An Animal Encounter Survival Guide for the Maine Woods

What these animals look like and what to do if approached by one

The state of Maine is over 90% woods, with trails made all throughout them. It is one of the most heavily wooded states in the country and because of that, it’s home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the country. 

Across the state of Maine there are many animals that may come across your way. Whether you’re on the Appalachian Trail, or walking the dog in your backyard woods, it’s helpful to know what to do when you come across a wild animal. We’ve gone through the trouble of identifying and sizing some of these animals up for you. 

Moose

Moose in a pond on Maine

Bull moose in Maine (source)

Weight: as much as 1000 pounds

Height: 6 ft+ at the shoulder

Length: 9 ft average

Temper: The highest chance of any animal in Maine to attack. They know they’re bigger than you.

If Encountered: Hopefully you’re not too close, if you were you likely just found out how fast they can be and how large their antlers really are. 

Whitetail Deer

Whitetail buck in Maine (source)

Weight: up to 400 pounds (largest in the country)

Height: over 3 ft at the shoulder

Length: about 5-6 ft

Temper: nervous and shy

If Encountered: It will likely infamously stomp at you but call their bluff and take one step and they run like, well, deer.

Black Bear

Maine black bear (source)

Weight: commonly 350 pounds but can be up to 600 pounds

Height: A little over 3 ft

Length: up to 3.5ft

Temper: Curious. They can often get used to human presence, but the last thing they want to do is attack. Just don’t corner it. 

If Encountered: Don’t climb a tree.

Canadian Lynx

Two lynx caught on a dash cam fighting one another

Canadian lynx fighting on a street in Maine (source)

Weight: up to 30 pounds

Height: 3 ft

Length: 3.5 ft

Temper: sweet and cheerful

If Encountered: You’re probably fine, the cuddlebuddies of the forest. Just don’t act like a threat, or corner it, or approach too fast, or trigger it in any way and you’ll be okay. A smack by those big mits will likely hurt.

Bobcat

Bobcat caught on camera walking next to someone's house in Maine

Bobcat in someone’s yard in Maine (source)

Weight: up to 30 pounds

Height: 2 ft

Length: as long as 4 ft

Temper: shy and evasive

If Encountered: The master of not being seen, so you probably don’t have to worry about this one. Your cat has more to be wary about.

Coyote

Huge coyote in the woods of Maine. Facial profile more resemblance of a wolf.

Huge Maine coyote (source)

Weight: up to 50 pounds (some of the largest in the country)

Height: 2 ft at the shoulder

Length: 4-5 ft

Temper: They can be vocal towards humans during denning (spring-summer) but want to avoid humans at all costs

If Encountered: In Maine, they have been known to be seen at all hours of the day all year round. They will usually run away from you but if they vocally warn you to stay away, walk away from the sound. You’ll know it’s a coyote even if you can’t see it. It’s not your average bark.

Gray Squirrel

Fat gray squirrel sitting on a rock in Maine

Well fed gray squirrel in Maine (source)

Weight: 1-1.5 pounds

Height: 5 inches on all fours

Length: 20 in from nose to tail

Temper: It will be aggressive if you try to catch it, if you can. So just don’t do that.

If Encountered: Your dog will know what to do.

Mountain Lion

Mountain lion caught on a game camera in Maine. Thought to be extinct in the wild.

Mountain lion (possibly) caught on camera in Maine (source). Definitely a mountain lion.

Weight: up to 220 pounds

Height: 3 ft at the shoulder

Length: up to 8 ft

Temper: Have you ever seen that video of the runner encountering one on the trail? They’ve also been known to attack the little ones. It’s a big cat. 

If Encountered: You won't, they're extinct in Maine. Maybe.