Desert Mammals
Animals classified as mammals have mammary glands in the females that provide milk for the young, hair or fur, and warm-blooded bodies. The brain regulates the endothermic and circulatory systems. There are four broad categories of desert mammals: carnivores (meat eaters), large and small herbivores (plant eaters), and insectivores (insect eaters). All animals must exhibit certain behavioral traits to survive in such arid places. Most desert mammals are nocturnal, which means they are active at night. During this time, the temperature is lower, and the humidity is higher, which causes the animals to lose less water. Aside from being nocturnal, many adopt other water-saving habits. Mojave and related ecologies are home to many species of mammals. All these species have adapted to the harsh desert climate and evolved unique strategies to conserve water.
These are just a few of many species of mammals living in the Mojave and related ecologies.
American Badger
Bighorn Sheep
Black-tailed Jackrabbit
Bobcat
Coyote
Desert Cottontail
Desert Kangaroo Rat
Kit Fox
Merriam's Kangaroo Rat
Mountain Lion
Mule Deer
Ringtail
Round-tailed Ground Squirrel
White-tailed Antelope Squirrel
Wild Horse
Wild Burro
Black-tailed jackrabbit
Mule deer
Mountain lion
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Wildlife Watching * Successful wildlife viewing requires a few simple tricks. Click here to find out what they are. |
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The Desert Food Chain * Everything has its niche. Who eats what, and what eats who in the desert? Click here to find out what more. |
