Fauna of Illinois facts for kids

Illinois is a state in the United States, and it's home to an amazing variety of animals! These animals, known as its fauna, include many different kinds of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. Illinois has chosen several of these animals as its official state symbols.

For example, the beautiful Northern cardinal is the state bird, known for its bright red feathers. The state insect is the amazing monarch butterfly, famous for its long migrations. The strong white-tailed deer is the state animal, often seen in forests and fields. If you like fishing, you might know the bluegill, which is the state fish. Illinois even has a state fossil, the unique tully monster, which was an ancient sea creature! The eastern tiger salamander is the state amphibian, and the colorful painted turtle is the state reptile. Finally, the state snake is the eastern milk snake.

Meet the Animals of Illinois

Illinois is a great place for wildlife! Let's explore some of the different types of animals that live here.

Mammals: Furry Friends

Mammals are animals that have fur or hair, are warm-blooded, and usually give birth to live young. Illinois has many different mammals, from tiny shrews to large deer.

Some common mammals you might see include the clever Raccoon, known for its masked face, and the playful North American river otter that loves to swim. You might also spot a speedy Eastern cottontail rabbit or a busy Eastern gray squirrel collecting nuts. Larger mammals like the white-tailed deer are also common. While rare, some larger animals like the American black bear and Cougar have occasionally been seen returning to Illinois.

Birds: Feathered Wonders

American White Pelicans on the Illinois River

Illinois is a fantastic place for birdwatching! Many birds live here all year, while others just visit during their long migrations. Birds are known for their feathers, wings, and ability to fly.

You can see many types of ducks like the Mallard and Wood duck in Illinois's wetlands and rivers. Large birds like the Great blue heron and Great egret are often found near water, looking for fish. Majestic birds of prey, such as the Bald eagle and Red-tailed hawk, soar high in the sky. Smaller, colorful birds like the Northern cardinal and various woodpeckers are common in backyards and forests.

Amphibians: Living on Land and Water

Amphibians are cool creatures that can live both in water and on land. They usually have smooth, moist skin and lay their eggs in water. Illinois has many frogs, toads, and salamanders.

Frogs and Toads

Frogs and toads are known for their jumping abilities and their unique calls, especially during spring and summer nights.

Salamanders

Salamanders look a bit like lizards but have smooth, moist skin. They often live in damp places like under logs or leaves.

Reptiles: Scaly Survivors

Reptiles are cold-blooded animals with scales. They usually lay eggs on land. Illinois is home to various turtles, lizards, and snakes.

Turtles

Turtles are easily recognized by their hard shells, which protect them from predators. You can often find them basking in the sun near ponds and rivers.

Lizards

Lizards in Illinois are usually small and quick. They love sunny spots and can often be seen darting through grass or on rocks.

Snakes

Illinois has many different types of snakes, most of which are harmless. They play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling pests. It's always best to observe snakes from a distance.

Fish: Underwater Dwellers

Illinois has many rivers, lakes, and streams, making it a great home for a wide variety of fish. Fish are aquatic animals that breathe using gills.

Some of the most common fish include the Bluegill, which is the state fish, and various types of catfish like the Channel catfish. You can also find popular sport fish such as Largemouth bass and Northern pike.