Hangin' with Sylvestermouse and Her Favorite Animals
Awesome Animals
So many beautiful animals are endangered or threatened. It is quite sad to realize that some of the animals featured here are very close to extinction.
Our world will certainly be a drearier place without them.
Other animals in this article are not threatened. They just stand out for other reasons like being very intelligent or really cute.
Walk with me down this path as we take a closer look at their lovely little faces and their lifestyles.
Each introduction paragraph is followed by a link to more information.
Authorship: Sylvestermouse
Definitions
Threatened ~ are vulnerable to extinction in the near future
Endangered ~ at risk of becoming extinct because it is either few in numbers, or threatened by changing environmental or predation parameters
Critically Endangered ~ have an extremely high risk of becoming extinct in the wild or completely extinct in the immediate future
Luna Moth ~ Endangered
If you have never seen a Luna Moth, you have really missed a treat. These large, beautiful moths live very short lives. They only fly when it is dark, so when you happen upon one, be sure to slow down and take a close look. There is so much to see. Be sure to look at his long tail, discover for yourself why he is called a Luna Moth and compare him to the size of your hand. Unless you touch him, he will be perfectly content to let you gaze upon his beauty.
Okay, here's a hint: What does Luna mean? Look at his lower wings. What do you see? I personally think they look more like eyes than moons but that is still the origin of the name Luna Moth.
- Hangin' With the Luna Moth
Have you ever seen a Luna Moth? See if you can spot him in the photo, plus discover lots of interesting facts about the life of a Luna Moth.
The Snowshoe Hare
Yes, you are right, I selected the Snowshoe Hare mainly because she is beautiful and harms no one. She simply adds beauty to the landscape and is an absolute delight.
I am always so impressed with the natural camouflage and adaptability to the environment.
Did you know the Showshoe Hare changes color?
For more information on why she is called a Snowshoe Hare, visit the link below.
- Amazing Wild Animals: Snowshoe Hare
Do you know the difference in a hare and a rabbit? Find that answer and more amazing photos and facts about the Snowshoe Hare on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Hedgehogs
If you live in the right place and you want an unusual pet, the Hedgehog could be a great choice. If you need pest control in your garden, the Hedgehog just may be your answer. If you want to meet Punxsutawney Phil's rival or if you just want to see a really funny and cute video, you will want to read Hangin' with Hedgehogs.
- Amazing Wild Animals: Hedgehogs
Don't we all need a smile to start our day? You can always defend on a Hedgehog to make you smile! Find out more about Hedgehogs and see Hedgehog photos on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Meerkats
Who doesn't love Meerkats! Thanks to a very popular series on tv, we all know more about Meerkats. Long before Meerkat Manor, my daughter was crazy about these little guys. Anytime I have ever taken a picture of a Meerkat, I would swear the little fellow posed for his snapshot. More than likely the one I am photographing is the families guard for the day and is trying to decide if I am a potential predator.
- Amazing Wild Animals: Meerkats
We all know how adorable Meerkats are to watch. Join me here to learn the facts about Meerkats. You will also find photos of Meerkats from my own personal scrapbook on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Mouse Lemurs ~ Endangered
Did you know the Latin word lemures means "ghost." It is true and there are plenty of reasons why the natives of Madagascar would think these little guys resemble ghosts. Because of their eyes, they have a rather "spooky" appearance that can be haunting. Since they are nocturnal, they are mostly active at night and they move from limb to limb of the trees and rarely have need to touch the ground.
What do you think? Do you think they look "ghostly?"
- Hangin' With Mouse Lemurs
Facts and photos about the little Mouse Lemur on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
The Red Panda ~ Endangered
I don't even want to think about our world being without this beautiful, serene little baby! In case you can't tell, this really is one of my favorite animals. Not only are they pretty, but they just don't do anything offensive. They are just peaceful creatures who help make earth a living paradise.
- Hangin' With A Red Panda
The Red Panda is such a pretty little animal and is sadly endangered. Join me to discover more about the Red Panda and see some fabulous photos of this precious creature on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
The Arctic Fox ~ Endangered in Scandinavia only
Survivor. That is the best one word description for an Arctic Fox. They are considered nomadic because they will move from place to place and live where they can find food. Their beautiful coats change colors with the seasons in order to blend in with their surroundings and they can endure the harsh elements of the Arctic
Like so many Arctic inhabitants, the Arctic Fox is among the animals most affected by the dramatic changes in the Arctic due to climate change.
- Amazing Wild Animals: Arctic Fox
Interesting facts and beautiful photos of the Arctic Fox on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Poison Dart Frogs ~ Critically Endangered
Some of the most beautiful creatures in the world can also be some of the most deadly. Poison Dart Frogs are stunningly gorgeous with their lovely natural mix of colors. In the wild, these frogs are considered one of the most dangerous animals on earth. But are they all really dangerous? You might be surprised at what you can learn about Poison Dart Frogs in the article below. Just click on the link.
- Amazing Wild Animals: Poison Dart Frogs
The facts about Poison Dart Frogs are almost as interesting and impressive as their fabulously bright and unique coloring. Sadly, many of these beautiful creatures are critically endangered. For more information on the Poison Dart Frogs visit Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Kangaroo Rats ~ One Species is Endangered
Not all species of the Kangaroo Rat are endangered, but the Giant Kangaroo Rat is endangered. I chose to write about the Kangaroo Rat because he is unique in so many ways. In the article linked below, you can discover what makes this little fellow so unique, why he is called a "Kangaroo" Rat and see an adorable video of one hopping around.
- Hangin' with Kangaroo Rats
Fascinating facts about Kangaroo Rats and awesome photos. Don't you wonder why they are named Kangaroo Rats? Join me on Amazing Wild Animals to read all about them. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Vampire Bats
I know. I get it. No one wants to be bitten by a Vampire Bat; or do you?
Did you know these little suckers could cure you of a fever or plague?
It is very sad that people wish to cast Vampire Bats into a lot that should be feared. I will grant you, it is a wee bit gross to consider that they drink blood to live, but did you know that they only drink about 2 tablespoons before they have had their fill? That is hardly enough to drain you of your own lifeblood. I am not suggesting that you run out and "feed" the little guys because their bites, like dog bites, can cause infections, but I am suggesting that you don't have to fear them like you would a venomous snake or a man-eating tiger.
- Amazing Wild Animals: Vampire Bats
Vampire Bats are frequently misunderstood and feared. Check out the real facts on Vampire Bats on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Key Deer ~ Endangered
If ever there was an animal that could win your heart with just one look, it would be this little Key Deer. It is easy to understand why they are also called Toy Deer. When they are full grown, they are no bigger than a large bred dog. Actually, with a average weight of about 60 lbs, most large bred dogs easily outweigh them. They are gentle, docile creatures that desperately need our help to survive.
Photo by Andy Newman and published on Newmanpr.com
- Hangin' with Key Deer
The little Key Deer is simply endearing. Find out facts about the Key Deer here and also enjoy the photos provided for your viewing pleasure on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Gray Wolves ~ Endangered in Most of the US
Would you believe these wolves are all siblings? Can you guess how many are males?
Wolves travel in packs that consist of their own family members. Pups are born blind and defenseless. The pack cares for the pups until they mature at about 10 months of age. Gray wolves will fight to the death in order to protect their family members.
Follow me to Hangin' with Gray Wolves to find out more about these loyal and dedicated "totally awesome" wolves.
- Hangin' with Gray Wolves
Gray Wolves are mesmerizing! Beautiful photos and facts about the Gray Wolf provided in this article.
Grizzly Bears ~ Threatened in the Contiguous US and Endangered in Parts of Canada
Grizzly Bears have always evoked fear, but now a different kind of fear permeates the air, the fear of losing them forever.
We may ask ourselves, how could something so big and powerful be totally annihilated, but we only have to consider the dinosaurs to know that answer.
These big and beautiful beasts could easily become a part of the past as well.
- Hangin' with Grizzly Bears
Grizzly Bears are beautiful, but can be quite dangerous. Grizzly Bear facts and photos shared in this article.
Cheetahs ~ Threatened
Some animals are so glorious, mankind lusts for their beauty! Such is the case of the beautiful Cheetah. Hunted and captured to the point of crisis, these magnificent creations are now listed as an endangered species.
The Cheetah is the smallest of the Big Cat family. Some researchers do not even consider them Big Cats even thought most of us would put them in this category.
A stunning presence, a fabulous history and several unique characteristics, place this lovely creature on my list of favorite animals.
- Hangin' With Cheetahs
Cheetahs are sleek, beautiful animals which are known for being the fastest land animal. You can read more facts about the Cheetah here, as well as seeing some beautiful photos of Cheetahs on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Raccoons
Everybody loves an adorable, friendly face! These little guys and dolls always have the sweetest expressions. They look so cuddly and furry, but in fact, they have sharp little claws and rough, course hair.
Their mischievous behavior and playful antics can be entertaining for hours.
Did you know a Raccoon growls? I have heard them! They really do growl and believe me, just like a dog's growl, this small animal can evoke a little fear. Although, I must admit, I have only heard them growl at each other, not at me.
- Hangin' With Raccoons
Raccoons are truly a delight to watch. Join me here as I share photos and real facts about raccoons.
The Harp Seal ~ Threatened
These babies have won hearts around the world. In an effort to save the Harp Seals, many documentaries have been produced and viewed on TV, thus, more of us are familiar with the plight of the Harp Seal, but what else do you know about these pretty little babies?
Did you know they are ear-less? Check out link below for more interesting facts about the Harp Seal.
- Hangin' with Harp Seals
Harp seal pups are so adorably precious. Join me and discover Harp Seal facts and photos on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Pink Dolphins
Pink Bottlenose Dolphins are very rare!
According to NOAA, there have only been 14 recorded sightings of albino Bottlenose Dolphins throughout the world, since the first reported sighting in 1962.
The beauty in this photo can personally be seen in Lake Charles, Louisiana, but you can read all about her in the article below.
- Amazing Wild Animals: Pink Dolphins
Pink Dolphins may be rare, but they really do exist. Join me here to discover the real facts about Pink Dolphins and see lots of photos too on Amazing Wild Animals. (See Link at the Bottom of This Article)
Do Come Back and See Me Sometime
I will continue to investigate different animals in our world and I will enjoy writing about what I find. Check back here occasionally to see what I have added to the list of "Favorite Animals"
Amazing Wild Animals
Most of the animals featured here today can be found on Amazing Wild Animals.
To join me there to read more interesting facts and see more photos of these gorgeous creatures, simply click here.
I Love Them All!
Were You Able to Choose a Favorite?
Moderated by Sylvestermouse
UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, ALL PHOTOS ARE THE EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF SYLVESTERMOUSE. Please do not copy or reproduce in any way without written permission from Sylvestermouse.
© 2009 Cynthia Sylvestermouse