America's Animals

The beauty of America's varied landscapes is well known. One of our most popular patriotic songs praises "purple mountain majesties/Above the fruited plain."

Somewhat less well-known is the wealth of wildlife with which America has been blessed. From the plains and bayous of Texas, to the mountains of Colorado and Washington, to the forests of Michigan, our continent has a rich diversity of animals. In my travels, over the years, I have had the opportunity to photograph a number of these creatures, whether in the wild, in safari parks, at Renaissance fairs, or in zoos.

In an age when more and more land is being swallowed up by urban sprawl, when pollution and climate change threaten entire ecosystems, I think it is good to remind ourselves of who else we share this world with.

Below are lists of some notable American animals, both predators and prey species. For variety, I have included some from the realms of land, air, and water.

Under the lists are links to photos and information on these animals, the photography involved, and some organizations whose mission it is to protect and defend these animals and the environment.

Predators

• Coyote
• Peregrine Falcon
• North American River Otter
• Black Bear
• Barred Owl
• American Alligator
• Blacktip Shark
• Bottlenose Dolphin

Prey

• White-tailed Deer
• Canada Goose
• Red-eared Slider Turtle
• Elk
• Chipmunk
• Roseate Spoonbill
• Moon Jellyfish
• Firefly