Hidden Gems of U.S. Wildlife: From Mountain Lions to New York’s Parrots

The United States is a mosaic of diverse ecosystems and habitats, each harboring unique animal species. From the sprawling plains where giant bison roam to the forests teeming with wolverines, every corner of this vast country surprises with its wealth of wildlife. This article delves into some lesser-known animals that might surprise people to find out exist in the wild across the United States.

Discovering Surprising Species in the U.S.

The diverse landscapes of the United States, ranging from coastal waters to mountainous regions and expansive grasslands, are home to a myriad of fascinating and sometimes unexpected species. Here are some animals that might surprise anyone learning about them for the first time:

American Bison

Often associated with the Great Plains, the American Bison is a majestic sight in national parks like Yellowstone and Badlands. These massive animals, making up a population of thousands, are a symbol of the prairie's wild landscapes. Bison are vital to the ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining prairie biodiversity.

Florida Manatee

The Florida Manatee, or sea cow, is a gentle giant known for its distinctive wrinkly gray skin. Despite being an iconic symbol of the state, many are surprised to learn that these creatures can be found in the warm coastal waters of Florida. These mammals are a critical part of the ecosystem, helping maintain the health of seagrass beds and providing a unique species for ecotourism.

California Condor

Once on the brink of extinction, the California Condor has made a remarkable comeback. These large, vulture-like birds can be seen soaring in parts of California and Arizona, particularly around the Grand Canyon. The condor population is carefully managed and protected, making sightings of these magnificent creatures a rare yet exhilarating experience.

Mountain Lion (Cougar)

More widespread than many realize, Mountain Lions, also known as cougars, are found in various regions across the U.S. including the Rocky Mountains and even suburban areas. These big cats, while elusive, are more common than often perceived. Their presence highlights the adaptability of the species to diverse environments, from remote wilderness to urban suburbs.

Even Closer to Home: New York City’s Surprising Parrots

Often thought of as rainforest birds, parrots have found a surprising home in New York City. Allegedly, these iconic birds are the offspring of a shipment of South American Parrots that got loose at JFK airport. However they made it to the city, they are quite an unexpected sight in the concrete jungle.

These parrots have evolved to fit their urban environment, with nests as large as 3 to 5 feet tall by 2 to 3 feet wide. Built near power transformers, these nests serve as shelter and roosting sites. The birds, which are about half the size of their South American counterparts and dull blue-gray in color, stay put all day and come out at night, much to the surprise of urban residents. The city often removes these nests, only for them to return a short time later, displaying the resilience of these birds in an unexpected habitat.

Unusual Sighting in Brooklyn

Another fascinating discovery in Brooklyn is a falcon that frequents a park in Bay Ridge. I witnessed a falcon land in a meadow, standing there for at least ten minutes. The large Arab community in Bay Ridge might be linked to this sight, as falcons are symbols of a rich cultural heritage.

These surprising sightings and findings highlight the incredible biodiversity of the United States, from the wild prairies to the bustling urban areas. Each discovery adds a layer to the story of the nation's rich and diverse wildlife.