Maryland
Chesapeake waterfowl tradition, exotic Sika deer marsh hunting on the Eastern Shore, and upland covers.
Native Species in Maryland
Official Regulatory Authority
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service (MDNR)
Sika Deer
Miniature Asian elk introduced in 1916 that now thrive wild in the marshlands, loblolly pine stands, and tidal phragmites of Dorchester, Somerset, and Worcester counties. Mature stags weigh 70 to 90 lbs with compact antlers, emitting an iconic high-pitched bugle during the autumn rut.
White-Tailed Deer
Abundant across all regions, from the agricultural fields of the Eastern Shore to the mountain timber of western Maryland. Eastern Shore agricultural nutrition produces world-class trophy whitetails.
American Black Bear
Inhabits the high hardwood forests and ridges of Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick counties. Highly successful management allows a closely monitored annual lottery hunt.
Eastern Wild Turkey
Healthy turkey populations occur statewide, from western mountain national and state forests to southern Maryland and Eastern Shore farm woodlots.
Eastern Gray & Fox Squirrel
Gray squirrels are abundant in hardwood timber statewide, while the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel has made a successful recovery on the Eastern Shore.
Bobcat
Secretive native predator primarily found in the rugged mountains and rocky hollows of western Maryland, hunting rodents and lagomorphs.
Red & Gray Fox
Red foxes thrive in open agricultural fields and hedgerows, while gray foxes frequent dense brush and tidal marsh edges.
Eastern Cottontail
Common small game mammal found in overgrown fencerows, briar thickets, and field edges throughout Maryland.