Antilocapra americana · (Ant-i-lo-KAP-ruh uh-MER-i-KAY-nuh)

A species of ungulate native to western North America, often referred to as an antelope. Pronghorn are known for their incredible speed, capable of running at speeds up to 55 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest land animals in the Western Hemisphere. They have distinct horns with a prong shape, hence their name, which are shed and regrown annually. Pronghorn primarily feed on grasses and other vegetation found in open grasslands and desert scrub habitats. They are highly adapted to the dry, arid environments of the western United States and are a valued species for wildlife enthusiasts and hunters alike. Conservation efforts aim to maintain healthy populations across their range.

Pecari tajacu · (peh-KAH-ree tah-JAH-koo)

Also known as collared peccary, javelina are medium-sized hoofed mammals native to North, Central, and South America. They are recognized by their dark gray to blackish coat and white collar around the neck. Javelina are primarily herbivores, feeding on cacti, roots, fruits, and tubers. They are social animals, often found in groups called "sounders," and are known for their strong sense of smell and hearing.

Sciurus spp. · (SKYE-yur-us)

Squirrels are small to medium-sized rodents found worldwide, with numerous species inhabiting various ecosystems from forests to urban areas. They are characterized by their bushy tails, sharp claws for climbing, and strong jaws for gnawing. Squirrels are omnivores, feeding on nuts, seeds, fruits, insects, bird eggs, and occasionally small vertebrates. They play a significant role in forest ecology by dispersing seeds and nuts.

Ortalis vetula · (OR-tah-lis veh-TOO-lah)

Chachalacas are medium-sized birds native to the subtropical and tropical regions of the Americas, including parts of the southern United States. They are known for their loud and distinctive calls, often heard at dawn and dusk. Chachalacas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on fruits, seeds, flowers, and leaves. They inhabit dense forests and scrublands and are notable for their social behavior, often seen in family groups or small flocks.

Phasianus colchicus · (fay-ZEE-an-us kol-KEE-kus)

Pheasants are colorful game birds native to Asia but widely introduced for hunting purposes in many parts of the world, including North America. They are known for their striking plumage, with males exhibiting bright colors and long tail feathers. Pheasants are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, insects, and small vertebrates. They are popular game birds, prized for their meat and challenging hunting behavior.

Genus Callipepla and others · (GEN-us kal-ih-PEP-luh)

Quail are small, ground-dwelling birds found in North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. They are characterized by their compact bodies, short necks, and plump appearance. Quail species vary widely in plumage coloration and markings. They are omnivores, feeding on seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. Quail are popular game birds in many regions, valued for their meat and eggs.

Meleagris gallopavo · (mel-uh-GRAY-is gal-uh-POH-voh)

Turkeys are large birds native to North America and parts of Central America. They are known for their distinctive fan-shaped tail and wattled neck. Wild turkeys inhabit forests, grasslands, and swamps, while domesticated turkeys are raised for meat worldwide. They are omnivores, feeding on seeds, nuts, insects, and small vertebrates. Turkeys are popular game birds and domestic livestock, especially during holiday feasts.

Genus Zenaida and others · (GEN-us zen-NYE-duh)

Doves are small to medium-sized birds found worldwide, inhabiting diverse habitats from forests to urban areas. They are known for their gentle cooing calls and rapid wing beats. Doves feed primarily on seeds and grains, with some species also consuming insects. They are important game birds and symbols of peace in various cultures.

Anatidae family, various species · (AN-uh-TIH-day)

Ducks are waterfowl found worldwide, inhabiting freshwater and saltwater environments. They are characterized by their flat bills, webbed feet, and waterproof feathers. Ducks are omnivores, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, small fish, and crustaceans. They are popular game birds and are also bred for meat, eggs, and down feathers.

Anatidae family, various species · (AN-uh-TIH-day)

Geese are large waterfowl closely related to ducks, found in diverse habitats across the globe. They are known for their long necks, honking calls, and strong flocking behavior. Geese are herbivores, feeding on grasses, grains, and aquatic vegetation. They are popular game birds, particularly for their meat and down feathers, and are also bred for ornamental purposes.

Rallidae family, various species · (RAL-uh-day)

Rails, gallinules, and moorhens are medium-sized to small waterbirds found worldwide, typically inhabiting marshes, swamps, and wetlands. They are characterized by their slender bodies, long toes for walking on vegetation, and secretive behavior. These birds are omnivores, feeding on a variety of aquatic plants, insects, small fish, and crustaceans. They are valued for their role in wetland ecosystems and are often sought after by birdwatchers.

Antigone canadensis · (AN-tih-guh-nee kan-uh-DEN-sis)

Sandhill cranes are large, long-legged birds found in North America, often seen in open grasslands, prairies, and wetlands. They are known for their distinctive trumpeting calls and elaborate courtship dances. Sandhill cranes are omnivorous, feeding on grains, seeds, insects, small vertebrates, and plant tubers. They are important migratory birds, traveling long distances between breeding and wintering grounds.

Gallinago spp. · (gal-LIN-uh-go)

Snipes are medium-sized, long-billed shorebirds found worldwide, often inhabiting marshes, wet meadows, and shorelines. They are recognized for their cryptic plumage and elusive behavior. Snipes are omnivores, feeding on a variety of invertebrates including worms, insects, and crustaceans. They are challenging game birds for hunters and are also admired by birdwatchers for their aerial displays during courtship.

Anas crecca and others · (AN-us KREK-uh)

Teals are small dabbling ducks found in freshwater habitats across Europe, Asia, and North America. They are known for their rapid wing beats and agile flight. Teals feed primarily on seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. They are popular game birds, prized for their speed and agility during hunting.

Scolopax spp. · (SKOH-luh-paks)

Woodcocks are medium-sized wading birds found in temperate and boreal forests of Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. They are known for their long, slender bills used for probing in mud and soil. Woodcocks are crepuscular, feeding primarily on earthworms and other invertebrates found in moist soils. They are highly prized as game birds for their challenging flight patterns and elusive behavior.

Alligator mississippiensis · (al-i-GAY-ter miss-iss-uh-PEE-en-sis)

Alligators are large reptiles native to the southeastern United States, inhabiting freshwater swamps, marshes, rivers, and lakes. They are characterized by their broad, rounded snouts and armored bodies. Alligators are carnivorous, feeding on fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals. They are apex predators in their habitats and play a crucial role in wetland ecosystems.

Leporidae family, various species · (lep-uh-RYE-dee)

Rabbits and hares are small to medium-sized mammals found worldwide, inhabiting diverse habitats from grasslands to forests. They are characterized by their long ears, powerful hind legs for jumping, and herbivorous diet. Rabbits and hares feed on grasses, clover, herbs, and bark. They are important prey species for many predators and are also hunted by humans for meat and fur.