Animals

The following types of vertebrates are found at Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site. Vertebrates are defined as having a backbone or spinal column. Warm-blooded vertebrates like birds and mammals, maintain a consistent body temperature regardless of the temperature in their surroundings. Cold-blooded vertebrates such as amphibians, fish, and reptiles, do not have the ability to control their temperature and can become sluggish in colder weather.

Amphibians

The word "amphibian" comes from a Greek word meaning "double life." Amphibians spend part of their life on land and part in water. While some outgrow their gills as they mature, all amphibians are born with them. There are 19 species of amphibians at the park.

Birds

Birds are characterized by their feathers, beak, and wings. Most birds have the ability to fly, but not all species. Some find a home here, and others are just passing through during migration. Birdwatching is a popular activity at national parks. Learn about the 120 species of birds at the park.

Fish

Fish live in fresh or salt water. They are a diverse group, with the different types of water that they thrive in, as well as temperature tolerance and size. Most species of fish have scales that cover their body and gills for breathing. There are 18 species of fish at the park.

Mammals

Mammals are animals with lungs. Most mammals have hair and birth live young. Mothers produce milk to feed their young. They can live in water or on land. Mammals have a more developed brain compared to other types of animals. There are 33 species of mammals at the park.

Reptiles

Reptiles include snakes, turtles, crocodiles, and lizards. Reptiles are characterized by the scales that cover part or all of their bodies. Some have short legs and some crawl on their bellies. Most reptiles lay soft shelled eggs on land. There are 12 species of reptiles at the park.