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Red Rock Canyon NCA -
Wildlife:
Mammals in Red Rock Canyon
The Red Rock Canyon may seem rugged and desolate at first glance, but a closer look reveals an area teeming
with wildlife. The desert often brings to mind snakes and lizards, but mammals too, inhabit these lands. In fact,
over 45 species of mammals occur in the Red Rock Canyon. The presence of cool temperatures,
perennial water
and a variety of plant species in the sandstone canyons provide escape from desert heat and aridity, making the
conservation area a suitable habitat for wildlife.
Desert mammals can be divided into four broad categories: the carnivores (meat eaters), small and large
herbivores (plant eaters), and insectivores (insect eaters). All must conform to specific behavioral traits
to survive in such arid lands. Most desert mammals are nocturnal, which means active during the night. Temperatures
are lower and humidity is higher then and the animal loses less water through perspiration and breathing. Besides
being nocturnal, many adopt other water-saving habits as well. Let's look at some of the ways that mammals have
adapted to survive in this harsh desert environment.
Carnivores
Carnivores are predators and chiefly eat meat, although some will consume plants. They will drink water when it ...
Small Herbivores
This group includes the rodents, rabbits and hares. As herbivores, they primarily eat plants, although some will
supplement their diet with ...
Large Herbivores
Mule deer, desert bighorn sheep and burros can also be found within the conservation area. Large herbivores derive
some moisture from ...
Insectivores
This group includes bats and shrews and primarily consumes insects. Bats are separated from all other mammals by
possessing the power of true flight. To escape the heat and avoid competition with birds, they are active only at
night. Seldom using their vision, ...
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