Casey Anderson

Why Do Some Mountain Lions Have Shortened Ears? In the rugged landscapes of the northern Rockies and high plains, many mountain lions develop a distinct look—ears that appear rounded or shortened. This isn’t a genetic trait but a battle scar from enduring brutal winters. Frostbite is the culprit. Exposed to extreme cold, relentless winds, and moisture, the delicate tissue at the tips of their ears can freeze, die off, and eventually fall away. Over time, this gives many lions in colder regions that telltale blunted-ear appearance. It’s especially common in places like Montana, Wyoming, and parts of Canada, where winter temperatures plummet and survival demands resilience. While scars from battles with prey or rivals often tell a lion’s story, those frostbitten ears are a silent testament to something even more unforgiving—the raw power of winter in the northern wilds. Have you ever noticed this trait in mountain lions from cold regions? Let me know in the comments!

Picture this: you’re out enjoying the peace and quiet of the forest, maybe even embracing the thrill of a backcountry outhouse. Suddenly, you catch a rustle outside. And who decides to investigate? A very curious black bear. Seems like our furry friend didn’t get the memo that outhouses are “for humans only.” As it turns out, even a bear wants to know what these little wooden boxes are all about. Maybe it’s the scent of leftovers from last night’s camp dinner, or maybe this bear is just… curious about where all the humans seem to keep disappearing. Either way, it strolls up, sniffs around the door, and gives a good, investigative push with its nose. Does a bear poop in the woods? Usually, yes. But today, it’s busy checking out the cozy amenities, probably wondering if it should upgrade its usual spot to something with a roof and walls. Just be glad it’s only curious – or you might have to negotiate with a bear for bathroom rights! #wildlife #blackbear #bear

Clever Coyotes: A Daring Dance with Danger. In the wild, survival often hinges on cunning and cooperation, and nowhere is this more evident than in the interactions between coyotes and grizzly bears. Today, we witnessed an incredible display of teamwork and strategy from a pack of coyotes. Here’s the scene: A beautiful grizzly was feasting on a fresh carcass, its powerful presence a formidable barrier. But hunger drives bold plans, especially in the clever minds of coyotes. Instead of backing down, they teamed up for an audacious heist. With meticulous coordination, the coyotes executed their plan. While one coyote drew the grizzly’s attention, darting within reach of its mighty paws, the others approached from different angles. This distraction allowed a swift, brave member of the pack to slip in and snatch a much-needed morsel from the carcass. This risky endeavor was not about confrontation but about survival and the smart use of their collective wits. The grizzly, though momentarily distracted, continued its meal, allowing the coyotes a fleeting but victorious escape with their prize. Such interactions remind us of the complex dynamics in nature, where animals use intelligence and teamwork to overcome the odds. In the wild, every day is a lesson in adaptability and courage. #wildlife #bear #grizzlybear #coyote #bears #spring