Fauna of Connecticut facts for kids

The fauna of Connecticut refers to all the different kinds of animals that live in the state of Connecticut. Connecticut is home to many amazing creatures, from tiny insects to large whales.

The American robin is Connecticut's state bird.

Connecticut has several official state animals and creatures:

• The state bird is the American robin.
• The state insect is the European mantis.
• The state animal is the sperm whale.
• The state shellfish is the eastern oyster.
• The state fish is the American shad.
• The state fossil is the Eubrontes giganteus, which is a type of dinosaur footprint.

Amazing Animal Variety

Having many different types of animals in one place is called biodiversity. Connecticut has a rich variety of animal life. However, some of these animals need our help.

As of 2004, there were 256 species in Connecticut listed as endangered, threatened, or of special concern. This means their populations are shrinking, and they might be at risk of disappearing. These include:

• 11 types of mammals
• 50 types of birds
• 11 types of reptiles
• 7 types of amphibians
• 7 types of fish
• 170 types of invertebrates (animals without backbones, like insects and worms)

Dinosaurs and Ancient Animals

An artist's idea of what a Dilophosaurus wetherelli might have looked like.

Connecticut has a fascinating history of ancient life, especially dinosaurs! You can learn more about these prehistoric times at places like the Peabody Museum of Natural History and Dinosaur State Park.

Long, long ago, different kinds of dinosaurs roamed what is now Connecticut. Some of the extinct species that once lived here include:

• Coelophysis
• Dilophosaurus
• Eubrontes (which are actually the fossilized footprints of a large, meat-eating dinosaur)

Tiny Creatures of Connecticut

Connecticut is home to many smaller creatures, too. These animals might not be as famous as dinosaurs or whales, but they play a very important role in the environment.

Worms and Segmented Animals

This group includes different kinds of worms, known as annelids. Many of these live in the soil or water. They help keep the environment healthy by breaking down dead plants and animals.

Insects and Other Arthropods

Arthropods are animals with exoskeletons (hard outer shells) and jointed legs. This group includes insects, spiders, and crustaceans. In Connecticut, you can find various arthropods like tiny crustaceans such as Gammarus and Neomysis americana.

Shellfish and Snails

Mollusks are soft-bodied animals, often protected by a shell. In Connecticut, you can find many types of mollusks, especially in coastal areas. These include different kinds of snails and clams, like the Mya arenaria (soft-shell clam) and the eastern oyster.

Images for kids

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  Artist's depiction of a Dilophosaurus wetherelli