Animal Encounters: What You’ll See At Acadia National Park

Who is this for?

Anyone visiting Maine who is looking to see what type of wildlife lives there, specifically in Acadia National Park.


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If you’ve ever vacationed in Maine, chances are you’ve heard about Acadia National Park. This beautiful area has rocky shorelines, granite peaks, and views of the ocean that’ll make your friends jealous. What truly brings this park to life, however, is its wildlife. A visit to Acadia is as much about the animals as it is about the landscape itself! 


With Atlantic Eyrie Lodge just minutes away from the park entrance, you have the perfect base for your next trip to Maine. So join us as we take a deeper look into the wildlife in Maine, and what critters you can expect to see when you visit Acadia National Park.

MAMMALS OF THE forests AND FIELDS


Acadia’s diverse landscape—including forests, meadows, and marshes—makes it a great spot to see a bunch of furry friends. On any given day, you might just see:


  • White-tailed deer graze along the trails, roaming through the various clearings.
  • Red foxes pop their heads out during early morning hours.
  • Snowshoe hares are hard to see, as they blend into the undergrowth, so keep your eyes peeled!
  • Red squirrels collect food, chattering amongst themselves from the treetops. 


If you veer from the path into a more remote area, you might find yourself face-to-face with Maine’s state animal: a moose. Although sightings are rare, moose, along with black bears, have been seen in the park.



a bird for every birder


The birds in Maine are a sight to see, as the state is one of the most populated birding locations in the Northeast. Acadia specifically has over 300 species, making the park a magnet for birdwatchers during the migration seasons.


You’ll be pleased to see:


  • Peregrine falcons: Once nearly extinct, watch as the peregrine falcon dives through the trees, with their sharp cries being heard from miles away.
  • Bald eagles and ospreys: Soaring above lakes, these birds are often in the search of fish.
  • Warblers, thrushes, and woodpeckers: The forests, especially from April through September, are filled with the songs of these birds.


Bring your binoculars, because several of these birds fly high in the sky, often hanging out in treetops. Park rangers occasionally lead bird walks during the warmer months for those hankering to learn more about these creatures.


life under the waters


Maine’s coastline isn’t just visually dramatic, it’s also filled with a variety of aquatic friends. Especially near tidepools, you’ll discover:


  • Starfish, anemones, sea urchins, and tiny crabs clinging to rocks.
  • Harbor seals hanging out lazily along the shores.
  • Dolphins and whales can also be spotted, often from boat tours.


There are quite a few local companies that offer cruises and boat tours near Acadia National Park, where you can get close to seals, dolphins, and various seabirds. Just prepare yourself for some cheesy tour guide stories along the way.

Two dragonflies are sitting on a leaf in a pond.

creepy crawlies

The warm wetlands often attract a bunch of reptiles and amphibians. Garter and milk snakes have been known to slither through sunny spots, with a variety of frogs and salamanders inhabiting the rocks along the shore. It’s pretty common to hear a chorus of frogs near the ponds, especially after a rainstorm. 


Butterflies and dragonflies flutter around the fields, and during the spring and summer, they bring a rather colorful display to the area. A word of caution, the wooded areas of Acadia National Park can often have deer ticks, so make sure to bring insect repellent and conduct regular tick checks.


unique guided experiences


We briefly covered this subject before, but it’s important enough that we thought we oughta mention it again: guided wildlife tours. During the summer season, park rangers often host educational programs showcasing the Acadia National Park wildlife, with guided walks that specifically focus on the area’s ecosystems. It’s perfect for anyone looking to gain more insight on how Acadia’s diverse landscape supports such a variety of life.

a base for your journey: atlantic eyrie lodge


After a day out hearing the chirps, croaks, bellows, and screeches, it’s nice to have a quiet place to recharge. Atlantic Eyrie Lodge is right next door in Bar Harbor, with suites featuring beautiful ocean views. There’s plenty to explore, so you’ll have no trouble keeping your days full. Top it all off with our complimentary breakfast, and you’ve got yourself a true vacation.


So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Maine, and book your stay at Atlantic Eyrie Lodge—just minutes from Acadia, and exactly where you want to be.

A bedroom with a bed and a blue couch