Oak, hickory, beech and male constitute Kentucky’s forests. ther common species of plants found in Kentucky are four species of magnolia the tulip poplar, eastern hemlock, and eastern white pine. The distinctive "knees" of the cypress may be seen along riverbanks. The most famous plant in Kentucky is bluegrass which is said to be blue only in May when dwarf iris and wild columbine are in bloom. Rare plants include the swamp loosestrife and showy gentian. Nine plant species were declared as endangered in 2003 by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. They include Braun's rock-cress, Cumberland sandwort, running buffalo clover, and Short's goldenrod.

Game mammals include the raccoon, muskrat, opossum, mink, gray and red foxes, and beaver. At least 300 bird species have been recorded, of which 200 are common. More than 100 types of fish have been identified in Kentucky.

Rare animal species include the swamp rabbit, black bear, raven (Corvus corax), and mud darter. 38 animal species were listed as threatened or endangered in Kentucky as of US Fish and Wildlife Service in 2003. These include three species of bat (Indiana, Virginia big-eared, and gray), bald eagle, puma, piping plover, Kentucky cave shrimp, and three species of pearly mussel.