35 Different Types of Garter Snakes

Garter snakes are common snakes found in gardens and backyards throughout the United States.  When you find one of these snakes in your garden, how do you identify them?  In this post, we list all the types of Garter snakes.

Thirty-five species of Garter snakes are found in North America, Quebec, Southern Ontario, and the Gulf of Mexico. They are the Common, Sierra, Butler’s, Santa Cruz, Mexican, Western Terrestrial, Short-headed, Bogert’s, Goldman’s, Checkered, Plains, and Northwestern Garter snakes, to name a few.

Garter snakes are intriguing and a vital part of the ecosystem.  If you want to know how many species exist, look no further; they are all listed here.

The 35 Types of Garter Snakes

1. Bogert’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis bogerti
2. Santa Cruz Garter Snake – Thamnophis atratus 
3. Butler’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis butleri
4. Common Garter Snake – Thamnophis sirtalis 
5. Short-headed Garter Snake – Thamnophis brachystoma 
6. Conant’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis conanti
7. Golden-headed Garter Snake – Thamnophis chrysocephalus
8. Black-necked Garter Snake – Thamnophis cyrtopsis
9. Western Terrestrial Garter Snake – Thamnophis elegans
10. Sierra Garter Snake – Thamnophis couchii 
11. Mexican Garter Snake – Thamnophis eques
12. Exiled Garter Snake – Thamnophis exsul
13. Mexican Wandering Garter Snake – Thamnophis errans 
14. Giant Garter Snake – Thamnophis gigas
15. Mesoamerican Highlands Garter Snake – Thamnophis fulvus 
16. Godman’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis godmani
17. Sumichrast’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis sumichrasti  
18. Two-striped Garter Snake – Thamnophis hammondii
19. Checkered Garter Snake – Thamnophis marcianus
20. Liner’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis lineri
21. Plains Garter Snake – Thamnophis radix
22. Madrean Narrow-headed Garter Snake – Thamnophis unilabialis 
23. Tamaulipan Montane Garter Snake – Thamnophis mendax
24. Mexican Alpine Blotched Garter Snake – Thamnophis scalaris 
25. Southern Durango Spotted Garter Snake – Thamnophis nigronuchalis
26. Tepalcatepec Valley Garter Snake – Thamnophis postremus
27. Northwestern Garter Snake – Thamnophis ordinoides
28. Western Ribbon Snake – Thamnophis proximus
29. Rossman’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis rossmani
30. Eastern Ribbon Snake – Thamnophis sauritus
31. Mesa Central Blotched Garter Snake – Thamnophis scaliger
32. Narrow-headed Garter Snake – Thamnophis rufipunctatus 
33. Mexican Pacific Lowlands Garter Snake – Thamnophis validus
34. Mexican Black-bellied Garter Snake – Thamnophis melanogaster
35. Yellow-throated Garter Snake – Thamnophis pulchrilatus 

The Garter Snake, the Most Common Type

… Read the rest of the story.

Fox vs. Bobcat

The Fox and the Bobcat are two of the world’s most unique and versatile creatures. Many compare the Fox and the Bobcat as they have an overlap of prey items and habitats, but what are the differences between them?

Foxes are closer to dogs, while Bobcats are true cats. Foxes are omnivores that are found naturally across the entire Northern Hemisphere. Bobcats are localized to North America and are strictly carnivores. Foxes vary wildly in size and variety. Bobcats remain broadly similar across the species.

There are some similarities between Foxes and Bobcats, but there are even more differences. Let’s learn about Foxes and Bobcats to better understand them and to compare them more fairly. Here is a broad overview of Foxes and Bobcats for the purposes of comparison.

Table of Contents

• The Fox
  • Fox Biology
  • Fox Habitats 
  • Fox Diet
• The Bobcat
  • Bobcat Biology
  • Bobcat Habitats
  • Bobcat Diet
• The Fox vs. The Bobcat
• Conclusion

The Fox

The Fox is a species of animal from the Canidae family, which is a family of dog-like carnivoran animals. There are several different species, and sub-species of Foxes found internationally. Some believe there to be more than 30 different sub-species of Foxes.

These animals are fascinating and incredibly versatile. They are found in several different regions and countries internationally and are extremely versatile.

Let’s look a little deeper into some of the important characteristics of Foxes, their habitats, their biology, and their diets, to better compare and differentiate between Foxes and Bobcats.

Fox Biology

Foxes are small to medium-sized animals that are found in several variations of color, size, weight and have varying attributes.

There are 12 true species of Fox, but up to 30 different sub-species found internationally. 

The smallest true fox species is the Fennec Fox, found in North Africa and the Middle East, which typically weighs between 1.5 and 3.5 pounds (0.7 – 1.6 kilograms) and grows to between 13.6 and 15.6 inches (34.5 – 39.5cm) long, excluding the 3.5 inches (9cm) long tail. 

The largest species of fox in the world is the Red Fox, which is found widespread in … Read the rest of the story.

Fox vs. Raccoon

Both foxes and raccoons can be found in the wild and urban environments all over North America and other countries worldwide. I have often wondered what some of their similarities might be and how they might differ. It turns out there is lots of information on the topic, so what differences and similarities are there between foxes and raccoons?

Foxes are nocturnal, social creatures; fur color ranges from white, red, orange, and black to silver, with bushy tails. Raccoons are nocturnal, antisocial creatures with a mixture of brown, grey, and black fur, striped tail with mask-like markings around their eyes. Both animals are omnivorous.

Foxes and raccoons share some fundamental differences and some interesting similarities. There are many other aspects of these animals’ lives that might be just as interesting, so let’s take a closer look at foxes vs. raccoons.

Table of Contents

• Fox vs. Raccoon: What are the Physical Differences?
• Fox vs. Raccoon: What are the Differences in Size?
• Fox vs. Raccoons: How Do their Habitats Differ?
• Fox vs. Raccoon: How Do their Diets Differ?
• Fox vs. Raccoon: What are their Different Habits?
• Fox vs. Raccoon: How Do they Raise their Young?
• Conclusion

Fox vs. Raccoon: What are the Physical Differences?

Foxes have triangular snouts, flattened skulls, and fluffy tails. Their fur comes in many colors; for example, the Arctic fox is either white or blue morph, changing color with the seasons. The white morph is gray or brown in the summer months, turning white to match the snow in winter.

The blue morph is brown or dark grey all year long.

Red foxes are considered the most common fox, coming in many colors, including black, silver, and orange or a mixture of all three. Humans have also bred foxes to get the color variations they want in their fur, including white with black or grey streaks, red and black patches, and pink noses with peachy-white fur.

The raccoon’s most characteristic feature is their face mask, black fur covering their eyes. These markings have been hypothesized to help them see in the dark, reducing glare and enhancing their night … Read the rest of the story.

4 Different Types of Kingsnakes

Kingsnakes are some of the most gentle-natured and calm snakes in the world. They’re all non-venomous and subdue their prey via constriction. This is why they have been encouraged as one of the nicest pet snakes to own, even for newer snake owners. But exactly how many types of kingsnakes are there? And which ones make for the best pets?

Whether you’re looking to own one of these docile creatures or simply want to know more about them, this article is for you. Let’s dive right in and have a look at some of the different types of kingsnakes.

Table of Contents

• 1. Milk Snake
  • Appearance
  • Habitat
  • Behavior
  • Diet
  • Hunting Style
• 2. Mexican Black Kingsnake
  • Appearance
  • Habitat
  • Behavior
  • Diet
• 3. California Kingsnake
  • Appearance
  • Habitat
  • Behavior
  • Diet
• 4. Scarlet Kingsnake
  • Appearance
  • Habitat
  • Behavior
  • Diet
• Conclusion

1. Milk Snake

Milk snakes are brightly colored and beautifully patterned nonvenomous New World snakes. Milk snakes are classified into 24 subspecies.

Milk snakes got their name from a folktale about a snake slithering into a barn and drinking the milk from nursing cows; however, this story has no basis in truth and is completely impossible because snakes do not possess lips and cannot absorb that much milk.

Appearance

Milk snakes vary in appearance and colors among the 24 subspecies, but they all have banded coloration. These bands might be white, red, or black in hue, and alternating bands of different colors are prevalent.

They might use white, yellow, or orange to separate the colored bands. The darker stripes have a black outline. The necks of many milk snakes have a light-colored Y or V form.

Milk snakes range in length from 14 to 69 inches. Central and South America are home to the world’s longest snakes. Milk snakes do not exceed 51 inches in length in the United States and Canada.

Milk snakes have smooth scales that are arranged in 19 to 23 rows. There is only one anal plate on these snakes. Males and females of milk snakes are sexually alike, meaning they reach the same length and all have the same colors and … Read the rest of the story.

2 Types of Sunbeam Snakes

Sunbeam snakes are beautiful, but what makes them so intriguing?  Let’s find out why they are so sought after by reptile enthusiasts.

The Common Sunbeam snake and the Hainan Sunbeam snake are the two types of Sunbeam snakes. When Sunbeam snakes slither into the sun, their bodies shine iridescent, like a sunbeam; that’s why they are also called Iridescent Earth snakes.

Sunbeam snakes are fascinating pets; before you go out and get one, it is essential to do a little research about them.  In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about these snakes.

Table of Contents

• Common Sunbeam Snakes –  Xenopeltis unicolor
  • Habitat and Diet
  • Behavior
  • Lifespan
• Hainan Sunbeam Snake – Xenopeltis hainanensis 
  • Habitat and Diet
  • Behavior
  • Lifespan
• 16 Points to Remember When Keeping Sunbeam Snakes as Pets
• Types of Food to Feed Sunbeam Snakes
• Conclusion

Common Sunbeam Snakes – Xenopeltis unicolor

The common Sunbeam snake is not native to the United States.  It is found in Southeast Asia in countries like China, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and some parts of Indonesia.

They belong to the more primitive group of snakes that include pythons and boas.  Sunbeam snakes have two lungs instead of one lung found in more modern species and do not have the pelvic girdle.

Their scales overlap with tiny ridges that run along the snake’s body length, reducing the friction that helps when they burrow under the ground.

Common Sunbeam snakes are slender and measure 3 feet long when fully grown that can weigh 2.2 lb.  It has a wedge-shaped head, robust body, rounded snout, and small eyes with a short tail.  Some records show Sunbeam snakes that grew four feet long. 

The wedge-shaped head of the Sunbeam snake helps them dig into the ground when making a burrow and is slightly thinner than their body.    

Their brown bodies glow iridescent rainbow colors when in sunlight.  When in the shade, the colors on the Sunbeam snake’s back appear black to dark purple.  Their scales have a blue, green, yellow, and red sheen when exposed to sunlight. 

There are nanostructures that cause the … Read the rest of the story.

Fox vs. Eagle

I read somewhere that eagles are admired worldwide for their symbol of freedom and power and that the fox is just a timid animal! But how would we compare fox vs. eagle?

Foxes are mammals and nurture their young in dens. They are omnivores feeding off vegetation and meat and are nocturnal animals who hunt at night. Eagles are birds of prey and raise their chicks in nests. They are carnivores living off fish and meat and are diurnal who hunt in the day.

The fox and the eagle are two very different species but do we know more interesting facts about how they raise their young, where they live, how they hunt, and their physical features!

Table of Contents

• What are the Physical Difference Between the Fox and the Eagle?
  • The Fox
  • The Eagle
• Other Features and Facts of the Fox and the Eagle
  • Foxes
  • Eagles
• Where Do the Fox and the Eagle Live?
  • Foxes Live In:
  • Eagles Live In:
• Family Life of the Fox and the Eagle
  • How Do Foxes Raise their Pups?
  • How Do Eagles Raise their Chicks?
• What Do Foxes and Eagles Eat and How Do they Hunt?
• Who are their Predators?
• Conclusion

What are the Physical Difference Between the Fox and the Eagle?

The Fox

Foxes are mammals that are small to medium in stature.  The ears are upright and triangular, and the snout is slightly upturned. 

Foxes have bushy tails, and their pelts are denser in winter, thinning out once a year when they molt.  The colors are red, brown, or black.  They walk on their toes and have partially retractable claws.

The Eagle

Eagles are powerful birds of prey with strong muscular legs, powerful talons, and large hooked beaks. The body of an eagle is light in weight, allowing easy takeoff action, and is strong enough to swoop down to grab its prey and, still in flight, carry it to its feeding ground.

Eagles are excellent fliers, and their wings are remarkable; made from keratin, they are wide and reach a wingspan of over 8 feet long.

The eagle’s eyes are large and take up 50% … Read the rest of the story.

Coyotes: How Fast? How High Do They Jump?

Ever wondered if you could outrun a coyote or if your fence is high enough that one couldn’t jump over it? These are questions I’ve often wondered about myself, so I decided to research the matter and found some interesting information! So, how fast can coyotes run, and how high can they jump?

A coyote can reach a maximum speed of 43mph; studies on injured or crippled coyotes recorded maximum speeds of 32mph. They have been recorded to jump distances of 14 feet and over obstacles 8 feet high. They are also known to be able to climb 14-foot fences using their back legs.

Coyotes are found in most states in Northern America, from Canada down to Central America, and have spread into urban areas. Due to this, humans come into contact with them more often as they go about their daily lives. Now that we know that coyotes can run pretty fast and get over high obstacles, it’s a good idea to take a more informative look at coyotes’ speed and jumping abilities.

Table of Contents

• How Fast Can Coyotes Run and How High Can They Jump?
• How Can You Prevent a Coyote From Getting into Your Yard?
• How Can You Make Your Yard Less Attractive to Coyotes?
• What Can You Do if You Come Into Contact with a Coyote?
• Conclusion

How Fast Can Coyotes Run and How High Can They Jump?

How fast a coyote can run will depend on the age, health, and physique of the animal in question, it will also depend on the situation at hand. Is the coyote being chased, or is it hunting?

Studies conducted in 1976 by BC Thompson showed that crippled coyotes could reach speeds of just under 32 mph.

The test subjects were three injured coyotes caught in steel traps and, as a result, could not use one of their feet. The studies included releasing the injured coyotes, singularly, into a fenced-off area and then chasing them on foot. They might have reached higher speeds if they were chased by a car.

Uninjured coyotes can reach maximum speeds of 43 … Read the rest of the story.

Coyote Packs: How Big? How Do They Function Together?

Coyotes live all across Northern America, up into Canada and down into Central America.

They are often seen wandering around singularly and in pairs. Hearing stories about coyotes and seeing them on TV has made me wonder about their pack-life. How big are coyote packs, and how do they function together?

Coyote packs are made up of an alpha male and female mated pair. The rest of the pack comprises close relatives, the alpha pair’s latest liter, numbering between 4 – 7 pups, and depending on the location, 3 – 4 other adults often encompassing individuals from previous litters. 

Knowing that coyote packs are made up of family members is just the tip of the iceberg. There is so much more information on how these pack members function together as a unit. Let’s delve deeper into the ins and outs of coyote packs.

Table of Contents

• How are Coyote Packs Formed?
• How Big are Coyote Pack Territories?
• How Do Coyotes Pack Members Communicate with One Another?
• Do All Coyotes Live in a Pack?
• Conclusion

How are Coyote Packs Formed?

Male and female coyote mated pairs are often monogamous, remaining together for many years. Once mated, the couple forms the basis of their pack, from where they produce their offspring, who in essence become the newest members of their pack. Mating season for coyotes is between January and March, and gestation lasts between 58 – 65 days, after which a female will bear between 4 -7 pups per litter.

During this time, the female coyote will make use of a den or underground burrow. In case of a flood, these dens are often found on a hillside with good drainage and a good vantage point to see any approaching danger. Females will dig a new burrow, use a previously dug burrow or take over other animals’ burrows, such as a badger hole.

The newest pack members are born blind and therefore stay in the den for up to 2 – 3 weeks before they venture outside to play and begin their life lessons. By weeks 5 – 7, the pups are … Read the rest of the story.

10 Different Types of Boa Constrictors

In the world of snakes, Boas stand out from the crowd with their size and bulk, but the terminology used for these slithering giants can be somewhat confusing. While Boa is the scientific classification for several different families of snakes that kill by constricting their prey, Boa constrictors are their own specific species of Boa with various subspecies. In other words, a Boa constrictor is a type of Boa snake.

Boas are also not to be confused with Pythons. The main difference between these closely related snakes is reproduction, where Boas give birth to live young while Pythons lay eggs. Pythons are also referred to as old-world snakes being found across Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Boas can be found worldwide but are primarily concentrated in the Americas and therefore seen as new-world snakes.

There are currently ten types of Boa constrictors recognized in taxonomy; Amarai’s, Red-tailed, Northern, Tumbes Peru, Mexican, Dominican Clouded, Argentine, St Lucia, Orton’s, and the Pearl Island boa constrictor. Although similar, there are differences in appearance and adaptations across regions.

The differences and variations in these Boa constrictor subspecies are sometimes very subtle, but looking at their localities and unique physical markers will help you identify all the different Boa constrictors in your life.

Table of Contents

• What is a Boa Constrictor?
• What are the Different Types of Boa Constrictors?
  • 1. Amarai’s Boa Constrictor (Amarali)
  • 2. Red-Tailed Boa Constrictor (Constrictor Constrictor)
  • 3. Northern Boa (Imperator)
  • 4. Tumbes Peru Boa Constrictor (Longicauda)
  • 5. The Mexican Boa Constrictor (Sigma)
  • 6. Dominican Clouded Boa Constrictor (Nebulosa)
  • 7. Argentine Boa Constrictor (Occidentalis)
  • 8. St Lucia Boa Constrictor (Orphias)
  • 9. Orton’s Boa Constrictor (Ortonii)
  • 10. Pearl Island Boa Constrictor (Sabogae)
• Conclusion

What is a Boa Constrictor?

A boa constrictor is a large snake found from Central to South America and even on the Caribbean islands.

They are non-venomous snakes that kill by constricting their prey. For many years it was believed that the constriction was killed by suffocation, but new research has brought to light that the mechanism of death is the disruption of the circulatory system. The constriction cuts blood circulation … Read the rest of the story.

5 Different Types of Forests in Idaho

If you’ve ever spent the night under a starry sky, you’ve truly lived. Camping is a favorite of my family because it makes us realize how small we truly are! Idaho has many such forests, and they offer sustenance, economic stability, and endless hours of leisure, each in their own way. So, what types of forests are there in Idaho?

Idaho consists of three forest types, divided by the north and south: Grasslands, Aquatic Wetlands, Desert Regions. They are all mixed-forests, so temperatures vary wildly, from 10 ºF (-8 ºC) to 70 ºF (25 ºC).  The fauna and flora are unique to each region, and each contains endangered species.

Forests each boast an ecosystem unique to themselves, and seeing how they all merge, is quite spectacular! Join me as I share many wonderful facts about Idaho’s forests and the role they play in sustaining the life that relies on them.

Table of Contents

• Types Of Forests In Idaho
• What Biomes Exist In Idaho?
• What Kind Of Trees Are In Idaho?
• What Fauna Can You Find In Idaho?
• How Do The Forests Of Idaho Affect Seasons?
• What Flora Grows In The Forests Of Idaho?
• Three Of Idaho’s Greatest Hiking Trails
• Idaho Wildfires: Good Or Bad?
• Idaho’s Endangered Fauna
• Three Must-See National Parks In Idaho’s
• How Does Idaho Look After Their Forests?
• What Issues Do Forests In Idaho Face?
• Conclusion

Types Of Forests In Idaho

Since all of Idaho’s forests are mixed forests, you would think they share similarities, but they are pretty different. The grasslands are located in the north of Idaho. Plants that inhabit this area are wheatgrass, wildflowers, and fescue. The Grasslands can be very windy due to the lack of trees numbering the landscape.

However, this is a boon for the flora because they use the wind to pollinate instead of insects. Temperatures are somewhere in the middle, never cold or scorching hot. Due to the lack of trees, mammals such as red foxes dig their own burrows to store food and rear their young because it is cooler.   

The Desert areas form part of … Read the rest of the story.

19 Different Types of Forests in Oregon

Oregon is the ninth biggest state in size, with over 62 million acres. Over 2 percent of it is water, and nearly half (30 million acres) is forest. These forests are owned or run by a large number of organizations, the government, and citizens.

That’s a lot of trees. But what types of forests are there in Oregon? Are they all pine?

Coniferous trees make up 86 percent of Oregon’s forests. Douglas-fir is the most popular tree, making up 35 percent. Following are ponderosa pine, and Western hemlock.

Oregon’s hardwood forests cover around 3 million acres, and common trees are alder, maple, western oak, tanoak, and laurel.

Oregon is a diverse state in geography, climate, and thus, so are its forests and trees. Oregon has 67 native species, thirty of which are coniferous and 37 that are broadleaf. The denser forests are closer to the coast, while the arid climate of the semi-desert forces the trees to spread out.

The state hosts a mix of working forests and old growth.

Table of Contents

• Who Owns And Manages Oregon’s Forests?
  • National Forests
    • 11 Oregon National Forests
      • Deschutes National Forest
      • Fremont National Forest
      • Malheur National Forest
      • Mt. Hood National Forest
      • Ochoco National Forest
      • Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest
      • Siuslaw National Forest
      • Umatilla National Forest
      • Umpqua National Forest
      • Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
      • Willamette National Forest
  • State Forest
    • 6 Oregon State Forests
      • Clatsop State Forest
      • Elliot State Forest
      • Gilchrist State Forest
      • Santiam State Forest
      • Sun Pass State Forest
      • Tillamook State Forest
  • Individuals
  • Urban Forests
• 6 Common Trees in Oregon Forests
  • Douglas-fir
  • Juniper
  • Lodgepole Pine
  • Ponderosa Pine
  • Subalpine-fir
  • Western Hemlock
• Are There Redwoods in Oregon?
  • Popular Trails Through Oregon’s Redwoods
    • Oregon Redwoods Trail
    • The Redwood Nature Trail

Who Owns And Manages Oregon’s Forests?

The estimated 2.7 billion tons of trees (alive and dead) are roughly spread out between the government (Federal, state, and local), Native Americans, land trusts and conversation groups, and private ownership (companies and individuals).

National Forests

The federal government has eleven national forests in Oregon, which make up around 25 percent of the state’s land. These national forests are a mix of working forests … Read the rest of the story.

3 Types of Forests in Saskatchewan

Known for its breathtakingly beautiful flat prairie landscapes, as well as its dunes and thousands of lakes, Saskatchewan is a paradise for those who love the outdoors! As someone who loves the outdoors, I know what it means to appreciate its impact on our daily lives. So, what type of forests exist in Saskatchewan?

Saskatchewan has four different types of forests: urban forests, agro-forests, commercial forests, and northern forests (nine forests). They provide cover from the prairie winds and the summer sun, improve the economy by planting trees for agriculture, give renewable resources.

Saskatchewan’s identity lies in its surrounding forests. They can give us some great insight into the lifestyle that locals choose to lead. Each forest is unique and serves a very special purpose that helps Saskatchewan thrive. Let’s take a deeper look at how Saskatchewan forests add infinite value!

Table of Contents

• Types Of Forests In Saskatchewan
• What Is The Biggest Forest In Saskatchewan?
• Which Forest Poses The Most Dangers?
• Which Biomes Are Found In Saskatchewan Forests? 
• What Floras Exist In Saskatchewan Forests?
• Which Animals Have Their Home In Saskatchewan’s Forests?
• What Are Saskatchewan Forest Seasons Like?
• What Threatens The Preservation Of Saskatchewan Forests?
• Two Must-See National Parks In Saskatchewan Forests
• What Are The Most Common Trees In Saskatchewan?
• What Is The Oldest Tree In Saskatchewan?
• What Is The Hardest Hike To Do In Saskatchewan?
• Conclusion

Types Of Forests In Saskatchewan

Urban Forests in Saskatchewan is a huge boon for the locals! The vast majority of urban areas are plants grown by the residents who live there. Originally, there were few trees in the southern sections of the province to greet settlers due to the nature of the Prairies and the frequent fires, save in coulées and along river banks.

Cultivating agricultural products during the short growing season was a necessity. It was better to use existing wood for living purposes. The purpose of planting trees was to protect the prairie winds and the summer sun, resulting in the formation of an urban forest in each settlement.

Agro-forests have seen a lot of success in Saskatchewan. Agriculture … Read the rest of the story.

6 Different Types of Forests in Alberta

Forests are a spectacular natural creation that is as beautiful as it is dangerous. I adore the city, but camping with friends and family and hiking has its special magic that is irreplaceable!  

There is a lot to be admired, so let’s start our trek together and discover what makes these forests such a breath of fresh air.

Alberta has six types of forests; Alberta Mountain Forests, Alberta-British Columbia foothills forests, Aspen Parkland, Mid-Continental Canadian Forests, Muskwa-Slave Lake Forests, and North Central Rockies forests. Each forest boasts a unique tree species and wildlife native to its region.

We can all guess what may lie in a forest, but in each forest is a thriving ecosystem unique to its region! The chance to view such a magnificent spectacle is exciting, especially considering that we rely on them for our survival, too!

Table of Contents

• Types of Forests in Alberta
• What Is The Biggest Forest In Alberta?
• Which Forest Poses The Most Dangers?
• Which Biomes Are Found In Alberta Forests?
• What Floras Exist In Alberta’s Forests?
• What Are Alberta Forests Famous For?
• Which Animals Have Their Home In Alberta’s Forests?
• What Are Alberta Forest Seasons Like?
• Are Forest Disasters Common In Alberta?
• What Threatens The Preservation Of Alberta’s Forests?
• Two Must-See National Parks In Alberta Forests
• What Is The Hardest Hike To Do In Alberta?
• Conclusion

Types of Forests in Alberta

In Western Canada, the Alberta Mountains are an ecoregion of temperate coniferous forests. This ecoregion includes Alberta’s majestic Rocky Mountains, as well as the Continental Ranges’ eastern outliers. It is a glacier-covered location with towering mountains and a forest of tall trees.

The Alberta–British Columbia foothills forests are a temperate coniferous forests ecoregion of Western Canada. It borders Canada’s taiga and contains a mix of subarctic forest and temperate forest species. 

Aspen parkland consists of groves of aspen poplars and spruce trees mixed with prairie grasslands and vast stream and river valleys bordered with dense aspen-spruce woods and shrubs. There are several tiny lakes and ponds in this mountainous terrain. It is the world’s largest boreal-grassland transition zone!

Mid-Continental Canadian forests’ ecoregion extends through most of north-eastern Alberta. There are … Read the rest of the story.

6 Different Types of Forests in Africa

Africa is the second-largest continent in the world and has been credited with the birthplace of humanity. Our ties to Africa are ancient and none more than the link to its forests. In literature, pop culture, exploration, and wonder, the deep enchanted forests of the Congo are what we picture when we think of Africa. But, what other types of forests do we find on the continent?

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, approximately 22.7% of Africa is covered in forests. These forests are divided between “Tropical” and “Temperate.” Forests biomes are located in Sub-Saharan Africa, with the greatest biomass in West and Central Africa.

Although the overarching categories of forests are limited to tropical and temperate, local environmental conditions shape the formation of these forests to create some interesting varieties and diversity.

Table of Contents

• A Guide To The Types Of Forests Found In Africa
  • Tropical Rainforests In Africa
    • Examples Of Tropical Rainforests In Africa: The Congo Rainforest And Guinean Forests
    • Fauna And Flora Of The Congolian And Guinean Rainforests
      • Congo Rainforest
        • Fauna
        • Flora
      • Guinean Forest
        • Fauna
        • Flora
    • Other Interesting Facts About African Tropical Rainforests
  • Temperate Rainforests In Africa
    • Other Characteristics Of Temperate Forests
      • Rainfall
      • Temperature
      • Altitude
      • Fire resistance
      • Vegetation
    • Examples Of Temperate Rainforests Found Across Africa
  • Afromontane Rainforests: Characteristics And Examples
    • Afromontane Forests: Defining Features
      • Location
      • Rainfall
      • Temperature
      • Altitude
      • Vegetation
    • Afromontane Forests: The East African Montane Forest Ecoregion
      • Location
      • Altitude
      • Temperature and Rainfall
      • Fauna
  • Coastal Forests In Africa: Characteristics And Examples
    • Coastal Forests: Defining Characteristics
      • Temperature
      • Rainfall
  • Other Examples Forests Found In Africa
    • Sand Forests Of Southern Africa
    • Mangrove Forests Of Southern Africa
• Conclusion

A Guide To The Types Of Forests Found In Africa

A forest, according to Britannica, is a “complex ecological system in which trees are the dominant life-form.”

Although forests vary greatly in terms of plant and animal composition, certain factors remain the same.

For a tree-dominated forest to exist, the mean summer temperature must be above 50 °F, with a minimal annual rainfall of 8 inches.

There are three broad categories of forests found globally. These … Read the rest of the story.

5 Different Types of Forests in India

India is  brimming with natural resources, so much so that the British referred to it as the “Jewel of the Empire.” With the Tropic of Cancer running through the country, India has the perfect climate for forests, but what types of forests are located in India?

India’s forests are divided into five categories according to the amount of rainfall received and species composition. These forests are Tropical, Montane subtropical, Montane temperate, Subalpine, and Alpine. These five categories are further subdivided to make 16 groups of “Forest Types.”

Over the years, India’s forests have been divided into 202 different types and subtypes within the 16 groups. But what are some examples of these, and what are the characteristic features found in each?

Table of Contents

• An Overview To The Types Of Forests Found In India
• The Five Types Of Forests Found In India, Characteristics And Examples
  • Types Of Forests Found In India: Tropical Forests
    • Moist Tropical Forests In India
    • Wet Evergreen Forests In India
    • Semi-Evergreen Forests In India
    • Moist Deciduous Forests In India
    • Littoral And Swamp Forest In India
    • Dry Tropical Forests In India
    • Dry Deciduous Forests In India
    • Thorn Forests In India
    • Dry Evergreen Forests In India
  • Types Of Forests Found In India: Montane Subtropical Forests
    • Broadleaved Hill Forests In India
    • Pine Forests In India
    • Dry Evergreen Forests In India
  • Types Of Forests Found In India: Montane Temperate Forests
    • Wet Temperate Forests In India
    • Himalayan Moist Temperate Forests In India
    • Himalayan Dry Temperate Forests In India
  • Types Of Forests Found In India: Subalpine Forests
    • Subalpine Forests In India
  • Types Of Forests Found In India: Alpine Forests
    • Moist Alpine Scrub In India
    • Dry Alpine Scrub In India
• Conclusion

An Overview To The Types Of Forests Found In India

India is a large country situated on the Asian continent. India lies between North 8° 4′ and 37° 6′ latitude, and East 68° 7′ and 97° 25′ longitude.

With such a vast landmass, there is a lot of diversity in climate and geology, which, in turn, gives rise to a large variety of different flora and growth forms.

Some of … Read the rest of the story.

Which Animals Jump The Highest?

I recently visited a wildlife park and saw lots of different animals. All of them were unique in their own way. Some were very fast, and others could climb the most challenging terrain with ease. I saw everything from insects to lizards and even big animals like lions.

Then I saw the scariest thing. He or she might have been small compared to me, but that spider jumped in my direction at the speed of light. Waving my hands around, I looked like someone trying their hand at kung fu.

It jumped, and I screamed and ran my short little legs off. It intrigued me. When I got home, and I had to find out what animals jump the highest? I did some research, and this is what I found.

Animals like Pumas, Impalas, Springbok, and even dolphins are some of the world’s highest jumpers. One of the highest jumpers in comparison to its size is the jumping spider; this arachnid can leap 50 times the length of its own body. Another contender is the grasshopper, and they can jump up to 23 ft.

While most animals have had to adapt to their surroundings at one time or another, some would make even the most accomplished human athletes wish they had four legs or eight in some cases. These magnificent animals come from all over the animal kingdom and can shatter some of the world’s most formidable Olympic records without breaking a sweat.

However, it is essential to remember that some of these high jumpers might not be big mammals but can jump staggering heights compared to their body size.  I did a lot of research, and here is what I found. 

Animals that jump the highest from around the world are:

• The kangaroo rat
• The froghopper
• Pumas
• Kangaroo
• Grasshoppers
• Impalas
• Dolphins
• Jumping Spider
• Mountain Goats
• Fleas

Table of Contents

• The Kangaroo Rat
• The Froghopper
• The Puma
• Kangaroo
• Grasshoppers
• Impalas
• Dolphins
• Jumping Spider
• Mountain Goats   
• Fleas
• The Conclusion

The Kangaroo Rat

Despite its name and appearance, the kangaroo rat is not a mouse, rat, nor hamster. Its closest relative … Read the rest of the story.

Which Animals Have Camouflage?

My family and I were walking through our garden the other day, we caught sight of a leaf running away from us and up the trunk of a tree. The funny thing is, there was no wind blowing at the time. As we got closer to it, just hanging out on the tree branch, we realized it was an insect, a type of Mantis that has a camouflaged body that makes it look just like a brown leaf.

While investigating further, we found out that the insect was called a Ghost Mantis. It made me wonder about other animals that could camouflage themselves.

Research shows that different animals use mimicry and camouflage depending on three factors: behavior, hunting grounds, and blending in, e.g., a wrap-around spider uses its anatomy and behavior, predators use the environment they hunt in a while blending in with the habitat common for a chameleon. 

In my research, it was surprising to learn that animals use camouflage regardless of their environment. Terrestrial animals, aerial animals, aquatic animals, and arboreal animals all have some species that use mimicry or camouflage as it’s commonly known to survive.

If you love animals just as much as I do, you will find the information I have gathered just as compelling as I did. However, it is kind of scary to know some animals can be living in plain sight, maybe even in your back yard, and you would be none the wiser.

Table of Contents

• Mimicry vs. Camouflage
  • Mimicry
  • Camouflage
• Terrestrial Animals
  • Disruptive Coloration (Behavior and Anatomy): The Zebra
  • Active Camouflage (Environment): The Arctic Fox
  • Color Matching (Blending In): The Lion
• Aerial Animals
  • Disruptive Coloration (Behavior and Anatomy): The Horned Owl
  • Active Camouflage (Environment): Scarlet Tanager
  • Color Matching (Blending In): Butterflies
• Aquatic Animals
  • Disruptive Coloration (Behavior and Anatomy): The Cookie Cutter Shark
  • Active Camouflage (Environment): Squid and Octopi
  • Color Matching (Blending In): The Stonefish
• Arboreal Animals
  • Disruptive Coloration (Behavior and Anatomy): Leaf-Tailed Gecko
  • Active Camouflage (Environment): The Chameleon
  • Color Matching (Blending In): The Sloth
• In Conclusion

Mimicry vs. Camouflage

Well, you might be forgiven for believing … Read the rest of the story.

4 Different Types of Forests

Forests are more than just magical places that provide the setting for fiction novels and spooky stories, and they cover more than a third of the earth’s surface. With more than three trillion trees making up the world’s forests, myriad living creatures call the forests home. Much more than that, though, is the fact that forests serve many vital purposes.

It’s easy to get confused by the different forest types globally, though, because they occur in so many different regions.

Forests can be broken down into tropical, temperate, and boreal types, with various sub-types according to climate, geographic location, seasonality, and leafing. Tropical forests have warm temperatures all year, while temperate forests experience four seasons with high and low temperatures. Boreal forests exist in predominantly icy regions.

Forests are defined in many different ways, and there are specific characteristics that can be used to differentiate between the types of forests. Let’s look at the broader categories that forests fall into and what sets them apart.

Table of Contents

• The Forest Biome
  • Characteristics For Classification
    • Location, location, location!
    • Climate
    • Seasonality
    • Leafing
• The Different Types of Forests
  • 1. Tropical Forests
    • Evergreen
    • Seasonal
    • Dry
    • Montane
    • Tropical and Subtropical Coniferous
    • Subtropical
  • 2. Temperate Forests
    • Deciduous
    • Coniferous
  • 3. Boreal Forests
    • Climate
    • Precipitation
    • Growing Season
    • Flora
    • Fauna
  • 4. Other Types
    • Mangrove
      • Location
      • Man-Made Forests
      • Animal Life
• Bringing It All Together
  • Threats
• Conclusion

The Forest Biome

The term ‘forest’ has been used broadly to mean an area with a large number of trees, but it’s important to remember that a forest is not just a dense area of foliage. The word ‘biome’ is more accurate to describe forests because this takes into account that a forest is a naturally occurring community of fauna and flora – a functioning system of interconnected plants and animals that rely on each other for survival.

Characteristics For Classification

While there are many colloquial terms for forests, there are ways to differentiate between forest types by looking at their geographic location, climate, and what foliage grows there. As we will see, these factors all interlink. Here is a deeper explanation of how … Read the rest of the story.

Coyote vs. Mountain Lion

Coyotes and mountain lions have a lot of similarities. For example, they both hunt small prey like rabbits or deers. However, there are also many differences between the two species.

Coyotes and mountain lions are two different animals that live in very different habitats. Coyotes occupy the east coast of North America whereas mountain lions can be found on the west coast as well as throughout Canada and Mexico.

Read on to learn more about coyotes and mountain lions!

Coyotes are often confused with mountain lions. They may look similar, but they’re actually very different animals. Coyotes typically weigh less than 20 pounds, while a mountain lion weighs between 80-150 pounds.

And while coyote pelts have been mislabeled as “mountain lions” for years, there is no such thing; we only know what they look like because of their close resemblance to one another! Mountain lions prey on deer and other large mammals like elk or moose, but coyotes feed on rodents and rabbits instead.

Table of Contents

• What is a mountain lion?
• What is a coyote?
• Differences in Physical Characteristics
• Differences in Behavior
• Differences in Habitat
• Differences in Diet and Prey
• Differences in Life Span
• Conclusion

What is a mountain lion?

A mountain lion, also called a puma or cougar, is a large cat. It’s similar to a domestic cat, but it’s much bigger. In fact, mountain lions can grow up to 2 meters long and weigh 70 kilograms!

Mountain lions live in the northern part of the Americas and their habitat stretches from Canada all the way to Argentina.

What is a coyote?

A coyote also called a prairie wolf or brush wolf is a wild dog. It’s smaller than a mountain lion and it has pointier ears, long legs, and a bushier tail. Coyotes look like small wolves (but they aren’t related to wolves at all). They’re usually tawny brown with cream-colored bellies and darker fur on their back, tail, face, and ears.

Differences in Physical Characteristics

• One major difference between the mountain lion and the coyote is their size. The average mountain lion weighs 70 kg, whereas

… Read the rest of the story.

Coyote vs. Bobcat

You may think that coyotes and bobcats are the same animals because they have pointy, furry ears. However, there is a lot of difference between these two animals. Coyotes and bobcats are found all over North America and come in many sizes.

The coyote is the smaller of the two. It’s also more intelligent and can be found in just about any neighborhood. This makes it an easy target for hunters. The bobcat is larger but less aggressive than its cousin. They are more reclusive and prefer to hunt on their terms.

What do you think would happen if these two met? Who do you think would win? If you live in the U.S., you’ll likely see one of these two animals during the day!

They’re both very different and interesting creatures, but which is stronger? Let’s take a look.

Table of Contents

• Coyote
  • Interesting Facts of Coyotes
• Bobcat
  • Interesting Facts on Bobcat
• Similarities Between Bobcats and Coyotes
• Bobcat vs. Coyote: Who will win the fight?
  • Are Coyotes Dangerous?
  • Do Bobcats Attack Humans?
• Final Thoughts

Coyote

Coyote is a member of the Canidae family, which includes wolves, jackals, foxes, and dogs. Coyotes are native to North America. Coyote is not the only member of the Canidae family that lives in North America.

There are 19 subspecies of coyotes. They live in grasslands, forests, mountains, and deserts.

Coyotes can survive anywhere where there is enough food and shelter for their family groups, called packs. A pack usually comprises a male parent, a female parent, and their young pups. Coyotes are most active at sunrise and sunset.

At night, they sleep in dens made from hollow trees or underground caves.

Interesting Facts of Coyotes

Coyotes are lean, quick animals that stand about 1 foot tall at the shoulder and measure 2-4 feet long from nose to tail. Their fur is usually yellowish-brown with reddish tints, but it can also be gray or white in northern populations. Coyotes shed their winter coats in late spring.

Coyotes can run up to 40 miles per hour for several miles, jump over 3 feet high, and … Read the rest of the story.

15 Animals Similar to Weasels

There are few animals as ferocious as the weasel. While small in stature, these mammals are very active predators that hunt rodents such as rabbits and mice, as well as birds and frogs. A weasel may consume up to 40% of its body weight per day.

Although weasels hunt day or night, they are active mostly during the hours of dawn and dusk. With a home range of 10 to 30 acres, weasels are solitary and will defend their territory from invaders, except during the breeding season when they will seek out a mate.

Table of Contents

• Where do Weasels Live?
• How Big Are Weasels?
• 1. Stoat
• 2. Mink
• 3. Polecat
• 4. European Badger
• 5. Honey Badger
• 6. Wolverine
• 7. Fisher
• 8. Sable
• 9. Ferret
• 10. North American River Otter
• 11. Sea Otter
• 12. Skunk
• 13. Zorilla
• 14. Tayra
• 15. Greater Grison

Where do Weasels Live?

The weasel can be found all over the world, from North America down to South America, throughout Europe, North Africa, and Asia. They do not inhabit Australia, sub-Saharan Africa, or India. Weasels may live in an abandoned burrow or make a nest under rocks or in a hollow log.

They live in varied habitats from forests and grasslands to sand dunes and moors. In the wild, a weasel may live for up to two to three years.

How Big Are Weasels?

Compact with long, slender bodies and short legs, weasels are generally about six to 10 inches long with their tails being about a quarter of their length. Males weigh in at an average of about seven ounces and are larger than females, who weigh a little more than half that.

Weasels usually have red, brown, or gray coats with white bellies, although most species will turn all white in the winter. They do not hibernate and will be active all year long.

In the family Mustelidae, weasels and their relatives are a very successful and voracious group. Here are 15 other animals similar to the weasel.

1. Stoat

The weasel’s closest relative is probably the stoat, or ermine, being slightly larger at … Read the rest of the story.