Coyotes in the Wild: Overview of Coyotes’ role in ecosystems The Adaptable Predator: Introducing the Coyote The desert sun beats down, baking the arid landscape. A flash of movement – a lean, tawny form disappears into the brush. The coyote, a creature of myth and reality, the embodiment of both wilderness and adaptation. Often portrayed … Read more
Unveiling the Armadillo: A Look at Their Unique Biology Physical Characteristics Armadillos, belonging to the family Dasypodidae, are immediately recognizable due to their distinctive protective shell. But there’s much more to them than meets the eye. Understanding their biology is crucial to understanding the challenges they face. Their most prominent feature is, of course, the … Read more
Understanding the Invisible Spectrum What is Infrared Light? To understand whether deer can perceive infrared light, we must first understand what infrared light *is*. Light, in its various forms, is a part of the electromagnetic spectrum, a vast range of energy that travels in waves. Visible light, the portion of the spectrum our eyes can … Read more
Introduction The coyote, *Canis latrans*, is a remarkably adaptable canid, a true survivor, and a fascinating subject of study. Found across a vast range of North America, coyotes have established a significant presence throughout Washington State, playing a crucial role in the state’s diverse ecosystems. This article dives deep into the world of coyotes in … Read more
An Omnivorous Appetite: The Versatile Diet of a Possum The unassuming opossum, often misunderstood and occasionally maligned, plays a vital role in North American ecosystems. This remarkable creature, easily identified by its pointed snout, prehensile tail, and sometimes-startling defense mechanism of “playing possum,” is much more than just a visitor to your backyard. One of … Read more
Echoes in the Water: The First Rumblings of a Scaled Resident The tranquil waters of Okmulgee Lake, a beloved spot for fishing, boating, and enjoying the beauty of Oklahoma, have recently stirred with a different kind of excitement. Whispers and reports of a scaly visitor, an alligator, have sent ripples through the community. While the … Read more
A Tale of Two Serpents: An Introduction to Kings and Constrictors The tropical and subtropical regions of our planet are home to a stunning array of wildlife, including some of the most awe-inspiring and fearsome reptiles known to humankind. Among these are the king cobra ( *Ophiophagus hannah*), a creature of legend with a potent … Read more
Do you yearn for the tranquility of nature, the simple joy of observing wildlife? Imagine waking up to the sight of graceful deer grazing peacefully in your backyard, a scene of serene beauty unfolding right outside your window. Attracting these magnificent creatures to your property is a rewarding endeavor, bringing you closer to the natural … Read more
The Majesty of the Grizzly The dense Alaskan wilderness, shimmering with glacial meltwater, holds more secrets than the average observer can perceive. In this realm of towering trees and untamed landscapes, a shadow moves unlike any other, a being of immense power and primal beauty. This is the grizzly bear, *Ursus arctos horribilis*, and among … Read more
The Sounds of Javelinas: A Vocal Repertoire The arid landscapes of the American Southwest and parts of Central and South America are home to a fascinating creature, the javelina. Known by various names, including the collared peccary, this pig-like animal is a true survivor, perfectly adapted to thrive in harsh environments. Beyond their distinctive appearance, … Read more
