There is an interesting contrast between the incredible hardiness of the animals and plants that live here and their vulnerability to outside stressors for which they are not prepared. The Alpine Tundra Tundra environments also exist in the mountains above the tree line. The high meadows are sprinkled with mountain flowers in the summer. These areas are close to the forest area below, so there are more species of animals present than are found in the Arctic tundra. Animals are not totally dependent on the tundra vegetation, and can get food from lower elevations or migrate down the mountain as winter comes on.
Marmots make their homes here, and mountain goats and sheep spend their summers in the rocky crags.
Elizabeth Anne Viau and her licensors. All rights reserved. This material may be used by individuals for instructional purposes but not sold.