Pennsylvania’s home to its fair share of wildlife – from elk and deer to skunks and bison. But, some of the wildlife we’ve seen in years past have either largely disappeared from the area or aren’t seen very often. Some wildlife, however, is becoming increasingly more common in the neighborhoods and suburbs of Pennsylvania. If you see any of these four wild animals in Pennsylvania, definitely keep a safe distance.

1. Mountain Lion
Flickr/Valerie
Mountain lions, also commonly known as cougars, are officially extinct in both Pennsylvania and the United States east of the Mississippi. However, mountain lion sightings in Pennsylvania are still being reported. Despite the reported sightings of mountain lions in Pennsylvania, officials state that individuals are mistaking the bobcat for the mountain lion.
2. Bobcat
Flickr/Kevin H.
Around 20,000 bobcats live in Pennsylvania, accounting for the increase of bobcat sightings across the state. In fact, as we previously mentioned, most people mistake bobcats for the extinct mountain lion. A shy animal, bobcats are nocturnal, which means they’re more active in the nighttime hours. However, if you’ve heard of bobcat sightings locally, take extra precautions by never leaving your dog or small animal outdoors alone to avoid them being snatched by a hungry bobcat.

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3. Black Bear
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
Black bears aren’t exactly out-of-place in Pennsylvania. But, they are increasingly popping up more and more in the suburbs and in backyards. Today’s population stands at around 20,000, according to state officials. However, with the breeding season in June and July, those numbers increase annually. Keep an eye out for black bears in your neighborhood, particularly at dawn and at dusk when they are most active. Never approach or feed a black bear. And, deter black bears from coming into your yard by not leaving dog, cat, bird, or other food outdoors.
4. Coyote
Flickr/Tjflex2
Once extinct in Pennsylvania, coyotes returned in the 1930s. The coyote population is said to be quite healthy in Pennsylvania, in part because they feed on deer (among other animals), which are quite easy to find in the state. Experts assert that coyotes typically steer clear of humans and even larger dogs. But you really should take precautions, especially if there have been reports of coyotes in your neighborhood. Always stay outdoors with your dog and your other small pets. Avoid leaving food out for dogs, cats, and birds while keeping your garbage cans tightly secured. Coyotes may not be on the hunt for your extra bird food or garbage, but the garbage may attract rats and mice, a favorite food of coyotes.

How many of these wild animals in Pennsylvania have you seen? Let us know in the comments! Then check out these stunning photographs of some of Pennsylvania’s native wildlife.

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More to Explore

Animals In Pennsylvania

Beth Price-Williams | December 14, 2022

What are some of the most dangerous animals in Pennsylvania?

Wild animals may look cute, but they’re wild and can be dangerous. Here are just a few of the most dangerous animals in Pennsylvania:

  • While they might be utterly adorable, black bears top the list of most dangerous animals in Pennsylvania. The black bear population in Pennsylvania hovers around 20,000, and these wild animals have an average lifespan of 25 years.
  • Timber rattlesnakes are most often seen in the forested areas of Pennsylvania and awake from winter hibernation in April.
  • Ticks pose a threat to humans and animals because they carry Lyme Disease.
  • Black widows are a common poisonous spider in Pennsylvania, and their bite is extremely dangerous.

 

Coyotes are increasingly common in suburban areas of Pennsylvania. Keep an eye on your dogs, cats, and small animals, who are prey for these dangerous animals in Pennsylvania.

Where are some places I can see wild animals in Pennsylvania?

While we want to steer clear of the most dangerous animals in Pennsylvania in the wild, we can still admire them from afar. Here are just a few places to see wild animals in Pennsylvania:

 

What are the best zoos in Pennsylvania?

One of the best places to see wild animals in Pennsylvania is in one of its zoos. Here are a few Pennsylvania zoos that are worth a visit:

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