20 Most Endangered Animals in Massachusetts

By raising awareness about these species and working to protect their habitats, we can help ensure that they remain a part of our state’s ecosystem for years to come.

These elusive creatures can swim through water and capture prey underwater, thanks to dense fur that traps air bubbles and reduces drag. Water pollution and habitat destruction have severely impacted their population.

#1. Water Shrew

Reasons for their decline include habitat loss and vehicle collisions. The Vesper Sparrow is particularly vulnerable to habitat loss because it nests on the ground and forages for food in open areas.

#4. Vesper Sparrow

This warbler relies on young forest growth for its nesting areas, but as humans continue to develop and clear out old-growth forests, suitable habitats for this bird become scarcer.

#5. Golden-Winged Warbler

Humans previously hunted these massive creatures extensively for their blubber. This is no longer allowed but fishermen need to  adjust their equipment to reduce the likelihood of entanglement, and boaters must  adhere to speed limits in whale habitats.

#6. North Atlantic Right Whale

#11. Atlantic Hawksbill Sea Turtle

The Atlantic Hawksbill Sea Turtle is currently listed as an endangered species. Unfortunately, they have been historically hunted for their beautiful shells.

This turtle is found in estuary habitats and is listed as endangered in the state due to habitat loss and commercial harvesting for food.

#12. Northern Diamond-backed Terrapin

This medium-sized turtle lives in freshwater ponds and marshes throughout eastern and central Massachusetts. They’re threatened by habitat loss and illegal collection for the pet trade.

#14. Northern Red-bellied Cooter

The Peregrine Falcon is a fast-flying bird that can reach up to 200 miles per hour. This flying creature had its habitat threatened by DDT.

#16. Peregrine Falcon

This enormous fish can grow up to 14 feet in length. Unfortunately, these majestic creatures are critically endangered due to overfishing and habitat loss.

#18. Atlantic Sturgeon

These turtles travel thousands of miles from their nesting beaches in Florida and the Caribbean to feed in our local waters. This turtle is an endangered species that faces threats from hunting, fishing bycatch, and loss of nesting habitats.

#20. Green Sea Turtle

To discover more Endangered Animals, read on!

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