Season: February

Learn about February animal behavior, including predator movement, early mating seasons, and small game hunting opportunities across different U.S. regions.

February in North American Wildlife

February marks a transitional period for wildlife across North America. The deep winter chill still dominates much of the continent, but subtle changes in animal behavior hint at the coming spring.

Mammals

The breeding season ends for species whose mating peaks in mid-winter, such as certain deer and coyotes, while it begins for early-spring breeders like foxes and some rodents. Many deer species, including white-tailed deer and mule deer, shed their antlers, starting the cycle of regrowth. Most hibernating mammals — such as black bears, groundhogs, and chipmunks — remain in their dens, though in southern regions some begin to stir. Fur-bearing animals show the first signs of molting as their winter coats slowly transition.

Winter Challenges

In the northern and central regions, February is often the hardest month for survival. Deep snow, icy winds, and limited food drive some predators — including wolves, foxes, and bobcats — closer to human settlements in search of prey. Herbivores like snowshoe hares and deer expend more energy moving through snow, increasing their vulnerability to predators and starvation.

Birds

For most areas, bird life still follows a distinctly winter pattern. Resident species such as grouse, quail, and certain woodpeckers maintain their winter routines. Migratory birds overwintering in southern parts of the continent — from the Gulf Coast to Mexico — start showing the first movements north. Ducks, geese, and swans begin their migration in the southern wetlands, with species like pintails, wigeons, and teal leading the way.

Regional Highlights

• Southern U.S. & Gulf Coast – Early arrivals of herons, egrets, and white ibises can be seen in wetlands. Waterfowl populations swell briefly as birds from Central America pause before heading north.

• Midwest & Great Plains – Large flocks of snow geese begin their northward flights late in the month, sometimes creating spectacular sky formations.

• Southwest – Sandhill cranes and certain duck species start their migration, while resident quail prepare for spring breeding.

• Pacific Coast – In coastal marshes, northern pintails and green-winged teal appear in growing numbers, with the first shorebirds beginning to move north.

• Northern U.S. & Canada – The still-harsh winter keeps most birds in wintering areas, but ravens and great horned owls begin courtship displays.

• Arctic & Subarctic – Life remains in deep winter stasis, though some seabirds gather at ice edges where food is available.

Signs of Spring

By the end of February, daylight noticeably increases, and in southern regions early buds appear on shrubs and trees. For wildlife, these changes signal a shift — breeding, migration, and feeding patterns begin to transition from survival mode to preparation for the warmer months ahead.

Game Species Found in February