Without plants than there would be no source of oxygen or food source and life on Earth would stop. For this reason and many others it is crucial that we humans preserve the Border Country forests as well as other types of forests around the world. Many animals are colored to blend in with their backgrounds. This phenomenon is known as camouflage and is an excellent way for animals to hide from predators. Camouflage also works well for the predator because it allows the animal to hide and then ambush the prey.
Many land animals change colors depending on the season so they can blend in at any time of year.
Snowshoe hares, ruffed grouse, and ermines are examples of animals found in the Border Country that change color depending on the season. In the summer they are brown to blend in with the vegetation and in winter they are white to match the snow. These animals rely on their camouflage to keep them hidden from predators. Camouflage is also important for animals found in the lakes because food is limited. Conspicuous animals will not last long in the hungry lakes.