National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Longfellow National Historic SiteEarly 20th century view of Longfellow House.
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Longfellow National Historic Site
Mammals
An eastern gray squirrel in a tree at Longfellow National Historic Site.

An eastern gray squirrel in a tree at the park.

Several species of small mammals can be seen on the grounds at Longfellow National Historic Site. 

The most common animal on site is the eastern gray squirrel, some of which have made their home in the old linden tree on the east lawn. The squirrels can be found almost everywhere; in the trees, on the lawns, in the gardens digging for bulbs, or even running across the roof of the house.

 
A cottontail rabbit grazing on the lawn at Longfellow National Historic Site.

A cottontail rabbit grazing on the lawn at Longfellow NHS.

Cottontail rabbits are known to live on site as well, but are not as easy to spot as the squirrels. The best chance to spot a cottontail at the park is in the garden in the morning, where it might be nibbling on some of the plants.

Other animals that have been seen on the grounds are raccoons, skunks, and opossums. Being mostly nocturnal, these three visitors to the site are rarely seen, although the occasional lingering smell of the skunk is a sure sign that it passed through the night before.

Engraving of Washington taking command of the army.  

Did You Know?
George Washington assumed command of the Continental Army in Cambridge on July 3, 1775. The house at 105 Brattle Street served as his headquarters for the next nine months.

Last Updated: July 01, 2008 at 09:02 EST