Elk

Elk in Estes Park, Colorado. Elk also know by their Shawnee name Wapiti, meaning "white rump" are one of the largest members of the deer family. Although they weigh in at around 700 lbs, Elk are surprisingly fast. They can run up to 45 mph and have a vertical jump of 8 ft.

The Massive Martial Eagle

The martial eagle is the largest and most powerful eagle in Africa. It has a wingspan of 6 ft 4 in (2.6 meters). It is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.  They are shot on sight and poisoned by farmers because they are seen as a threat to livestock. Although the eagles doContinue reading "The Massive Martial Eagle"

The Black Spiny-Tailed Iguana

A black spiny-tailed iguana basking in the mexican sun. These are the world's fastest lizards, with a max speed of 34.6 km/h or 21.7mph. As more of their natural habitat is destroyed, the iguana populations continue to decline. Although black spiny-tailed iguanas are not considered endangered, there are several other iguana species that are endangered. Such asContinue reading "The Black Spiny-Tailed Iguana"

The Great Gerenuk

Gerenuks are considered near threatened by the IUCN. Meaning that their population is decreasing. Their biggest threat is the loss and fragmentation of their habitat.  Gerenuks are also known as giraffe gazelles. In order to reach certain foods gerenuks stand on their hind legs and stretch out their necks.

Great Horned Owl

A family of great horned owls nesting in a dead tree.  They are monogamous birds that share in parenting duties. They are very protective of their young and have been known to attack humans that come too close to their nest.  Owls can turn their heads up to 260 degrees in either direction to compensateContinue reading "Great Horned Owl"

Black-and-White ruffed Lemurs

The black-and-white ruffed lemur is Critically endangered! Deforestation/habitat destruction for agricultural use is their primary threat. They are also hunted for bushmeat.   Like all lemurs the black and white ruffed lemur is native in Madagascar. Madagascar has lost more than 90%  of its original forest. Forest loss is primarily due to the increase in theContinue reading "Black-and-White ruffed Lemurs"

….Squirrel…

A cheeky red squirrel munching on a black walnut. What red squirrels lack in size they make up for in personality. These feisty creatures relentlessly defend their territories. They are very vocal, making a variety of calls, rattles, growls, buzzes and chirps.

Alligator Snapping Turtle

The prehistoric looking alligator snapping turtle is one of the largest freshwater turtles. They are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN red list. Habitat destruction and game hunting are the main reasons for their decline.  Alligator snapping turtles are not aggressive predators They use their worm-like tongue to lure fish to their mouth. Then snap theirContinue reading "Alligator Snapping Turtle"