chaparrelanimalsPER8


 * A n i m a l s **

 There is a very large variety of animals that live in the chaparral.

=Black-Tailed Jackrabbit =  These animals are primary consumers because of their herbivorous diets. Jackrabbits are not actually rabbits, but hares. They have very large ears that help to regulate its body heat and help it to absorb heat or cool off. They also have very long legs that help them run up to 36 mph to escape predators. Another adaptation is that the bottom of their feet are covered with fur so that their feet are cushioned when they hit the ground and insulated from the extreme desert heat. One other adaptation is the silver and tan color of their fur that helps them to blend in with their surroundings and stay away from predators.

=Puma = These animals are tertiary consumers because they eat primary and secondary consumers. One adaptation of the puma is its feet and legs. Their feet are very large and their hind legs are very long. This helps them to catch their prey so that they can survive.

=Grey Fox = Grey foxes are omnivorous secondary consumers. One very important adaptation for the grey fox is its ability to climb trees. It has short, powerful legs that help them to balance when climbing. Also, they have strong, hooked claws that let them pull themselves up as they climb. The ability to climb helps them find food and prevents them from being eaten by animals such as the red fox. Another adaptation is its fur color, which helps it hide from predators.

 =Spotted Skunk = This animal's omnivorous diet makes it a secondary consumer. It also has a large number of adaptations. The spotted skunks have larger teeth than other skunks which help them to eat their prey. Also, they have sharp claws that help them climb trees and dig for larva. In order to get away from predators, skunks have a special adapatation: spray. Skunks first give their predators a warning by stomping their feet. If the predator doesn't listen, then the skunk will spray them with a scent that lingers for days. =Golden Jackal = The golden jackal is an omnivore and also a secondary consumer, with a diet including rodents, birds, and fruit. It has also adapted to eating insects. In the winter, the jackal grows a thick coat of hair to keep him warm. 

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