Yosemite Wildlife/Mammals

A few examples of some of Yosemite's abundant wildlife. Thought not known for the big animals like Yellowstone, a diverse array of beautiful creatures inhabit Yosemite and play important roles in its complex ecosystems.

"Running out of Time" ©2011, James McGrew<br />
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A Pika races across boulders and cobbles near Olmstead Point. Pikas are lagomorphs, members of the rabbit family, found at high elevation rocky/talus areas in the Sierra. Pikas are a species of interest for climatologists because they require cool summer temperatures and many scientists have speculated that with global warming, these animals may suffer a reduction in habitat and therefore extinction. For further reading on the NPS Pikas in Peril project:<br /> <a href="http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/ucbn/monitor/pika/pika_peril/index.cfm">http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/ucbn/monitor/pika/pika_peril/index.cfm</a><br />
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©2011, James McGrew<br />
File number: LM2U0017

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"Running out of Time" ©2011, James McGrew

A Pika races across boulders and cobbles near Olmstead Point. Pikas are lagomorphs, members of the rabbit family, found at high elevation rocky/talus areas in the Sierra. Pikas are a species of interest for climatologists because they require cool summer temperatures and many scientists have speculated that with global warming, these animals may suffer a reduction in habitat and therefore extinction. For further reading on the NPS Pikas in Peril project:
http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/ucbn/monitor/pika/pika_peril/index.cfm

©2011, James McGrew
File number: LM2U0017