common, and resident populations can be found across the state. Read about the kestrel's unique features and ways to observe it.

Where Maryland’s topography varies enough so that gentle or steep banks rise above the rivers, streams, ponds, lakes, and estuaries, and where trees are found along the water’s edge, you may find one of the state’s most fascinating birds: the belted kingfisher. A year-round resident, this colorful hunter lives throughout Maryland.

it comes as a surprise to many that Maryland is home to a second species of fox. However, the gray fox is indeed native to the state and the region, and can be found throughout most of North America.

As summer yields to fall, deciduous trees throughout the mid-Atlantic states lose their leaves in an often-spectacular display of color. However, not all hardwood trees participate in this pageantry, and decide to hang onto their leaves until spring. This is called "marcescence." Why it occurs is another question.

Read our "Woodland Wildlife Spotlight" and "Invasives in Your Woodland," and take the Brain Tickler challenge. There's also an introduction to two new members of the Woodland Stewardship Education program team, and an announcement about the fall 2018 Maryland Woodland Stewards workshop.

Maryland is home to four members of the weasel family: mink, river otters, long-tailed weasels, and fishers. In the state, fishers are second only in size to river otters, but they occupy a distinctly different ecological niche. Of these four species, the fisher is perhaps the most elusive, due in part to its mostly nocturnal behavior, but once you have seen one, you won’t confuse it with another species.

Once you’ve heard the call of the Chuck-will’s-widow, chances are you won’t easily forget it. This vocal bird has been observed, or heard, throughout Maryland except for in Carroll County.

Maryland is home to two members of the skunk family. The striped skunk is found throughout the state. The striped skunk is actually a very successful species, with a range that occupies a large portion of North America. While the mammals have adapted to a wide range of environments, they prefer habitat with a variety of woodlands and open fields, and with a water supply within 2 miles of their home range.

The News and Notes roundup for this issue features more kudos for Maryland Forest Service Project Manager Mike Kay, a study about the importance of community forests, news about bats, and an invitation to list your green industry business in a new Extension directory.

The sharp-shinned hawk is unlike many of the raptors that make a home in Maryland. Some migrate to warmer habitats; others will remain year round. The sharp-shinned hawk, apparently, does both.