Despite the harsh conditions, many creatures eke out a living here. Animals escape the summer heat in different ways. Most, like the mountain lion, venture forth in search of food only at night. Others, like the pika, are active at dusk and dawn. Those that are out during the day often seek shelter in the hottest hours.
Marmots take more extreme measures to escape heat.
They enter a state of suspended animation called estivation, during which their metabolism and body temperature drop. They remain inert until cooler, moister conditions return. Since there are no streams and few water holes at Craters of the Moon, animals must get the moisture they need directly from their food. Mule deer munch bitterbrush leaves. Violet-green swallows snatch insects from the air.