More likely than not, we find ourselves praising the people and landmarks that make up all of New York state. But let's not forget, we share all 54,000 square miles with so many unique and head-turning creatures! From warm and fuzzy to wet and slimy - Here are 18 pictures of wildlife in New York that will totally drop your jaw:

1. Eastern (Red-Spotted) Newt

Small but mighty! These newts found across New York are known to live up to fifteen years! Lending a major hand to all New York residents, these poison secreting creatures help with reducing the mosquito population! Woo-hoo!

2. Karner Blue Butterfly

Currently on New York's endangered list, the Karner Blue Butterfly is one worth protecting. Found primarily in the Hudson Valley region, these butterflies survive off of blue lupine.

3. Bobcat

Generally found coming in at double the size of a the average cat you'd find passed out on your best friends bed, these amazing felines can be found in New York! In 2012 the state completed its management plan for the species, in hopes to improve their overall lives.

4. White-tailed Deer

The most popular game animal for New York, white-tailed deer are easily found all over the entire state.

5. Bald Eagle

Pictured soaring over the Hudson River, the Bald Eagle has become a major symbol for the United States. Recognized by its striking differences in color, the bald eagle's population in recent years has been back on a steady incline!

6. Monarch Butterfly

Known for its iconic and distinguishable wings, this butterfly can be found all throughout North America. Looking to attract these northern beauties to your backyard? Try planting milkweed, a Monarch favorite!

7. Beaver

One of New York's many symbols, the beaver holds a special place in our hearts! While we adore these wood-loving fur balls, we're still holding out for the day when one of them pulls a "Chronicles of Narnia" and finally starts speaking to us! Until then... we'll just continue to admire from afar.

8. Eastern Screech Owl

Coming in both red and gray, this large headed creation is often tricky to spot in the wild! If you stay quiet and listen closely, you may be able to find your way to these well hidden owls through the sounds of their voice!

9. Painted Bunting

No need to feel concern, we assure you this bird did not just come from a messy run-in with multiple paint cans! Often spotted in New York City's well-known parks, you'll more than likely lay your eyes on the females of its species, as the males are seen very seldom.

10. River Otter

Once found all across our state, the river otter is now generally located only in the eastern half of New York!

11. Snapping Turtle

Look at this thing, to say it is known to as hugely aggressive would be one of New York's biggest understatements. Ranking as one of North America's largest turtles, this guy has the power to take a finger from you without even asking. We promise you, you'll want to stay far, far away from them.

12. Mudskippers

Often found lounging amongst the rocks, you can find these fish (yes, fish) enjoying their lives both in AND out of the water. While these indeed funny looking things are fish, they also have the ability to drown if held under water! Yikes!

13. Gulls of Great Gull Island

Located in Suffolk County, Great Gull Island is home to many of New York's birds. Proving to be prime real estate, this island has become an ultimate favorite for our flighted friends to house their nests!

14. Cecropia Moth

This head-turning moth happens to be North America's largest native moth! Known to stretch its wings from areas in Maine all the way to the Rocky Mountains, this New York beauty you may just end up finding out of state!

15. Muskrat

At first glance you may be under the impression that you've stumbled across some sort of beaver but fear not, it's just a muskrat! Need to remember a noticeable feature to recognize this fella in the future? Remember that the muskrat has a long, rat-like tail unlike any beaver's you'll see!

16. Moose

Our largest mammal in New York, the moose can be known to cause up quite the stir! While we love our giant mammals, sometimes we're often shocked to see the 6-feet tall beauties walking amongst us...or even hanging out in our front yard!

17. Red Fox

Found across almost every county in New York state, these nocturnal critters can sometimes be found up and awake during the day. When the Red Fox isn't busy sleeping, it's usually exploring great distances and claiming new territory as its own!

18. Raccoon

If you're a long time resident of New York, 9 times out of 10 you'll most likely have some strange story about an encounter with a raccoon. While these furry friends often make us want to bring them home to be our newest family pet, they fall under New York's protection. Better luck next time?

How stunning! If you, yourself have captured an amazing shot of New York's wildlife, don't hesitate to share it on our Facebook page!