Alabama is a biological hotspot, boasting more native species than any other state east of the Mississippi River. This extraordinary variety stems from its position across multiple geographical zones, creating a mosaic of habitats. The landscape transitions dramatically from the Appalachian foothills to the flat expanse of the coastal plains. This diverse topography, combined with a supportive climate and abundant water resources, results in one of the most complex ecosystems on the continent.
Mammals of Forest and Field
The white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is the most commonly seen large mammal across Alabama, thriving in habitats from dense forests to suburban edges. This ungulate is the primary large game animal, managed statewide through hunting regulations. The Eastern black bear (Ursus americanus), the state’s only bear species, is more elusive. Its populations are concentrated in two main areas: the remote forests of the northeast and the Mobile River Delta and coastal areas in the south.
Predatory mammals maintain a strong presence in the state’s woodlands and open fields. The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is a compact feline predator that primarily hunts rabbits and rodents in brushy areas and forests. The coyote (Canis latrans), an adaptable canine, has successfully colonized nearly every county. It is a significant predator of smaller wildlife and an opportunistic scavenger, thriving even in proximity to human development.
Smaller mammals are a fixture in most local ecosystems. These include the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), North America’s only native marsupial, known for nocturnal scavenging. The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is common, particularly in the southern and central regions, easily identifiable by its bony shell as it forages for insects. Various species of squirrels, such as the Eastern gray squirrel and the larger Fox squirrel, are active throughout the day, dispersing seeds and influencing forest regeneration.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Alabama is home to a significant number of reptile species, including six that are venomous. Five are pit vipers, characterized by heat-sensing facial pits. These include the widespread Eastern copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix), often encountered in wooded suburban areas, and the cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), typically found near aquatic habitats such as swamps and streams.
The other pit vipers are rattlesnakes, including the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus), which is becoming rare due to habitat loss, and the pygmy rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius). The timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus), also known as the canebrake, is found in forested uplands. The sixth venomous species is the Eastern coral snake (Micrurus fulvius), distinct from pit vipers with its black snout and rings of red, yellow, and black.
The American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is the largest reptile in the state. Once endangered, its population has rebounded and is now found statewide, with highest densities in the wetland systems of southern Alabama. The state’s aquatic ecosystems are also home to numerous turtle species, including the Alabama red-bellied turtle (Pseudemys alabamensis). This species is the state reptile and prefers the brackish waters of the Mobile Bay Delta.
Avian Life and Waterfowl
Alabama’s position along major migratory routes makes it a haven for over 425 recorded bird species. The state bird, the Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus), also known as the “Yellowhammer,” is a common woodpecker that forages for ants on the ground. The state plays an important role as a stopover for Neotropical songbirds, with coastal areas like Dauphin Island being a primary landfall site for migrants crossing the Gulf of Mexico in the spring.
Raptors are common, including the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), which has established breeding populations around major reservoirs and river systems. Owls like the Barred Owl and hawks such as the Red-tailed Hawk help regulate rodent populations. The extensive network of rivers and lakes attracts waterfowl, including the Wood Duck (Aix sponsa) and the Hooded Merganser, particularly during the winter. Wading birds, such as the Great Blue Heron, are observed along the water’s edge hunting fish and amphibians.
Aquatic and Coastal Species
Alabama’s freshwater systems contain an unparalleled level of biodiversity, ranking first in the United States for species of freshwater fish, mussels, and crayfish. Over 132,000 miles of streams and rivers crisscross the state, supporting a massive array of aquatic life. Popular game fish like largemouth bass and various catfish species are abundant in the large reservoirs and riverine habitats. This diversity is a product of the state’s numerous river basins and ancient, stable geology.
Moving south, the Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico coastline support a distinct community of marine species. The brackish estuaries serve as nurseries for commercially important species, including blue crabs and shrimp. Offshore, common bottlenose dolphins are often seen swimming just beyond the surf line. The deeper coastal waters are habitat for several shark species, which help maintain the health of the marine ecosystem.