By Cole Van Lue
The Hoosier state is home to a number animal species. In this article, we will be discovering some of the most popular animals in the great state of Indiana.
First up on our list is the whitetail deer. These beautiful creatures make their home in Indiana because food is plentiful and there aren’t many predators. While these animals may be graceful, they also can cause a lot of problems for farmers and motorists alike.
A common predator to whitetails are coyotes. Coyotes are sometimes mistaken for dogs because of their appearance. However, I wouldn’t suggest trying to go up and pet one, as coyotes are vicious predators. Coyotes often hunt in packs and play a key role in ensuring a balanced ecosystem. Next time you are near the woods at night, see if you can hear any ‘yotes howling in the distance.
Another animal commonly found in Indiana are raccoons. Raccoons are medium sized mammals that have distinct white spots on their face, making them easy to identify. They are excellent climbers and go into trees in search of shelter and food. While these animals are wild, they have the ability to thrive in both rural and urban environments. It is not uncommon to find a family of raccoons rummaging through a dumpster or trash bins looking for a meal. Make sure you put away all your food the next time you are camping, or these little thieves will run away with it!
A relative to the coyote, red foxes are another predator that is found in Indiana. Foxes are very smart and quick, which makes them great at hunting. They often enjoy eating things like rabbits, squirrels, and songbirds. Typically, red foxes will find shelter in dens when they are raising a family. It is common for 5 or 6 pups to be born in every litter. We have these amazing creatures to thank for keeping our rodent population in balance!
Beavers were once rare in Indiana due to over harvest but are now abundant throughout the state. Believe it or not, beavers are the largest rodent in North America. Adult beavers can weigh between 30 and 70 pounds and measure up to 4 feet long. That is a size of a child! These rodents are most commonly known for their ability to chop down trees and build lodges in the water. By building these dams, beavers can create serious problems with waterways. To combat this, Indiana has a trapping season to prevent overpopulation.
Indiana is home to a wide variety of animals, and each of them play a special role in our complex ecosystem. How many of these animals have you seen in the wild?
The Great Outdoors 