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Westslope Cutthroat Trout - Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi

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Westslope Cutthroat Trout - Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi

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Traits:

They typically have a greenish to olive-colored back with yellow-orange hues and a reddish-pink band along their sides. Their underside is usually lighter in color. The most recognizable feature is the red slash marks (or "cutthroat") on the underside of their lower jaw, which give them their name. These marks are more pronounced during spawning season. They are typically medium-sized trout, with adults ranging from 10 to 20 inches in length, although larger specimens can be found.

Lifecycle:

Egg Stage(Spawning) -

Spawning typically occurs in late spring to early summer when water temperatures rise and conditions are suitable.

Adult fish migrate to gravel-bottomed streams and rivers where females excavate nests (called redds) in the substrate using their tails.

Females deposit eggs into the redds, and males simultaneously release sperm (milt) to fertilize the eggs.

After fertilization, the eggs are buried and covered with gravel to protect them from predators and environmental factors.

Embryo Stage -

The fertilized eggs develop and hatch into alevins, which remain in the gravel and rely on their yolk sacs for nutrients.

Alevins are small and have underdeveloped fins and pigmentation. They remain in the gravel for several weeks until they absorb their yolk sacs and emerge as fry.

Fry Stage -

Fry emerge from the gravel and begin to swim and feed actively.

They primarily feed on small aquatic invertebrates and zooplankton found in the stream or river.

Juvenile Stage -

As the fish grow, they transition into the juvenile stage. At this point, they develop more defined markings and coloration.

They continue to feed on aquatic insects, crustaceans, and small fish, gradually increasing in size.

Adult Stage -

Once they reach maturity, typically around 2-4 years of age, Westslope Cutthroat Trout become reproductively active and capable of spawning.

Adult fish migrate to spawning areas during the spawning season to reproduce, completing the lifecycle

Habitat:

Westslope Cutthroat Trout are commonly found in cold, clear streams and rivers originating from mountainous regions. These habitats often have gravel or rocky bottoms and are fed by snowmelt or springs, maintaining cool water temperatures year-round. They frequently occupy headwater streams, which are the uppermost reaches of river systems. These streams are often narrow, shallow, and characterized by fast-flowing, turbulent water. Westslope Cutthroat Trout also inhabit lakes and reservoirs within their range. They may be found in both natural and man-made impoundments, where they utilize deeper water and shoreline habitats.

Food Web:

Westslope Cutthroat Trout primarily feed on aquatic insects and invertebrates during their juvenile and adult stages. These include mayfly nymphs, caddisfly larvae, stonefly nymphs, midge larvae, and aquatic beetles. They may also prey on terrestrial insects that fall into the water, such as ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. Larger predators, such as birds like herons, kingfishers, and ospreys, may prey on juvenile and adult Westslope Cutthroat Trout, particularly in shallow waters. Mammals like otters and mink may also prey on trout, especially in smaller streams and rivers.

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Columbia Spotted Frog - Rana luteiventris

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Columbia Spotted Frog - Rana luteiventris

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Traits:

Adults typically have a stocky body with a smooth, moist skin. They are usually light brown or olive-green in color with darker spots or blotches scattered across their back and sides. Some individuals may have a yellow or greenish stripe running along their back. Adults generally range from 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) in length, with females being slightly larger than males.

Lifecylce:

Egg Stage(Spawning) -

Breeding typically occurs in the spring and early summer, when temperatures rise and conditions are suitable.

Males attract females with calls, and mating takes place in water bodies such as ponds, lakes, or marshes.

Females lay clusters of eggs in shallow water or attach them to vegetation.

Embryo Stage -

The eggs hatch into tadpoles within a few days to weeks, depending on temperature and environmental conditions.

Tadpoles are aquatic and have gills for breathing underwater. They primarily feed on algae, detritus, and plant matter.

Tadpole Stage(larval) -

Tadpoles undergo a series of growth stages, during which they gradually develop limbs and absorb their tail.

As they grow, they begin to resemble miniature frogs more closely.

Tadpoles are vulnerable to predation and environmental changes, so they often seek shelter in vegetation or at the bottom of water bodies.

Metamorphosis -

After a period of development, tadpoles undergo metamorphosis, during which they undergo significant physiological and morphological changes to become juvenile frogs.

Their tail is absorbed, and their hind legs develop first, followed by their front legs.

The gills are replaced by lungs, enabling them to breathe air.

Juvenile Stage -

Newly metamorphosed juvenile frogs leave the water and begin their life on land.

Juveniles are typically smaller in size and have a different diet than adult frogs.

They gradually transition to terrestrial habitats but may still spend time near water bodies for moisture and food.

Adult Stage -

Juvenile frogs continue to grow and mature into reproductive adults.

Adults are fully terrestrial but often remain close to water bodies for breeding and foraging.

They play a vital role in the ecosystem as predators of insects and other invertebrates, as well as prey for various predators.

Habitat:
These frogs are often found in shallow ponds and lakes with vegetation along the shoreline. They use these habitats for breeding and foraging, particularly during the warmer months. Columbia Spotted Frogs thrive in marshes, wet meadows, and other wetland areas where there is ample vegetation and standing water. These habitats provide both breeding sites and abundant food resources. They can also be found in slow-moving streams and rivers with vegetated banks. These habitats offer additional opportunities for breeding and foraging, as well as refuge from predators.

Food Web:

Columbia Spotted Frogs primarily feed on aquatic insects and invertebrates, including beetles, flies, mosquitoes, and various larvae. Tadpoles also consume algae, detritus, and plant matter as herbivores. Predators of Columbia Spotted Frogs may include birds such as herons, kingfishers, and waterfowl, as well as mammals like raccoons, snakes, and fish. Juvenile and adult frogs may also fall prey to larger frogs, snakes, and birds of prey.

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Western Painted Turtle - Chrysemys picta bellii

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Western Painted Turtle - Chrysemys picta bellii

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Traits:

The shell of the Western Painted Turtle is relatively flat and oval-shaped, with a smooth texture. It is usually dark green to black in color with yellow, orange, or red markings, resembling brush strokes or lines. The skin of the Western Painted Turtle is typically dark green to black, with yellow or red stripes or markings. The skin on the head and limbs may have bright yellow or red patches. Adult Western Painted Turtles typically range from 4 to 10 inches (10 to 25 centimeters) in length, with females being larger than males.

Lifecylce:

Egg Stage (Spawning) -

Breeding typically occurs in the spring and early summer, when temperatures rise and conditions are suitable.

Female turtles dig nests in sandy or gravelly soil near water bodies, often in areas with ample sunlight.

They lay clutches of eggs, usually containing 5 to 20 eggs, depending on the size and age of the female.

The eggs are left unattended, and the incubation period varies but generally lasts around 60 to 90 days, depending on temperature and environmental conditions.

Hatchling Stage -

After the incubation period, hatchlings emerge from the eggs. They have soft shells and are vulnerable to predation and environmental factors.

Hatchlings typically dig their way out of the nest and make their way to water, guided by instinct.

Juvenile Stage -

Once in the water, juvenile Western Painted Turtles begin their life aquatic. They spend much of their time foraging for food and seeking shelter among aquatic vegetation.

Juveniles are preyed upon by a variety of predators, including fish, birds, mammals, and larger turtles.

Adult Stage -

As Western Painted Turtles grow and mature, they transition into the adult stage. They become more adept at foraging, swimming, and basking.

Adult turtles are sexually mature and capable of reproducing. Breeding occurs annually, typically in the spring and early summer.

Longevity -

Western Painted Turtles have a relatively long lifespan, with individuals capable of living for several decades in the wild. Some may live for 20 to 40 years or more under favorable conditions.

Habitat:

Western Painted Turtles are commonly found in freshwater ponds and lakes with shallow areas and plenty of vegetation. These habitats provide ample basking sites, foraging opportunities, and nesting sites for the turtles. They also inhabit marshes, wet meadows, and other wetland areas with slow-moving or stagnant water. These habitats often have dense vegetation and provide abundant food resources for the turtles. Western Painted Turtles can be found in slow-moving streams and rivers with muddy bottoms and vegetated banks. These habitats offer opportunities for foraging, basking, and nesting.

Food Web:

Western Painted Turtles primarily feed on aquatic invertebrates such as insects, snails, worms, and small crustaceans. They are also known to consume aquatic plants, algae, and carrion. Juvenile turtles often have a more insect-based diet, while adults may consume a wider variety of plant and animal matter. Larger predators such as fish, birds, and mammals may prey on Western Painted Turtles, particularly hatchlings and juveniles. Predators of turtle eggs include raccoons, skunks, foxes, and birds such as crows and raccoons.

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Traits:

The American Dipper is a medium-sized bird with a plump body, short tail, and stubby wings. It has a slate-gray to brownish-gray plumage that appears dark and waterproof, helping it stay dry while diving. Its legs are short and stout, adapted for gripping rocks and underwater foraging. One of the most remarkable traits of the American Dipper is its unique habit of diving and foraging underwater in fast-flowing streams and rivers. It can walk underwater on streambeds and use its wings to swim, propelling itself against the current. American Dippers are highly territorial birds, often defending stretches of stream or river against intruders.They are primarily active during the day (diurnal) and may forage both in and out of the water, searching for aquatic insects and larvae, small fish, and other aquatic prey.

Lifecylce:

Nesting and Breeding -

Breeding typically occurs in the spring and early summer when water levels are higher and food availability is greater.

American Dippers are monogamous and form pair bonds that can last for multiple breeding seasons.

They construct dome-shaped nests made of moss, grass, twigs, and other materials, often situated near or over water. Nest sites may be behind waterfalls, within rock crevices, or under bridges for protection.

Females lay a clutch of eggs, usually 4 to 6, which they incubate for about two weeks. Both parents participate in incubation and care of the eggs.

Hatching and Nestling Stage -

After the incubation period, the eggs hatch, and the nestlings emerge. The young are altricial, meaning they are born relatively immobile and dependent on parental care.

Both parents feed the nestlings a diet consisting primarily of aquatic invertebrates, such as insects and larvae, which they forage from nearby streams and rivers.

The nestlings grow rapidly and develop feathers over the course of a few weeks.

Fledgling Stage -

Once the nestlings have developed flight feathers and are strong enough to leave the nest, they fledge, or leave the nest, usually around 3 to 4 weeks after hatching.

Fledglings are still dependent on their parents for food and protection and may remain in the vicinity of the nest site while they continue to develop their flight and foraging skills.

Juvenile Stage -

After fledging, young American Dippers enter the juvenile stage, during which they continue to refine their flying, foraging, and other survival skills.

They may disperse from their natal territory and establish their own territories along streams and rivers.

Adult Stage -

Juvenile American Dippers mature into adult birds, typically within their first year of life.

Adult Dippers are capable of breeding and may form pair bonds with mates, continuing the lifecycle by nesting and raising their own offspring.

Habitat:

American Dippers are commonly found along mountain streams and rivers with rocky substrates and swift currents. These habitats provide ample food in the form of aquatic insects, larvae, and small fish. They prefer habitats with clean, clear water, as it allows them to easily spot prey while foraging underwater. Pollution and sedimentation can negatively impact their habitat quality. Riparian areas along streams and rivers are important habitats for American Dippers. They use these zones for foraging, nesting, and sheltering, often selecting sites with overhanging vegetation or rocky outcrops. American Dippers are known to nest behind waterfalls or within rock crevices near cascades. These sites provide protection from predators and may offer easy access to food-rich areas in the water.

Food Web:

The American Dipper primarily feeds on aquatic invertebrates such as insects and their larvae, which it catches by diving and foraging underwater. Common prey items include mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, midges, aquatic beetles, and other small aquatic organisms. Larger predators such as fish, birds, and mammals may prey on American Dippers, particularly nestlings and fledglings.

Predators of American Dipper eggs and nestlings may include raccoons, mink, weasels, birds of prey, and snakes.

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Traits:

Mountain Goats are large mammals with a stocky build, muscular shoulders, and strong legs adapted for climbing steep terrain. They have a shaggy white coat that provides insulation against cold temperatures and helps camouflage them against snowy backgrounds. Both males (billies) and females (nannies) have black horns, which are curved backward and can grow up to 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) long.

Lifecycle:

Birth -

Mountain Goat breeding typically occurs in the fall, with mating taking place between adult males (billies) and females (nannies).

After a gestation period of about six months, females give birth to a single kid (occasionally twins) in the spring or early summer.

Kids are born precocial, meaning they are relatively developed at birth and are capable of standing and walking shortly after birth.

Early Life -

Kids remain with their mothers and form close bonds with them. They rely on their mothers for nourishment, protection, and guidance.

Nannies provide milk to their offspring, which helps them grow and develop during their early weeks and months of life.

Kids spend much of their time exploring their surroundings, learning from their mothers, and practicing essential skills such as climbing and foraging.

Weaning and Independence -

Kids are typically weaned by the end of their first summer, at around 5-6 months of age.

After weaning, young Mountain Goats gradually become more independent from their mothers, although they may still stay close to their family group for some time.

They continue to learn from adult members of the group, honing their climbing abilities and foraging skills.

Adolescence and Maturity -

As young Mountain Goats reach adolescence, they may begin to disperse from their natal group and establish their own territories.

Young males (billies) may form small bachelor groups, while females (nannies) often remain in close association with their mothers and other females.

Sexual maturity is reached at around two to three years of age, at which point individuals are capable of breeding and contributing to the next generation.

Reproductive Cycle -

Breeding occurs annually, typically in the fall, with mating taking place between adult males and females.

Males compete for access to females through displays and physical contests, establishing dominance hierarchies within populations.

The lifecycle then repeats itself, with females giving birth to new offspring in the spring or early summer, thus perpetuating the Mountain Goat population.

Habitat:

Mountain Goats are most commonly found in high-elevation habitats, often above the treeline, where they can access rocky slopes, cliffs, and mountain peaks. They are well-adapted to life in these extreme environments, with specialized anatomical features that allow them to navigate steep and rocky terrain. Mountain Goats prefer habitats with rugged terrain, including rocky cliffs, talus slopes, and boulder fields. Their strong legs and specialized hooves provide excellent traction and stability on steep and uneven surfaces.

Food Web:

Mountain Goats are herbivores and primarily feed on alpine vegetation. They consume a variety of grasses, herbs, shrubs, and lichens found in their rocky mountain habitat. Mountain Goats are preyed upon by various predators, including mountain lions (cougars), wolves, bears, and occasionally golden eagles. Predation pressure may be higher on young, sick, or injured individuals.