Mammals
The mammals native to the eastern shore, particularly the Wicomico River watershed, are different from the mammals found in the rest of Maryland. Many mammals that used to live here no longer do as a result of human impacts and environmental changes. These changes have also introduced new species. The mammals of the Wicomico River are unique to this area.
Native Mammals
Non-native Mammals
Many species have been introduced to the Wicomico River watershed. Although most have not had devastating effects, they still have an impact on the local environment. The introduced mammals include rodents such as black and norway rats, the common house mouse, nutria, and sika deer.
Nutria Nutria is an invasive species that has had devastating impacts on marshes in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including the Wicomico River. In 2000, a nutria eradication and marsh restoration project began, dramatically helping ecosystems. Learn more about Nutria here: Nutria Eradication |
Sika Deer
This species of deer has been introduced from Japan. They are smaller than White-tailed Deer and are very popular among hunters. They have been seen here in Wicomico as their species is expanding their range throughout the lower shore. |
Feral Cats
You may see a lot of cats running around your neighborhood or the city. These cats have been released from domestic houses and are a growing problem for our area. They breed rapidly which is a problem for native species that they eat such as birds, small reptiles and even small mammals. To help control this growing problem, stray cats can be brought to the Wicomico Humane Society. To help prevent this problem, cat owners should have their cats spayed and prevent their cats from roaming outside.
You may see a lot of cats running around your neighborhood or the city. These cats have been released from domestic houses and are a growing problem for our area. They breed rapidly which is a problem for native species that they eat such as birds, small reptiles and even small mammals. To help control this growing problem, stray cats can be brought to the Wicomico Humane Society. To help prevent this problem, cat owners should have their cats spayed and prevent their cats from roaming outside.
Extirpated Species
Extirpated species are species that used to live in the area but can no longer be found there. Black bears and red wolves are two of the most commonly known native species that are no longer found in this area. Cougars and gray wolves have been extirpated from the area and bobcats, minks, and weasels are believed to be as well.
Black Bear
Black Bears used to roam Delmarva where there used to be vast forests and abundant food sources. Black Bears were hunted and also extirpated so that more homes could be developed. |
Red Wolf Red Wolves used to roam here and hunt young deer, rabbits, and other small mammals. The Salisbury Zoo is part of the AZA (The Association of Zoo and Aquariums) where they are breeding them in captivity in order to sustain a population. |
Learn more about the Chesapeake's mammals, including their current habitats, diets, and life cycles by clicking on the link below.
To get a printable version of Peterson's Field Guide of animal tracks, click on the link below.