Mammals of the American Deserts

[longknife]

Having grown up in Southern California, I've always been interested in the plants and animals that live in the deserts. As humans move into their territories, they adapt and we often find them in our yards and neighborhoods. These bighorn sheep are an example. They've discovered that the parks and gardens of Boulder City are great for grazing and it's not unusual to see a herd of them in the city park on your way to Hoover Dam.

This is one of my favorites and the center of many American Indians myths and legends. Camping in the desert at night, one enjoys the plaintiff serenade of coyotes as they call to each other. You can almost understand when one tells the pack they've found dinner and is inviting them to join in.

See and read more @ Photos: The Many Mammals of the North American Deserts

 

[yiostheoy]

Coyotes are the most successful wild mammal in North America. They range across all of it.

Black bears are similar in most respects.

Deer are similar in many respects as well.

As are raccoons, skunks, jack rabbits, opossums, armadillos, rats and mice.

All of these animal species have learned to coexist with humans and even to benefit from humans' habits of growing crops and gardens and also creating garbage.

Antelopes and bighorn sheep are somewhat more rare, but also somewhat successful in the arid regions.

And interestingly, feral cats have also become extremely successful in cities and in the countryside as well.

The coyotes and feral cats benefit humans the most by catching mice and rats and preventing disease from plague bacteria.

 

[longknife]

Antelopes are beautiful animals. Sadly, their range is restricted by fencing for one simple reason - as fast as they are, they don't seem to be able to jump barriers.