Maine Backyard Chicken Laws by Town: Permits, Coops, and Rooster Rules

Maine made headlines in 2025 when it became one of the few states to pass a law explicitly protecting residents’ right to keep backyard hens — but that doesn’t mean anything goes. While the state has drawn a clear line against outright municipal bans, your town still holds significant power over how, where, and how […]

Maine Apiary Regulations: Licensing, Hive Placement, and Neighbor Notification Laws

If you’re planning to keep bees in Maine, understanding the state’s apiary regulations isn’t optional—it’s legally required. Maine has specific laws governing everything from hive registration to disease management, and failing to comply can result in fines or forced removal of your colonies. Whether you’re a first-time beekeeper or expanding your existing operation, you need […]

8 Invasive Insects You Can Find in Maine Right Now

Maine’s forests face an unprecedented threat. Over the past two decades, invasive insects have spread across the state, killing thousands of ash trees, weakening hemlocks along the coast, and threatening the economic and ecological foundation of the Pine Tree State. You might already have these destructive pests in your yard without knowing it. This guide […]

Roadkill Laws in Maine: Your Guide to Safe and Legal Salvage

Hitting a deer or moose on Maine’s roads can happen in an instant, leaving you with vehicle damage and questions about what to do next. Many drivers don’t know that Maine has specific laws about what happens after these accidental collisions. You might wonder if you’re allowed to take the animal home or if you […]

9 Types of Frogs Found in Maine (ID Guide with Pictures and Sounds)

Maine’s forests, wetlands, and vernal pools echo with amphibian calls that mark the changing seasons as reliably as any calendar. While you might expect dozens of species in such diverse habitats, only nine types of frogs in Maine have established populations—a surprisingly modest number for a state with such abundant freshwater resources. Each species has […]

Popular Dog Breeds in Maine: What Local Owners Choose

If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your Maine household, you’re probably wondering which breeds thrive in our unique climate and lifestyle. Maine dog owners consistently gravitate toward breeds that excel in cold weather, love outdoor adventures, and fit seamlessly into family life. Whether you’re drawn to the classic Labrador Retriever or curious about […]

Is It Legal to Own a Raccoon in Maine? Laws, Permits, and Safer Alternatives Explained

Many people fall in love with raccoons’ adorable masked faces and playful behavior, leading them to wonder if they can legally keep one as a pet. Maine allows raccoon ownership, making it one of only 16 states where owning a pet raccoon is legal. However, the path to raccoon ownership involves strict regulations and permits […]

Caterpillars in Maine That Cause Rashes: 6 Species to Avoid for Your Safety

Maine’s outdoor enthusiasts face an unexpected health threat that many discover too late—caterpillars that can cause painful, poison ivy-like rashes and serious respiratory problems. With browntail moth caterpillars alone affecting all 16 Maine counties and being declared a public health nuisance by the Maine CDC, understanding these rash-causing species has become essential for anyone spending […]

10 Sharks You Might See While Swimming in Maine (And What to Do)

Maine’s coastal waters might surprise you with their shark diversity. While many people assume these cold Atlantic waters are shark-free, you could actually encounter up to 10 different shark species during your summer swim. Most pose no threat to humans, but knowing which sharks inhabit Maine waters and how to respond safely can make your […]

Venomous Animals in Maine: What Lives Here and How to Stay Safe

You might be surprised to learn that Maine, known for its rugged natural beauty and relatively mild wildlife, is home to several venomous creatures. While the Pine Tree State doesn’t have rattlesnakes or scorpions like some regions, you still need to know about the spiders and stinging insects that call Maine home. Understanding these venomous […]