What Wild Animals Are In Illinois

Illinois may not be known for its wild animals like some other states, but there are still plenty of fascinating creatures that call the Prairie State home. From majestic birds to elusive mammals, Illinois has a diverse array of wildlife that can be both beautiful and intriguing to observe. In this article, we will explore some of the wild animals that can be found in Illinois, including whether or not they could potentially be kept as pets.

1. Eastern Cottontail Rabbit: One of the most common mammals in Illinois, the Eastern Cottontail Rabbit can be found throughout the state in forests, fields, and even urban areas. While these cute little bunnies may seem like good pets, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and are best left in their natural habitats.

2. Red Fox: With its striking red fur and bushy tail, the Red Fox is a common sight in Illinois. These clever and adaptable creatures can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to suburban neighborhoods. While foxes may look like they could make good pets, they are actually quite wild and are best left to roam free in the wild.

3. White-tailed Deer: The White-tailed Deer is one of the most iconic animals in Illinois, and can be found in abundance throughout the state. These elegant creatures are a common sight in forests and fields, and are often seen grazing along roadsides. While deer may seem like gentle creatures, they are best admired from a distance, as they can be dangerous if approached too closely.

4. Eastern Gray Squirrel: The Eastern Gray Squirrel is a familiar sight in Illinois, with its bushy tail and lively antics. These playful creatures can be found in forests, parks, and even urban areas, where they are known for their acrobatic abilities. While squirrels may seem cute and cuddly, they are best left in the wild, as they can be quite destructive if kept as pets.

5. American Robin: The American Robin is a common bird in Illinois, known for its cheerful song and bright red breast. These friendly birds can be found in gardens, parks, and woodlands throughout the state, where they are often seen hopping along the ground in search of insects. While robins may be tempting to keep as pets, they are best left to enjoy their natural habitats.

6. Eastern Box Turtle: The Eastern Box Turtle is a native species of turtle in Illinois, known for its distinctive shell and colorful markings. These fascinating reptiles can be found in forests, fields, and wetlands throughout the state, where they are often seen basking in the sun or foraging for food. While box turtles may seem like interesting pets, they require specialized care and are best left in the wild.

7. Great Horned Owl: The Great Horned Owl is a majestic bird of prey that can be found in Illinois, with its large size and distinctive tufts of feathers on its head. These powerful predators can be found in forests, fields, and even urban areas, where they hunt for small mammals and birds. While owls may seem intriguing as pets, they are wild animals that require specialized care and are best left in their natural habitats.

8. Coyote: The Coyote is a cunning and adaptable predator that can be found throughout Illinois, in both rural and urban areas. These intelligent animals are known for their howling calls and elusive behavior, making them a mysterious presence in the state. While coyotes may seem intriguing as pets, they are wild animals that are best admired from a distance.

9. Raccoon: The Raccoon is a familiar sight in Illinois, with its distinctive black mask and ringed tail. These clever and resourceful creatures can be found in forests, fields, and even urban areas, where they are known for their scavenging habits. While raccoons may seem cute and cuddly, they are wild animals that can be quite destructive if kept as pets.

10. Red-tailed Hawk: The Red-tailed Hawk is a common bird of prey in Illinois, known for its soaring flight and piercing cry. These impressive raptors can be found in forests, fields, and along highways, where they hunt for small mammals and birds. While red-tailed hawks may be tempting to keep as pets, they are wild animals that require specialized care and are best left in their natural habitats.

Uncommon Knowledge Facts:

1. Eastern Cottontail Rabbits are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the dawn and dusk hours.

2. White-tailed Deer can jump up to 30 feet in a single bound.

3. Great Horned Owls have excellent hearing and can pinpoint the location of prey using only sound.

4. Red Foxes have excellent eyesight and can see in low light conditions.

5. Coyotes are highly adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of habitats, from forests to urban areas.

What these animals eat and why:

1. Eastern Cottontail Rabbit: Cottontail rabbits are herbivores, feeding on a variety of plants, grasses, and vegetables. They have a diet high in fiber, which helps maintain their digestive health and keep their teeth worn down.

2. Red Fox: Red foxes are omnivores, eating a diet that includes small mammals, birds, insects, fruits, and vegetables. They are opportunistic feeders, hunting for prey when available and scavenging for food when necessary.

3. White-tailed Deer: White-tailed deer are herbivores, feeding on a variety of plants, including grasses, leaves, and twigs. They are ruminants, meaning they have a specialized stomach that allows them to digest tough plant material.

4. Eastern Gray Squirrel: Gray squirrels are omnivores, eating a diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, insects, and even bird eggs. They are known for their habit of burying food for later consumption, which helps them survive during times of scarcity.

5. American Robin: American robins are omnivores, feeding on a diet that includes insects, worms, fruits, and berries. They are known for their distinctive feeding behavior, hopping along the ground to search for food.

In conclusion, while the wild animals of Illinois may be tempting to keep as pets, it’s important to remember that they are best left in their natural habitats. These creatures play vital roles in the ecosystem, and their behavior and diet are specialized for survival in the wild. If you’re interested in observing these fascinating animals, there are many opportunities to see them in their natural habitats, such as state parks, wildlife refuges, and nature preserves. So grab your binoculars and camera, and head out to explore the diverse wildlife of Illinois!