Hobbies And Interests

Carnivores in the Taiga Biome

The taiga, or boreal forest, is a cold, snowy biome that ranges across the northern parts of North America and Eurasia, south of the tundra and north of grasslands and deciduous forests. The taiga consists mainly of coniferous trees, mosses and lichens. A number of herbivores inhabit this biome, such as elk, deer, porcupines and various small rodents. These creatures provide food for the handful of carnivores that make their home on the taiga.
  1. Bobcat

    • The bobcat (Felis rufus) lives in North American taiga forests, mountains and swamps. Although this feline is small -- around 2 feet long and 20 pounds -- its sharp teeth and claws, and its ability to run up to 30 miles per hour, make it a fearsome predator. The bobcat sneaks up on prey such as rodents and game birds; only jackrabbits and similarly swift animals can outrun this cat.

    Lynx

    • The northern lynx (Lynx canadensis) is 2 to 4 feet in length, and can weigh up to 45 pounds. Despite its relatively small size, it hunts prey as large as caribou, sheep and deer on the North American taiga, though it mostly preys on snowshoe hares and the occasional vole. The lynx has excellent night vision, and fur-covered pads that allow it to approach its prey quietly in the snow. Being a slow runner, it ambushes its prey instead of chasing it.

    Gray Wolf

    • Gray wolves (Canis lupus) inhabit the cold Siberian taiga. The largest canine in the wild, a full-grown gray wolf stands 3 feet at the shoulder and can weigh up to 175 pounds. The wolves' thick, woolly fur insulates them against the taiga's cold, while their claws and pads give them traction in the snow. Their stamina, keen senses and powerful jaws help them run down, stalk or flush prey such as caribou, moose and other large herbivores.

    Red Fox

    • The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is a solitary creature that hunts on the North American and European taigas. It preys on hares, rabbits and other small animals. The red fox is intelligent, and adapts readily to a variety of habitats. During the day, it will rest in the burrows of other creatures instead of building its own shelter. The red fox is 2 to 3 feet in length, and typically weighs about 12 pounds.

    Wolverine

    • The wolverine (Gulo luscus) resembles a small bear, but is actually a member of the weasel family. It grows to be about 45 pounds. These muscular creatures are well suited to the taiga environment; their powerful jaws can tear through frozen meat. They hunt rodents, reptiles, birds and fish in the North American taiga.


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