Hangin' with Sylvestermouse and Her Favorite Animals

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

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.


Image from: www.sierrapotomac.org/.../LunaMoth_050911.htm

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. For more information on why she is called a Snowshoe Hare, visit the link below.


Image from: www.cloudphotographyltd.com/7winter.html

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.


Image from: www.wallpaperbase.com/animals-hedgehog.shtml

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.


Image from Photo Album of Sylvestermouse

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?"


Image from: photos.wildmadagascar.org

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.


Image from: http://www.wildlifearchives.com/images/red-panda.jpg

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.


Image from: justanimal.blogspot.com

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 considerd 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.


Image from: animals.nationalgeographic.com

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.


Image from: abcnews.go.com

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 life blood. 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.


Image from: newscientist.com

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

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.


Image from Exzooberance magazine published by the Memphis Zoo

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.

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.

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.

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 earless? Check out link below for more interesting facts about the Harp Seal.


Image from: kids.nationalgeographic.com

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"






image of Memphis Zoo Baby Giraffe & Mother from: www.zooborns.typepad.com/zooborns/giraffe/page/2/

see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!

Moderated by Sylvestermouse
Updated: 1/27/12

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~ Sylvestermouse ~