The United States is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including some of the largest and most impressive animals on the planet. From the vast wilderness of Alaska to the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest and the expansive plains of the Midwest, the country provides habitats for many massive creatures. Here’s a look at 27 of the largest animals that can be found across the United States.
1. American Bison
The American Bison is the largest land mammal in North America. These majestic animals can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand about 6 feet tall at the shoulder. They are commonly found in national parks such as Yellowstone.
2. Grizzly Bear
Grizzly bears are powerful predators found primarily in the northwestern United States and Alaska. Adult males can weigh between 400 to 800 pounds and stand up to 8 feet tall when on their hind legs.
3. Moose
Moose are the largest members of the deer family. They can weigh as much as 1,800 pounds and stand over 6 feet tall at the shoulder. Moose are most commonly found in the northern states and Alaska.
4. Elk
Elk are one of the largest species of deer. Males, or bulls, can weigh up to 1,100 pounds and stand 5 feet tall at the shoulder. They are found in the Rocky Mountain region and other western states.
5. Polar Bear
Polar bears are the largest bear species and are found in Alaska. Males can weigh between 900 and 1,600 pounds and stand up to 10 feet tall on their hind legs.
6. Gray Whale
Gray whales migrate along the West Coast of the United States. These marine giants can reach lengths of up to 49 feet and weigh up to 90,000 pounds.
7. Humpback Whale
Humpback whales are another massive marine mammal found along both the East and West Coasts. They can grow up to 60 feet long and weigh around 40 tons.
8. American Alligator
The American alligator is the largest reptile in the United States. These formidable creatures can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh over 1,000 pounds, primarily found in the southeastern states.
9. Cougar (Mountain Lion)
Cougars are large predators that inhabit various regions across the United States. Adult males can weigh up to 220 pounds and measure about 8 feet from nose to tail.
10. Bald Eagle
The bald eagle, America’s national bird, is one of the largest birds of prey. With a wingspan of up to 8 feet, these majestic birds are primarily found near large bodies of open water.
11. Kodiak Bear
Kodiak bears are a subspecies of brown bears found in Alaska. They can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and stand over 10 feet tall on their hind legs.
12. American Black Bear
Black bears are widespread across the United States. While typically smaller than grizzlies, large males can weigh up to 600 pounds.
13. North Atlantic Right Whale
One of the largest whales in existence, the North Atlantic right whale, can grow up to 52 feet long and weigh up to 70 tons. They are found along the eastern seaboard.
14. California Sea Lion
California sea lions are common along the Pacific Coast. Males can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and measure about 8 feet in length.
15. Bighorn Sheep
Bighorn sheep are known for their impressive curved horns. Adult males, called rams, can weigh up to 300 pounds and are found in mountainous regions of the western United States.
16. Caribou
Caribou, also known as reindeer, are large members of the deer family found in Alaska. They can weigh up to 700 pounds and stand about 5 feet tall at the shoulder.
17. Great White Shark
Great white sharks are formidable marine predators found off the coasts of California and the northeastern United States. They can grow up to 20 feet long and weigh over 5,000 pounds.
18. Whale Shark
The whale shark, the largest fish in the world, can occasionally be spotted in the Gulf of Mexico. These gentle giants can grow up to 40 feet long and weigh around 20 tons.
19. American Crocodile
American crocodiles are found in southern Florida. They can grow up to 16 feet long and weigh up to 1,000 pounds.
20. Wolf
21. Manatee
Manatees, also known as sea cows, are found in the coastal waters of Florida. These gentle giants can weigh up to 1,200 pounds and measure around 10 feet in length.
As a little kid, I fell in love with nature, wildlife, and animals. Living in the USA, South Africa, Italy, China and Germany gave me the opportunity to discover the world's Wildlife. My favorite animals are Mountain Gorillas, Siberian Tigers, and Great White Sharks.
I'm a certified PADI Open Water Diver, went to Everest Base Camp and Trekked Gorillas in Uganda. I hold a Master of Science in Economics and Finance.
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