Maryland’s largest mammal is the black bear. University of Maryland Extension Fact Sheet 608 states, “The Black Bear (Ursus americanus) is the largest mammal in Maryland.” Adults are typically 50–85 inches long and weigh 140–400 pounds; rare individuals exceed 600 pounds.
There is no authoritative, current ranking of the nine largest wild animals in Maryland across every animal group. The sources available do not use one consistent measurement method, and several large animals are introduced, feral, seasonal, captive, or extirpated. The guide below therefore separates confirmed Maryland wildlife from historical animals and identifies the unresolved ninth entry rather than presenting a misleading numerical ranking.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How to interpret this list
The entries are compared using adult body-mass information where a Maryland authority provides it. A maximum recorded or cited weight is not directly comparable with another species’ typical adult range, so the order is a practical guide, not a scientific top-nine ranking.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
- Status matters: native residents, introduced species, feral animals, and extirpated species are labeled separately.
- Location is not a sighting guarantee: a county with reports is not necessarily a breeding range or a public viewing site.
- Dates matter: population figures are identified by the year and source that produced them.
- Access changes: check the current Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or park-authority page before traveling.
At a glance
| Animal | Maryland status | Reference size | Where the evidence places it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black bear | Native, breeding population | 50–85 inches; 140–400 pounds; rare individuals over 600 pounds (University of Maryland Extension, 2004). Maryland Manual entry gives up to 660 pounds. | Breeding population in Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick counties |
| White-tailed deer | Native, widespread | 5.2–7.3 feet; 130–300 pounds (Maryland Manual) | Broadly distributed across Maryland |
| American beaver | Native, semi-aquatic | About 3.5 feet; 33–77 pounds (Maryland Manual) | Freshwater habitats; verify a current public site |
| Coyote | Wild canine | Generally 30–40 pounds (Maryland Manual) | Current DNR species account should be consulted for a precise location |
| Sika deer | Introduced | 50–100 pounds | Marshy areas and fields; confirm current range and access |
| Assateague ponies/feral horses | Introduced, feral | Comparable statewide measurements not stated | Managed herd location and visitor rules must be checked with the park authority |
| American elk | Extirpated from Maryland | Comparable Maryland size figure not stated | Historical or managed settings, not routine wild encounters |
| American bison | Extirpated from Maryland | Comparable Maryland size figure not stated | Historical or captive settings, not routine wild encounters |
| Ninth entry | Not established by the cited material | Not stated | No defensible species can be added without a current account confirming presence, size, and access |
1. Black bear
The black bear is the only animal in the available Maryland sources explicitly identified as the state’s largest mammal. University of Maryland Extension’s 2004 fact sheet describes adults as 50–85 inches long and 140–400 pounds, with rare individuals over 600 pounds. The Maryland Manual separately lists a black bear weighing up to 660 pounds. Those figures come from different references and should not be merged into a single “average” or treated as a modern record.
#1 Best Overall
- Dog multivitamins chewable for skin & coat : Dog multivitamin is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E,which can relieve skin allergies,dryness,itching and other problems.Multivitamin for dogs nourishes skin follicles.Long-term consumption of dog vitamins multivitamin can make dog hair stronger and smoother,and reduce coat loss.The COQ10 in dog multivitamin chewable can resist oxidation and delay cell aging.Dogs with skin injuries can eat dog vitamins and supplements to promote wound healing
- Dog multivitamin relieves joint inflammation: Dog vitamins for hip and joint can supplement high-quality MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate to promote cartilage development and repair. Long-term consumption of dog multivitamins chewable can enhance the elasticity and toughness of joint cartilage, improve joint flexibility, and move more freely. Dog multivitamin chews can reduce joint friction and relieve joint pain. Dog vitamins and supplements can prevent and improve dog joint problems
- Dog multivitamin chews are good for the gut: Vet-endorsed formula dog vitamins and supplements made from natural ingredients.Dog vitamins multivitamin chewables contain a rich blend of probiotics to support intestinal and digestive health.Dog vitamins for small dogs can regulate the balance of intestinal flora,help calcium absorption,and promote bone development.Dog multivitamins chewables improve energy metabolism,converting food into energy, making dogs more energetic in their daily activities
- Dog multivitamin chews protect overall health:Senior dog vitamins and supplements help improve blood circulation and prevent cardiovascular disease.Dog multivitamins chewable support normal liver function,promote liver detoxification,and improve negative mood.For dog with heart problems and older dog,taking dog vitamins and supplements in moderation is an auxiliary health care measure.Dog vitamins multivitamin helps enhance white blood cell activity,improve immunity,prevent infection and disease
- Dog multivitamins chewable promote brain development: The DHA in krill oil in multivitamin for dogs is an important component of the brain and retina. Dog vitamins and supplements can improve dog cognitive ability. When training puppies to learn basic commands, puppies who are properly supplemented with dog vitamins multivitamin will behave more intelligently and improve memory.Dog supplements & vitamins can prevent and relieve eye problems such as dry eyes and tear stains, and keep eyes healthy
Maryland DNR identifies a breeding population in Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick counties. DNR’s current management page says there are more than 2,000 adult and subadult bears across those occupied counties. That is an agency estimate, not an exact census: bears have large home ranges, move seasonally, and can be seen outside the counties used for the population estimate.
Activity often increases from May through July, when young bears disperse, and again in October and November, before winter. These are agency-identified periods of increased movement, not promises that a visitor will see a bear. Use a long lens or compact binoculars, remain well away, never feed wildlife, and follow posted park guidance. A bear sighting should never become an attempt to approach, corner, or attract the animal.
2. White-tailed deer
White-tailed deer are much more widespread than black bears and are among Maryland’s most familiar large mammals. The Maryland Manual gives a reference length of 5.2–7.3 feet and a weight of 130–300 pounds. Individual size varies with sex, age, habitat, and nutrition, so the upper end should not be read as a typical adult weight.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Maryland DNR’s 2024 report estimated a pre-season population of 237,000 deer before the 2023–2024 hunting season. DNR said that estimate was approximately 5 percent above the preceding five-year average of 226,000. It is a dated management estimate, not a 2026 statewide count.
Rank #2
- 8-in-1 Formula - Zesty Paws Multifunctional Bites are functional supplement chews with premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, heart, immune, skin, liver, & gut health for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.
- Skin Health & Antioxidants – For animals with sensitive skin, this formula contains Cod Liver Fish Oil and Vitamin E to help maintain normal moisture and CoQ10 to help reduce oxidative stress.
- Hip, Joint & Performance Support - Each dog chew features OptiMSM, a premium form of MSM for muscular support, which works synergistically with the Glucosamine HCl and Chondroitin Sulfate in these chews for hip and joint support plus Cod Liver Oil and B-Complex Vitamins support normal physical performance.
- Gut Health & Probiotics - These chews also contain a six-strain Gut Health Blend (500 million cfu per chew) and a Digestive Health Blend to promote gut flora while supporting normal bowel function for dogs.
- Heart, Liver & Immune Health - Multifunctional Bites feature powerful antioxidants, premium CoQ10, Cod Liver Oil and Vitamins A, C, & E to promote healthy cardiovascular function, support liver health and enhance immune response.
Because deer occur broadly across Maryland, the practical way to look for them is to identify legal, publicly accessible habitat and check local rules rather than chase a particular “largest” individual. Dawn and dusk are common wildlife-viewing periods, but traffic, hunting seasons, and private-land restrictions can make a site unsuitable.
3. American beaver
The Maryland Manual describes the American beaver as about 3.5 feet long and weighing 33–77 pounds. It is semi-aquatic and is the largest rodent in North America. That continental distinction does not, by itself, establish a Maryland ranking against every other large animal.
Beavers are associated with ponds, streams, wetlands, and other freshwater systems. The cited material does not identify one current public location that guarantees sightings. Look for signs such as dams, lodges, gnawed trunks, and slides only where access is lawful, and confirm conditions with the managing park or land agency.
4. Coyote
Maryland’s largest wild canine, according to the Maryland Manual, the coyote generally weighs 30–40 pounds. This is a general reference range, not a maximum and not a basis for placing coyotes above or below every other species in a precise statewide ranking.
Rank #3
- COMPLETE 26-IN-1 DAILY WELLNESS FORMULA: Our advanced multivitamin for dogs is formulated to help support 26 vital nutritional areas as part of a daily routine. With essential vitamins A, C, D3, and E, these gummies help support the immune system and contribute to overall heart and brain health for dogs of all sizes.
- ADVANCED HIP AND JOINT MOBILITY SUPPORT: Formulated with Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin, and MSM to help support cartilage health, joint flexibility, and everyday mobility — making them a great daily supplement for large breed dogs and active senior dogs.
- SKIN & COAT SUPPORT: Packed with Norwegian Salmon Oil and Biotin, our dog multivitamin helps nourish skin from within and supports a soft, glossy coat. Omega 3 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and coat as part of a complete daily nutritional routine.
- PROBIOTICS & DIGESTIVE SUPPORT: Features a Six-Probiotic Blend (500 Million CFU) and Digestive Enzymes to help support gut health, smooth digestion, and nutrient absorption. Cranberry Powder is included as part of this comprehensive daily wellness formula.
- UNBEATABLE VALUE 250 COUNT JAR: Our 250-count jar provides lasting daily support in a delicious chicken flavor. Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility, our soft chews are grain-free and suitable for puppies, adult, and senior dogs alike.
The material available here does not provide a current, site-specific DNR location for viewing coyotes. Before naming a trail, refuge, or county, consult the current DNR species account and the land manager’s access rules. Coyotes are wild predators; observe from a distance, keep pets controlled, and do not leave food or garbage that could condition them to people.
5. Sika deer
Sika deer are introduced to Maryland rather than native. The state reference gives a weight of 50–100 pounds and associates them with marshy areas and fields. Their introduced status is important: they belong in a Maryland wildlife guide, but they should not be described as a native component of the state’s original fauna.
Precise current locations and public viewing access need confirmation before a trip. Marsh roads, fields, and adjacent wetlands may include private property, seasonal closures, or hunting restrictions. Check the current DNR account and the relevant property manager rather than relying on an old sighting report.
6. Assateague ponies and other feral horses
Maryland’s state reference classifies feral ponies as introduced. The Assateague ponies are the best-known example associated with Maryland, but they are managed animals living under park rules, not a native wild-horse population.
Rank #4
- Joint Health Supplement for Dogs: Cosequin is the #1 vet recommended retail joint health supplement brand, supporting joint health in dogs for over 25 years
- Contains Glucosamine for Dogs: Cosequin contains glucosamine hydrochloride (FCHG49) and sodium chondroitin sulfate (TRH122), plus methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). This unique combination of ingredients supports healthy joints
- For Any Breed or Size: Whether you have a young or senior dog, a small or large breed, Cosequin helps support their joint health
- Tasty Chews for Daily Use: Cosequin comes in a tasty chewable tablet, making daily administration easy and convenient
- Exceptional Quality: Cosequin is backed by science, undergoing thorough quality inspections to ensure your dog receives a safe, high-quality product. It is manufactured in the United States with globally sourced ingredients
The evidence supplied here does not provide a current herd census, a standardized adult-weight range, or a guaranteed viewing point. Confirm which side of the island you will visit, the current management authority, seasonal access, and required distances before traveling. Never feed or approach the ponies; habituated horses can injure visitors and may suffer from human-provided food.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.7. American elk
Maryland DNR lists American elk among the mammals extirpated from the state. Extirpated means the species no longer maintains a wild population in Maryland. Elk therefore cannot honestly be presented as an animal visitors routinely find in Maryland forests.
An animal in a historical account, educational collection, or managed setting is not evidence of a current wild Maryland population. If a particular facility or reintroduction proposal is mentioned elsewhere, verify its present status and access directly with the responsible authority.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match8. American bison
American bison are also listed by Maryland DNR as extirpated from Maryland. They are relevant to the state’s natural-history story, but not to a list promising ordinary wild encounters. A captive bison, traveling exhibit, or animal outside Maryland does not change that status.
Best Value
- Itch & Allergy Relief with Omega-3 for Dogs - with 500mg of Omega (EPA+DHA) per serving, our chewable supplement helps with hot spots, dry itchy skin, ease itching, irritated skin, stops shedding.
- Skin & Coat + Hip & Joint Supplement Combined - Omega 3 is a vital element to keep your pet active, support healthy hip and joints, brain, heart, immune health. Can be served with regular pet food.
- Bark&Spark Commitment - we are keen to give best to our furry customers and we take NO compromise when it comes to product quality. Our omega 3 bites are made in the USA, with human grade ingredients.
- Up to 3 Month Supply - with 180 salmon oil treats per jar you keep your pet healthy while not spending a fortune on overpriced supplements. Best value.
- Is Your Dog a Picky Eater? We stick to simple formulas rich in natural flavors, that could tempt a fussy eater. No hassle with pills, powder, tablets or capsules.
For an accurate visit plan, distinguish historical presence from a living, free-ranging herd and check the current rules of any facility claiming to display bison. Do not enter restricted areas or assume that a photograph from a private collection represents Maryland wildlife.
9. Why the ninth slot remains unresolved
The cited Maryland materials do not establish a defensible ninth species with all three pieces of evidence needed for this title: a comparable adult-size measure, confirmed current presence in Maryland, and a reliable location or access path. Filling the gap with an accidental, vagrant, offshore, or purely captive animal would make the headline appear more certain than the evidence allows.
A future edition can add a ninth species after a current Maryland species account confirms those points. Until then, “nine largest” should be read as a search for nine notable large animals associated with Maryland, not as an official ranking.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
How to plan a responsible wildlife search
- Choose the status first. Decide whether you want a native resident, an introduced species, or a historical animal. Do not plan a wild encounter for an extirpated species.
- Check the current authority. Use Maryland DNR for species status and range, then check the park, refuge, or land manager for opening hours, closures, permits, and viewing rules.
- Match the habitat. Bears use forested mountain counties; deer use a wide range of habitats; beavers require freshwater; sika deer are associated with marshes and fields. Habitat raises the chance of finding signs, not the certainty of seeing an animal.
- Carry observation gear, not bait. A compact binocular is optional. Food, scent lures, drones, and close approaches create safety and wildlife-management problems.
- Leave distance and an exit route. Keep pets restrained, stay on designated paths, and back away calmly from large mammals. Follow every posted instruction, especially in bear country and around managed ponies.
What can be stated with confidence
Maryland has a clearly documented largest mammal: the black bear. White-tailed deer, beavers, coyotes, introduced sika deer, and feral ponies are also large animals associated with the state, while elk and bison are part of its extirpated wildlife history. What cannot be stated responsibly is an exact, current top-nine order covering all Maryland animals, because the available measurements, dates, statuses, and location evidence are not comparable.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Leave a Reply