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Animals, Plants, Aquatic Life

Millions of New Yorkers know DEC as the caretaker of state lands and provider of licenses and facilities for outdoor activities. But did you know that New York's outstanding recreational opportunities also rely on DEC for conserving crucial habitats, and for managing and protecting wild animals and plants?

Information About Species

Links on this page access summaries about broad categories of animals and plants, which in turn link to details about the life patterns and habitats of some popular and interesting species. Most of the information presented here has been developed by DEC scientists in researching and managing natural resources.

Humans and Wild Species

Other links on this page will help you to support the animals and plants that share your habitat, to understand endangered species, to manage conflicts with wildlife, and to deal with abandoned wildlife and invasive species.

DEC presents this information because many more New Yorkers are encountering wild species than ever before. As people move into new areas, some animals or plants become endangered because there is no longer enough habitat for them. Other species adapt to the new conditions, adding interest to the local environment, but sometimes creating problems for their human neighbors.

More about Animals, Plants, Aquatic Life:

  • Mammals - New York State is home to a variety of wildlife, including many species of mammals. On this page you will find links with information relating to specific species information, management, history, and restoration of mammals in New York State.
  • Birds - New York State is home to a variety of bird species. Information about DEC's bird conservation programs are provided on these pages.
  • Amphibians & Reptiles - New York State is home to a variety of amphibians and reptiles (herpetofauna). On this page you will find links to descriptions, life history, distribution and habitat, status, management and research needs of 13 key amphibian and reptile species.
  • Nuisance & Invasive Species - Help with wildlife damage and nuisance wildlife, and information about invasive species that can cause harm to the environment or to human health.
  • Species Conservation - Information about species conservation programs in New York, including the Endangered Species Program, State Wildlife Grants Program, Natural Heritage Program, and the Adirondack Cooperative Loon Program.
  • Marine Life - An introduction to New York State's marine life
  • Insects & Other Species - New York State is home to a huge variety of invertebrates. Information about a variety of NYSDEC research and management programs concerning invertebrate species may be found on these pages.
  • Plants - Information relating to aquatic plant management, protected native plants of New York State, endangered plants species, and the Saratoga Tree Nursery