Animals

A small group of young red foxes are curious about their surroundings.
Red fox kits explore the grassy area around their den in First State NHP.

National Geographic Photo.

First State NHP staff, volunteers, and local partner organizations have recorded 178 species within the park, and the majority of these species are birds. Park staff are dedicated to continuing to inventory the wildlife found within the park. It is unclear just how many species live here, but we want to find out! Species are being documented annually to better understand those species, and to inform management. The National Park Service recognizes the park’s significant natural resources and has invested in scientific research to document and learn more about the wildlife in the park.

Where can I see wildlife?
Animals of all kinds can be seen throughout the park, but different habitats support different species. Mammals can be seen scurrying through the woodlands and fields, amphibians can be found near wetlands, reptiles near rock structures, and birds soaring through the sky and tree canopy.

Understanding the behavior and the habitat of an animal you’re interested in will help to find them within the park. Early morning and evening hours are when animals tend to feed and are more easily seen. But remember, the numbers and variety of animals you see are largely a matter of luck and coincidence. Bring some binoculars to be able to enjoy animals from a safe distance, and have a wonderful time exploring! As far as seeing a variety of animals - we hope you get lucky; may the odds be ever in your favor; may the force be with you ... you get the drift!

 
 
A small toad, roughly the size of a quarter, with bumps and spots, grips onto blades of dewy grass.
Amphibians

Learn about the amphibians and reptiles that have been observed in the park.

A young owl sits in the grass.
Birds

The diversity and abundance of birds in the Brandywine Valley unit of the park draws nature lovers, photographers, and bird enthusiasts.

A Praying mantis uses the green of the grass to camouflage its green body, and waits for prey.
Invertebrates

Due to the diversity of habitats in the park, invertebrates can be found everywhere - you may just have to look a little closer!

The right front foot of a racoon print is captured in the mud, near the creek.
Mammals

Whether big or small, on the land or in the sky, mammals can be found throughout First State NHP.

Last updated: May 13, 2021

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

First State National Historical Park
10 Market Street

New Castle, DE 19720

Phone:

302-317-3854
To speak to a park ranger, call the park Welcome Center (302-317-3854) and someone will return your call as soon as possible. For a more immediate response, please email the park at firststate@nps.gov.

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