If You Spot Any of These Animals in Minnesota, Report it Immediately
On a normal day, it's likely that most Minnesotans will see a handful of squirrels and rabbits. I know I see at least that many just in my backyard, but we also have water and birdseed out, so that makes sense.
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The Most Common Wild Animals in Minnesota
Both animals are an incredibly common sight in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
According to Britannica, the most common animals that can be found all across Minnesota are "deer, foxes, raccoons, porcupines, minks, weasels, skunks, muskrats, woodchucks, and squirrels." I'm surprised they didn't put rabbits on there but I forgive them.
However, there are also tons of other animals that roam our state that are much less common. Some of those animals must be reported to the Minnesota DNR if they're seen.
Animals That You Should Report to the Minnesota DNR Immediately
A portion of the Minnesota DNR is the Minnesota Biological Survey (MBS). The MBS "systematically collects, interprets, monitors and delivers data on plant and animal distribution as well as the ecology of native plant communities and functional landscapes."
And sometimes, the MBS needs our help!
There are particular animals in Minnesota that the MBS has requested we submit sightings for if we are to ever come across them.
The reason for requesting these reports is not because the animals are causing problems, it's because the MBS wants to learn "more about their distribution and conservation needs in Minnesota."
So with that being said, if you come across any of the following animals, the Minnesota DNR's MBS would love to know:
Other animals they'd like people to report are the North American Racer snake, Western Hog-nosed Snake, Smooth Greensnake, Ratsnake, Gophersnake (Bullsnake), and Mudpuppy.
How to Report a Sighting to the Minnesota DNR
If you come across any of these animals, you can report it to the Minnesota DNR's MBS by email (mcbs.e-report@state.mn.us) or phone (1-888-345-1730).
When you report an animal, they want to know who you are, what the animal was, the date you saw it, the location you were at, and a brief description of the sighting. They would obviously also love a picture if possible.
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Gallery Credit: Carly Ross