Tag / Mammals

 The word Javelina comes from the Spanish word “javelin”  meaning spear, a reference to their long, pointed canine teeth. Although they look like wild pigs they are not a member of that family but belong to the peckary family. The Javelina of Arizona are desert-dwellers who migrated up from South America. They forage for food and prefer prickly pear cactus, insects and other vegetation. They live in social groups of 6 to 12. During the heat of the day they seek shade and tend to be active in the morning and evening hours.  They can be agressive toward dogs and humans but can be observed quite safely at a distance. In Sedona, Arizona the town has colourful Javelina statues erected in honour of their desert dwelling residents.

        

                      

Enjoy!

~Sharon

 

 

 

 

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Another fall day and a drive out to the Whiteshell Provincial Park.  Once again I happened upon an otter family of three.  Every time I come across an otter or otters they always will swim a little in my direction, pop their heads up and take a look.  As usual, their curious nature allowed for this photo before they swam a little farther down the river.  I am always thrilled to see these playful animals in their natural environment.

Below: A river otter from an early spring trip, once again taking a look.

Enjoy!

~Sharon

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Mule deer are found in the Western portion of North America – the Rocky Mountain regions and get their name from their large “mule like” ears.  They are more grey in colour than their cousin the White Tailed Deer. The mule deer’s tail is black-tipped, whereas the whitetail’s is not. Mule deer forage and mate in the fall as do others in the deer family with fawns being born in the spring.   Humans and automobiles top the list of enemies but their natural enemies would be mountain lions, coyotes and also bears.  They are always alert and rely on speed to avoid harm.  These photos were taken in Alberta near Jasper.

Enjoy!

~Sharon

 

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