Where Do Coyotes Live and Sleep?

The highly intelligent, scrappy Coyote lives by the ethos “Adapt or Die.” These amazing little creatures have proven exceptionally adaptable in the places they choose to live and sleep and, as such, have thrived in a time when many species are endangered and threatened with extinction.

Coyotes live in open plains, prairies, deserts, forests, woodlands, coastlines, and even cities. Coyotes can be found in Mexico, Canada, the USA, and Central America. Coyotes sleep outside in semi-protected shelters unless caring for pups. When caring for puppies, Coyotes live and sleep in dens.

Unlike the unlucky Wile E. Coyote of the Looney Tunes, Coyotes have shown remarkable resilience to changing landscapes and hostile environments. Where other animals have been driven out and forced into a fight for survival; Coyotes have moved in and not only survived but thrived in wildly diverse geographic locations and environments.

Table of Contents

Wild Coyote Habitats

Coyote Subspecies Live in Different Geographical Areas

Where Do Coyotes Sleep in the Wild?

Do Puppies Change Where Coyotes Live and Sleep?

The Urban Migration of Coyotes

Habitat Selection of Urban Coyotes

Territory Size of Urban Coyotes

The Sleeping Arrangements of City Living Coyotes

Conclusion

Wild Coyote Habitats

Wild Coyotes prefer open or lightly wooded areas and are frequent occupants in grasslands (i.e., prairies and open plains) and deserts.

However, Coyotes have proven to be versatile and highly adaptable hunters. Thus, Coyotes have successfully extended their territories into forests, woodlands, and coastlines.

Coyotes living in mountainous regions tend to be slightly bigger, with heavier frames than the traditional desert-dwelling coyotes, characterized by their slim builds and ropey musculature.

(Source: Nature Works; Brittanica)

Coyote Subspecies Live in Different Geographical Areas

When asked to picture a Coyote, most people conjure up a picture of a lean, rangy dog-like animal skittering furtively along the desert plains in search of a meal. Although the Coyote’s original habitat was the wide-open plains of the desert, this is no longer the only place Coyotes live.

Today the nineteen Coyote subspecies can be found throughout Central America, Mexico, the United States of America, and Canada.

(Source: … Read the rest of the story.

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10 Different Types of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are venomous serpents recognized by their tail end rattle that produces a whirring sound when the tail is rapidly shaken; this is a threat stance to warn prey and ward off predators.

Rattlesnakes belong to the Viper family (Viperidae). The Viperidae family is divided into three subfamilies: Viperinae, Crotalinae, and Azemiopinae. The Rattlesnake species are divided into the Crotalus and Sistrurus of the subfamily of Crotalinae, commonly referred to as Pit Vipers.

All Rattlesnakes are indigenous to the Americas and range from southern Canada to Mexico and Argentina and throughout the United States (US). In the US, the most predominant snakebites are from Rattlesnakes, but they only bite if provoked.

Table of Contents

Types of Rattlesnakes

Crotalinae

Crotalus

Crotalus Adamanteus (Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes)

Crotalus Atrox (Western Diamondback / Texas Diamondback)

Crotalus Cerastes (The Sidewinder / Horned Rattlesnake)

Crotalus Durissus (South American Rattlesnake)

Crotalus Horridus (The Timber Rattlesnake)

Crotalus Viridis (Prairie Rattlesnake)

Sistrurus

Sistrurus Miliarius (Pygmy Rattlesnake)

Sistrurus Catenatus (Massasauga)

Sistrurus Tergeminus (Western Massasauga)

Conclusion

Types of Rattlesnakes

There are 36 species of rattlesnakes; there are about 60 to 75 subspecies, all Rattlesnakes are Vipers. The Viper or Viperidae genus is divided into three main divisions- Viperinae, Crotalinae, and Azemiopinae. Rattlesnakes belong to the Crotalinae family.

Crotalinae

The rattlesnakes belong to the Crotalinae family, commonly referred to as Pit Vipers. They are classed according to two heat-detecting organs positioned on their face below their nostrils. These are the only genus to possess these organs, giving them a superior advantage as a predator.

These pits or sacs sense thermal radiation emitted from a warm-blooded animal. The detection range is relatively limited, at about 1 foot. Infrared light passes through tiny pin-hole openings that lead to a membrane with specialized tissues cells that warm and alert the Viperid of the presence of prey.

The membrane comprises an acute arrangement of heat-sensitive receptors that can detect changes in temperatures of 32.0054 °F or less within its range. These pits give the Viperids of the Crotalinae division a sixth sense.

Crotalinae are also characterized by their triangular head, shaped due to the developed venomous … Read the rest of the story.

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4 Different Types of Snakes

There are many different types of snakes. They can be found all over the world, in the wild or kept as pets. These animals have been around on this planet for much longer than humans, and they are fascinating.

Whether you’re just curious or are looking to own one of these precious animals, this article contains all the information you may need on these four popular types of snakes.

Table of Contents

1. Python

Appearance

Habitat

Life Expectancy

Diets

Movement

Hunting

Reproduction

Most Common Species

2. Cobras

Appearance

Habitat

Life Expectancy

Diet

Behavior

Reproduction

Hunting

Threats and Enemies

Cobra Bite

3. Vipers

Appearance

Head Shape

Fangs

Habitat

Behavior

Diet

Hunting

Reproduction

Viper Bite

Effects of a Viper Bite

4. Anacondas

Appearance

Habitat

Behavior

Diet

Hunting

Reproduction

Conclusion

1. Python

The Pythonidae family includes some of the largest snakes in the world. There are currently 41 species in the family, and they live across three continents and are considered to be Old World snakes.

These snakes are constrictors, much like the boa constrictor.

Appearance

The coloring and size of a python vary from one species of python to another. The coloration and patterning can range from elaborately patterned scales to solid colors such as brown or green. This is dependent on their habitats and the need for camouflage.

Habitat

Pythons like warm, rainy regions like those found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Rain forests are home to many species, but pythons may also be found in grasslands, woods, marshes, rocky outcrops, dunes, and shrubs. Depending on the species, pythons seek refuge in hollows, beneath rocks, abandoned animal burrows, and tree branches.

One species of python has found its home in the Western Hemisphere, despite being native to the Old World. The Burmese python is an invasive species that has been identified in the Florida Everglades, where it is successfully reproducing.

Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of a python is around 25 years. The San Diego Zoo has said that their maximum life expectancy is 35 years of age.

Diets

Pythons eat a variety of foods according to their size. Rodents, lizards, … Read the rest of the story.

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Squirrel vs Rat

Family time in my household can sometimes lead to the development of some really interesting debates. I am often tasked with generating the research—the latest being on the topic Squirrel vs Rat.

Squirrels and rats are rodents that belong to the distinct family called Rodentia. They both have specialized teeth for gnawing. They are both intelligent species. Other than this, they have very little in common concerning behavior, lifespan, and reproduction.

Let’s explore the differences shared between Squirrels and Rats. What happens if a squirrel and a rat are in a fight? Which would be the most suitable choice as a pet? Let us have a deeper look at finding these answers.

Table of Contents

Differences Between Squirrels and Rats

Appearance

Nesting Habits

Diurnal or Nocturnal

Reproductive Habits

Lifespan

Hibernation Patterns

Communication

Diet

Squirrel vs. Rat – Which One is Stronger?

Can Squirrels be Kept as Pets?

Type of Squirrels that are Often Kept as Pets

Can Rats Be Kept as Pets?

Rats that are Often Kept as Pets

Conclusion

Differences Between Squirrels and Rats

While squirrels and rats share similar mental and physical characteristics, their behaviors and life cycles are completely different.

Appearance

Squirrels are larger than rats. They also have thick, bushy tails. Rats, on the other hand, are hairless and thin.

Nesting Habits

Squirrels are more likely to build their nests in trees outside. Rats prefer dark places, generally attics or in cupboards.

Diurnal or Nocturnal

While squirrels are diurnal, this means that they are mostly active during the day. Rats, on the other hand, are nocturnal. They are mostly active at night.

So if you hear any noises in the attic at night, it is highly unlikely that it is a squirrel.  It could be that you are dealing with a rat. Rats possess poor eyesight, and they are largely dependant on their whiskers for direction.

Squirrels possess excellent daytime vision, called peripheral vision.  They hunt for food during the day, protecting themselves from their predators.

Reproductive Habits

There is a distinct difference between the reproductive habits of squirrels and rats.  Squirrels usually mate twice a … Read the rest of the story.

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10 Different Types of Water Snakes

Water snakes are found in and around water bodies or wetlands in the United States.  But just how do you identify them, and how many types of water snakes are there?

Water snakes are nonvenomous harmless native snakes that live in wetlands. There are ten species of water snakes listed in the United States. They are Brown water snake, Concho, Diamondback, Florida Green, Harter’s, Mississippi Green, Plain-bellied, Southern, Northern, and Salt Marsh water snakes.

Water snakes are found abundantly in the US, living near rivers, marshlands, and lakes.  Here we discuss everything you need to know about water snakes and how to identify them when encountering one.

Table of Contents

10 Types of Water Snakes

Brown Water Snake – Nerodia taxispilota  

Saltmarsh Water Snake – Nerodia clarkii

Florida Green Water Snake – Nerodia floridana

Southern Water Snake – Nerodia fasciata

Concho water snake – Nerodia paucimaculata     

Diamondback water snake – Nerodia rhombifer   

Harter’s Water Snake / Brazos River Snake – Nerodia harteri

Mississippi Green water snake – Nerodia cyclopion  

Plain-bellied water snake – Nerodia erythrogaster

Northern water snake – Nerodia sipedon 

Conclusion

10 Types of Water Snakes

The most frequently encountered and most widespread snakes in the United States are Garter snakes and Water snakes.

Water snakes are of the subfamily Natricinae and are closely related to Garter snakes. Here listed are the ten species of water snakes.

Brown water snake – Nerodia taxispilota 

Concho water snake – Nerodia paucimaculata   

Diamondback water snake – Nerodia rhombifer 

Florida Green water snake – Nerodia floridana 

Harter’s water snake / Brazos River snake – Nerodia harteri

Mississippi Green water snake – Nerodia cyclopion  

Plain-bellied water snake – Nerodia erythrogaster (with four subspecies)

Southern water snake – Nerodia fasciata (with three subspecies)

Northern water snake – Nerodia sipedon (with four subspecies)

Salt Marsh water snake – Nerodia clarkii (with three subspecies) 

Water Snakes

Water snakes are non-venomous snakes found in the US that typically live around water.  Sometimes water snakes are confused with cottonmouths/water moccasin snakes.  Water moccasins are dangerous with a venomous bite.  People unable to tell the two species apart often kill … Read the rest of the story.

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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

Bogert’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis bogerti

Santa Cruz Garter Snake – Thamnophis atratus 

Butler’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis butleri

Common Garter Snake – Thamnophis sirtalis 

Short-headed Garter Snake – Thamnophis brachystoma 

Conant’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis conanti

Golden-headed Garter Snake – Thamnophis chrysocephalus

Black-necked Garter Snake – Thamnophis cyrtopsis

Western Terrestrial Garter Snake – Thamnophis elegans

Sierra Garter Snake – Thamnophis couchii 

Mexican Garter Snake – Thamnophis eques

Exiled Garter Snake – Thamnophis exsul

Mexican Wandering Garter Snake – Thamnophis errans 

Giant Garter Snake – Thamnophis gigas

Mesoamerican Highlands Garter Snake – Thamnophis fulvus 

Godman’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis godmani

Sumichrast’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis sumichrasti  

Two-striped Garter Snake – Thamnophis hammondii

Checkered Garter Snake – Thamnophis marcianus

Liner’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis lineri

Plains Garter Snake – Thamnophis radix

Madrean Narrow-headed Garter Snake – Thamnophis unilabialis 

Tamaulipan Montane Garter Snake – Thamnophis mendax

Mexican Alpine Blotched Garter Snake – Thamnophis scalaris 

Southern Durango Spotted Garter Snake – Thamnophis nigronuchalis

Tepalcatepec Valley Garter Snake – Thamnophis postremus

Northwestern Garter Snake – Thamnophis ordinoides

Western Ribbon Snake – Thamnophis proximus

Rossman’s Garter Snake – Thamnophis rossmani

Eastern Ribbon Snake – Thamnophis sauritus

Mesa Central Blotched Garter Snake – Thamnophis scaliger

Narrow-headed Garter Snake – Thamnophis rufipunctatus 

Mexican Pacific Lowlands Garter Snake – Thamnophis validus

Mexican Black-bellied Garter Snake – Thamnophis melanogaster

Yellow-throated Garter Snake – Thamnophis pulchrilatus 

The Garter Snake, the Most Common Type
… Read the rest of the story.

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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.

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