North American Rocky Mountains are called the ‘spine of the continent‘. Range from Alaska to Mexico. Stunning elevations from high mountain peaks to low river valleys, diversity of habitat, coniferous forests, sub-alpine meadows, grasslands, sage-brush & miles of streams.
Highest region contains expansive forests for essential wildlife habitat. Home to many endangered species, headwater of major river systems, iconic animals like grizzly bears, elk, mule deer, mountain caribou, grey wolves, lynx & wolverines. Spectacular.
Rockies are a popular place to visit & to live. Human development is filling prime valley habitat, a source of conflict between people & wildlife. Oil, gas drilling destroys & disturbs wildlife. Motorised recreation is booming for noise pollution. Wildlife must now navigate neighbourhood’s, highway’s, livestock & tourists across landscape. Endangered species.
Diversion, over-allocation of water for development, agriculture & energy production severely impact the region, affect the riverine habitat. Climate change, declining snow, low stream flows, warmer waters threaten the survival of cold water species like the native trout. Wonderful, wise wildlife initiatives are helping protect the forest lands to conserve, connect & recover endangered species in their habitat.