Beyond Squirrels: A Guide to Central Park’s Lesser-Known Wildlife
Central Park is famous for its playful squirrels and dabbling ducks, but these 843 acres are home to a diverse array of wildlife beyond the usual suspects. Discover some of Central Park’s lesser-known residents and the best spots to catch a glimpse of them.
Always appreciate wildlife from a distance. Avoid approaching, feeding, or disturbing animals with loud noises.
Wildlife Guide
The ducks pictured here are not wild; they are a domestic breed known as Khaki Campbells. With their short wings and large bodies, they cannot fly and do not have the survival skills of wild ducks. This pair was eventually rescued from Central Park's Pond and brought to an animal sanctuary that could provide them with the proper care. However, most abandoned animals in the Park are not so lucky.
You might not expect to see some of the animals listed above in Central Park—but they absolutely belong here. However, that doesn’t mean every animal belongs in the Park.
People often mistakenly release domestic animals into urban greenspaces. This most frequently happens to domestic ducks, who cannot fly. Also, unlike their wild counterparts, they don’t have the natural instincts to forage for food or defend themselves from predators. When abandoned in City parks, most don’t survive more than 24 hours. Those who do will die from lack of open water and food come winter.
Domestic rabbits and guinea pigs are also frequently abandoned in parks. If you see an animal in the Park that appears out of place, contact an Urban Park Ranger (call 311) or a licensed rehabilitator who can help get the animal to safety.