The United States is an incredible and diverse place—not just in its landscapes but also in the variety of animals that thrive here. From cozy farmyards and family homes to expansive national parks and shimmering coastal waters, you’ll find all sorts of creatures across every state. Whether it’s beloved pets like cats and dogs, farm animals such as cows and chickens, exotic species in zoos from distant lands, or wild animals roaming through forests and wetlands, the U.S. is a vibrant tapestry of life. This guide shines a light on the amazing diversity of animals—wild, domestic, farm-raised, and exotic—that make each state their home.
Below is a state-by-state overview showcasing a broad spectrum of animal life, from natural wildlife to household companions and farm staples:
Alabama
Known for white-tailed deer and bobcats in its forests, Alabama is also home to horses, cattle, chickens, and beloved pets like dogs and cats. Zoos in Birmingham and Montgomery host giraffes, elephants, and other exotic species.
Alaska
Beyond moose, wolves, and bald eagles, many Alaskans raise sled dogs and domestic pets. Marine animals like seals and whales are common, and aquariums feature species native to cold-water regions.
Arizona
In addition to coyotes and desert reptiles, Arizona farms raise cattle and poultry. The Phoenix Zoo houses lions and giraffes, while homes across the state are filled with pets such as birds, reptiles, and dogs.
Arkansas
Rural areas support livestock including pigs, cows, and chickens, while forests offer habitat to raccoons, black bears, and armadillos. Zoos and aquariums add species from other continents.
California
California supports everything—from domestic animals and agricultural livestock to exotic animals in world-class zoos. Wildlife includes mountain lions and sea lions, while dogs and cats thrive in urban areas.
Colorado
This mountainous state is known for elk, lynxes, and wild turkeys, but also boasts a strong equestrian culture and widespread domestic pets. Zoos in Denver and Colorado Springs house hundreds of animal species.
Connecticut
Hosts forest wildlife like deer and foxes, alongside suburban pets, farm animals, and animals in educational facilities. Aquariums feature native and global marine species.
Delaware
Along with coastal birds and woodland animals, Delaware maintains small farms with pigs, goats, and poultry. Companion animals are found in most homes.
Florida
Alligators and panthers roam the wild, but Florida also has a dense population of dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets. Marine life such as dolphins and manatees thrive along the coasts.
Georgia
Georgia is rich in reptiles, birds, and bears in the wild. Its farms raise cows, pigs, and poultry, and it’s one of the top states for pet ownership.
Hawaii
Hawaii’s native nēnē goose and sea turtles coexist with pets, farm animals, and zoo species. Many animals in the islands were introduced, including livestock and cats.
Idaho
Home to cougars, moose, and eagles, Idaho also supports a large number of ranch animals like sheep and cattle. Domestic animals are cherished in both urban and rural homes.
Illinois
Beavers and deer live in the wild, while farms raise livestock. Households maintain pets, and zoos in Chicago provide homes for global animal ambassadors.
Indiana
Indiana is home to wildlife like coyotes and eagles, but its agricultural focus brings in cows, pigs, and chickens. Domestic pets are found in nearly every household.
Iowa
A center for American agriculture, Iowa features cows, pigs, sheep, and chickens in abundance. Wildlife includes pheasants and otters, while cats and dogs are popular pets.
Kansas
Known for wild bison and prairie dogs, Kansas also supports extensive animal farming and a strong culture of pet ownership in towns and cities.
Kentucky
Wild black bears roam the forests, but Kentucky’s true pride lies in horses. It’s the horse capital of the world and also home to traditional pets and livestock.
Louisiana
Beyond its swamp wildlife, Louisiana includes farm-raised animals and city-dwelling pets. Aquariums and zoos house rare species from across the globe.
Maine
While moose and puffins define Maine’s wilderness, farms raise dairy cows and goats. Dogs, especially working breeds, are common companions in rural areas.
Maryland
Wildlife thrives in marshes and woodlands, while suburban areas support cats, dogs, and birds. Aquariums and pet stores feature fish, reptiles, and small mammals.
Massachusetts
Home to whales offshore and coyotes inland, Massachusetts also supports pets, farm animals, and zoo inhabitants including primates and big cats.
Michigan
From wolves in the Upper Peninsula to pet-friendly cities, Michigan also supports livestock, fish farms, and bird sanctuaries.
Minnesota
Wildlife like moose and lynx roam freely, but farms raise dairy cattle and poultry. Pet shelters are common, and zoos offer animal education.
Mississippi
Forests house deer and snakes, while farmlands raise chickens, goats, and cows. Pets are part of everyday life, especially in rural households.
Missouri
Mountain lions and wild turkeys are native, while farms support pigs, cattle, and horses. St. Louis and Kansas City feature respected zoos.
Montana
Bison and grizzlies roam wild, but ranching is a way of life—cattle, sheep, and horses are everywhere. Pets enjoy wide open spaces.
Nebraska
From antelope and deer to chickens and cattle, Nebraska blends wildlife with farming culture and a high rate of pet adoption.
Nevada
Home to desert creatures like bighorn sheep and coyotes, Nevada also raises livestock and has many households with cats, dogs, and exotic pets.
New Hampshire
Bears and moose roam the wild, while small farms raise sheep and goats. Households frequently have pets, including reptiles and fish.
New Jersey
Suburban neighborhoods support dogs, cats, and small pets. Wildlife includes foxes and birds, while local farms raise poultry and dairy animals.
New Mexico
Home to cougars and roadrunners, New Mexico also has cattle ranches and a strong presence of household pets, including exotic reptiles.
New York
Wildlife includes bears and bobcats, but New York is also home to millions of dogs, cats, and small mammals. Farms and zoos contribute to animal diversity.
North Carolina
Wild horses roam coastal islands, black bears inhabit forests, and dogs and cats fill homes across the state. Poultry farms are widespread.
North Dakota
Bison and prairie dogs inhabit wild areas. Livestock farming is common, and pets are integral in rural homes and towns.
Ohio
A mix of wildlife, pets, and farm animals, Ohio supports deer, coyotes, dairy cows, and common house pets in nearly every community.
Oklahoma
From bobcats to armadillos in the wild, Oklahoma also has extensive cattle farming and a large pet-owning population.
Oregon
Wild cougars and sea lions are native, while farms raise alpacas and sheep. Portland is known for its pet-friendly culture.
Pennsylvania
Deer, turkeys, and snakes coexist with dairy cattle, goats, and millions of household pets. Animal sanctuaries are prevalent.
Rhode Island
Its small size doesn’t limit its animal life. Coastal birds, farm animals, and house pets all find a place here.
South Carolina
From alligators in the wetlands to cats in living rooms and cows on farmland, this state embraces animal diversity.
South Dakota
Buffalo roam the plains, and ranches raise cattle and horses. Households often include dogs, cats, and small animals.
Tennessee
Smoky Mountain wildlife meets equestrian culture, cattle farming, and a pet-loving population.
Texas
From longhorns and armadillos to zoo animals and exotic pets, Texas has it all—pets, livestock, wildlife, and world-class animal facilities.
Utah
Mountain goats, coyotes, and wild horses roam natural parks. Farms raise livestock, and pets are part of nearly every household.
Vermont
Famous for moose and loons, Vermont also raises dairy cows and supports one of the highest pet ownership rates per capita.
Virginia
Wildlife and household animals flourish together, from bears and deer to dogs, poultry, and cattle.
Washington
Whales and bald eagles inhabit wild spaces, while pets and farm animals abound. The state is also home to aquariums and wildlife rehab centers.
West Virginia
Known for deer, turkeys, and bobcats, but also strong in equestrian and poultry farming. Pets are widespread in rural communities.
Wisconsin
From wolves and bears to dairy cows and domestic pets, Wisconsin blends wild nature with agricultural richness.
Wyoming
Home to Yellowstone’s wild wonders, Wyoming also supports horses, cattle, and a deep appreciation for animal welfare and conservation.
Conclusion
Animals—whether they’re wild, domesticated, or exotic—can be found in every nook and cranny of the United States. From the warmth of our homes and the hustle of farms to the wild expanses of nature and cutting-edge zoos, the bond between Americans and animals is both deep and diverse. Whether you’re a passionate animal enthusiast, a dedicated farmer, or an adventurous explorer, every state in the U.S. presents a unique chance to engage with the incredible variety of species that inhabit our land.
