Animals: Mammals

Beavers are just one of the many species of mammals that call this park home.

NPS/G.Etter

Let's Talk, Mammals

Mammals are classified as animals that have hair at some point in their lives, produce milk to feed their young, maintain a constant body temperature (warm-blooded), and have inner ear bones. Just like you or me. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is filled with a variety of different habitats suitable for many types of mammals, from mice to people and lots of different species in between.

Under the leaf litter, you may find mice and shrews. In more open areas you might find bobcats, groundhogs, cottontail rabbits, weasels, skunks, red fox, coyotes or white-tailed deer. Along the park's waterways, look for raccoons, muskrats, mink, beaver and if you're lucky enough, you might even see some otters frolicking along the river bank. In the forest, look for gray squirrels (some are jet black), gray fox, and black bear. At dusk, look up to see different species of bats honing in on mosquitoes and moths, and flying squirrels gliding their way from tree to tree.

Whether you're hiking, paddling or just driving through, there are many species of mammals to see throughout the park. If you see something interesting, let one of our rangers know. We would love to hear from you.

 

An American Black Bear is one of many mammals that make this place their home. Please respect the wildlife in the park. Click on this photo to learn more about bears.

NPS/D.Mohr

Don't Feed the Bears

Black Bears are beautiful and sometimes misunderstood mammals. One of the most common questions we get from visitors is "Are there Bears?". It is usually asked with a little bit of concern, or even fear. Would it surprised you to learn that bear attacks are extremely rare, particularly in our region? It's true. Most people might never see a bear when they visit the park. Black bears are afraid of humans, so they follow their instincts and keep their distance.

When it comes to bears, the biggest problem we have with them here is food. They love our food. That half-eaten apple in the trash is a treasure to a bear. That's why it's important to always dispose of your trash in bear-proof trash cans when visiting. When bears and other wildlife get used to human food, it puts that animal in danger of contact with humans. This endangers both people and the animal. This is why we never feed the animals here. The need to know how to find their food naturally, without our help. We love our furry friends here, and bet you do too. Thanks for helping us protect wildlife.

Follow this link to learn more about Bear Safety