The U.S. may be known for its tall skyscrapers and bustling cities. But it is also home to some of the world’s most delicate and diverse ecosystems. As such, it is possible to find numerous wildlife parks in the country that offer visitors the chance to catch glimpses of several endangered species of birds and animals. Here are 6 such destinations in the U.S. that are considered as ‘must-visits’ for any wildlife enthusiast.
Yellowstone National Park
Situated in Wyoming, the Yellowstone National Park stretches for over 2.2 acres, covering three states in the process. The park’s central highlights are its super volcano as well as the ‘Old Faithful’ geyser. The part is also home to over 67 different varieties of animals, including elk, black and grizzly bears, bison, mountain lions, coyotes, grey wolves, wolverines and bald eagles, etc. A visit to the Yellowstone National Park will definitely give you the feeling of stepping into an animal kingdom.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Located in Kentucky, the Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the longest cave system on earth. The Mammoth Cave after which the park is named, features over 400 miles of underground terrain filled with never ending turns and twists. While exploring the cave is an adventure in itself, catching glimpses of its inhabitants is an otherworldly experience altogether. Some of the creatures that can be seen in and around the cave include white tailed deer, opossums, Kentucky Cave shrimps, river otters and several species of bats.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina/Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to more than 200 varieties of birds, mammals, fishes and reptiles. The park’s unofficial symbol is the black bear owing to the latter’s population which is estimated to be around 1500. Some of the other animals you can find in this impressive stretch of natural land are elk, white tailed deer, groundhogs, salamander and bats.
Acadia National Park in Maine
Located in New England, Acadia is situated along the state’s rocky eastern coast. In addition to offering visitors stupendous views of the coastline, the 53000 acre park gives visitors the chance to catch glimpses of a wide variety of birds and mammals. Some of the birds that can be spotted here regularly include songbirds, seabirds, herons and harlequin ducks. It is also fairly easy to spot a wide variety of crabs, starfishes, dolphins, seals and whales along the coastline.
Virgin Islands National Park in St. John
Located on Virgin Island and occupying nearly 65% of the entire island, the Virgin Islands National Park is a great wildlife destination for those who love marine creatures. The crystal clear waters along the coast of the island are home to several hundred species of fishes and coral reefs. Of course, there is plenty to see on land as well, including several species of frogs, lizards, bats and wild donkeys.
Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska
The Kenai Fjords National Park lies to the south of the Denali National Park, and contains the Harding Icefield, one of the largest ice fields in the country. Most of the park is accessible via boats, with nearly half of it being covered in ice. Boat rides to the park can offer visitors the opportunity to witness a wide variety of sea lions, seals, sea otters, hump back whales and orcas in action. The park is also home to several mountain goats, black bears, Alaskan brown bears, moose and caribou. Located right next to the park is the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge where visitors with permits can camp, fish and even hunt caribou and moose.
The U.S. is home to several wildlife national parks that boast of housing an impressive range of birds, mammals, reptiles and fishes. These parks are the best destinations in the entire country to view wildlife at its best and in a natural environment.