Big Bend National Park Wildlife: The Hot Desert Park

BY  sagnika Sep 7, 2023

Summers are warm. However, Scorching heat in certain places has highlighted them as heat wave zones. With heat wave temperatures across many areas worldwide, we are reminded that climate change is a global phenomenon. A significant health risk, heat wave zones make it difficult for people to travel, stay, enjoy or perform professional liabilities. I will identify certain important factors that influence travel plans, health risks and ways in which you can be safe from heat waves. The conditions that are being observed across the world in some beautiful vacation-worthy locations are serious! They can impact your health and lifestyle, so read the article to learn about the dangerous conditions that will likely affect your travel plans. Things To Keep In Mind While Traveling To Heat Wave Zones! Across the world, many places are currently heating up! Several tourist destinations and other places in Asia, Europe and the United States have heat wave temperatures. Officials in countries like France and Italy in Europe have issued health warnings. I am not saying it is highly risky, but the probability of the situation becoming risky is high! If you are visiting one of the heat wave zones, you may not be able to stick to your original plan, be it for vacation or professional liabilities. Let's explore further the precautions you might take to be safe when you visit or have to visit a heat wave zone! What Are Heat Waves? The increasing global temperature worldwide has led to people experiencing some of the hottest days! According to the weather reports, the heat intensifying in several countries worldwide has led to people fainting, sunburns and health concerns such as sunstroke. It is identified as a heat wave, especially when the temperature from June 2023 has been recorded as the warmest in the global records. The increasing heat wave temperature has succinctly impacted water supplies, agriculture, ecosystems, energy, human health and economies. One of the major reasons for heat waves has been greenhouse gas emissions, which need to be cut off as soon as possible. Climate change is a serious threat; we must take it that way to survive and help our future generations. What Are The Regions With Heat Wave Zones? In Europe, the temperature in Rome reached 104°F in July, while in Sardinia, it was 112°F. In at least 23 cities in Italy, there have been red alerts for the weather as the heat wave is potentially becoming a threat in recent times. Tourists have been passing out, creating an awareness towards global climate change and crisis. Now, Death Valley in Nevada, running along a section of the border of Central California, is identified as the "hottest place on earth"! The National Weather Service reported that the temperature reached 128°F in July 2023, a clear cause for concern. People living in Los Angeles heat wave are having serious health issue concerns! According to the weather forecast, the capital of Arizona, Phoenix, has seen a rise in temperature to 114°F while Florida and Texas are equally heating up! La Palma, located in the Canary Islands, has been riddled with wildfires recently, leading to the evacuation of 4,000 people from their homes. The popular tourist destination, the Acropolis in Athens, was shut down at the beginning of July this year during midday! It is peak time for tourist visits, but because the authorities informed us the temperature could rise to 111.2°F within a week, it was closed! In China, the recorded temperature in northwestern Xinjiang province was 126°F. Places worldwide have been hampered by the heat wave temperatures, impacting people's lifestyles, tourism and the country's economy. Is It Safe To Travel To Heat Wave Zones? As travelers, you should check the upcoming weather and climate of the location that you are visiting! If you visit one of the places I have stated regarding increasing temperature, you must keep a tab on the everyday temperature. Your sightseeing might go differently than planned if a situation occurs when one of the monuments or places you will be visiting is shutdown due to increasing temperature. If you suffer from chronic health conditions, you should not go out, especially in the scorching heat! If you are visiting from professional liability, you must carry out certain steps to cope with the heat. Remember that the temperature starts building from 11 a.m.; hence, try to enter a building or where your work is within that time frame. Read along further to learn about your steps to stay safe! What Are The Things To Do If You Travel To Heat Wave Zones? In the evening, the temperature will come down. Hence, it would be best to keep yourself cool in the daytime. The first thing is to wash your face and arms, including your armpits and wrists, so your body temperature can feel a bit of semblance. You can repeat the action as much as possible the whole day! If you are visiting Europe, you've got it easy! There are fountains in Europe. Apart from that, you need to take cool showers and air-dry yourself! It will keep the temperature of your body down. In some countries, such as Italy, residents are asked to stay in an air-conditioned environment for at least 3 hours a day. Try to find a cool restaurant, gallery or museum if you are visiting one of these countries to stay in air conditioning for some time. Try to wear clothing that is made of cool fabric, such as cotton! It is even better if the material is light and loose from your clothing. Try to use sunscreen as much as possible. Recently, people have been using manual and electric handheld fans to keep the face and body cool as much as possible. Another important thing that you must do is use heat wave sunglasses when outside! Drink more beverages and filled food, such as fruits, salads, and veggies! Also, ensure that you must have insurance covering all your medical expenses before traveling. What Are The Health Risks? Heatwave zones have several health risks, such as heatstroke or sunstroke! In this condition, your body cannot maintain a safe temperature, especially when exposed to hot weather. The body temperature must not exceed 103 Fahrenheit, but in sunstroke, it does. There is also a chance of getting pale skin, muscle cramps, sweating, and exhaustion. Currently, the US heat wave is one of the serious concerns for business travelers! You might get red and blotchy skin if you stay in the sun for too long! You have to take fluid regularly. Chances of dizziness, headaches, and sweating when visiting heat wave zones are high! Finishing Up… Overall, climate change has led to health risks along with issues where people cannot avoid these situations. With increasing temperatures in certain places across the world, people, children, and senior citizens cannot cope with the increasing temperature. People with chronic health conditions such as allergies to skin, asthma, upset stomachs, and headaches are facing more issues, especially when traveling to heatwave zones. I suggest following the tips and consulting a doctor if the situation worsens. Let us know your thoughts about this situation and how to be safe in heat wave temperatures! Read Also: Spring Travel And Eye Health Tips Sizzling Summer Road Trip Destinations 7 Tips For Planning The Perfect Summer Camp For Kids

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

The wildlife of Yellowstone National Park is as fascinating as its geology. So, along with the geysers, many tourists also visit this park to explore its wildlife. The grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and more make the park the biggest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states. However, the park is also a popular birder hub with ospreys, eagles, and falcons. You just need to know the spots well to encounter these wild creatures, with respect, of course.  Here, I will give you a brief idea about the mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish found in this park. I will also share where to spot them.  Mammals You Will See At Yellowstone National Park May to June or spring is the ideal season for watching mammals at Yellowstone National Park. You will especially get to see many bears and wolves in this season. Further, at the advent of the fall season, this park has elk bulls in great numbers.  Moreover, mammals like elk, bulls, and bison are also visible in the park in winter. Winter is also a great time to glimpse the Lamar Valley wolves. So, watching wildlife at Yellowstone National Park is a year-round activity.  Tour and Travel Tips For Wildlife Watching At Yellowstone National ParkTrek the park in the early morning or evening to have better visibility of the wildlife. The temperature remains moderate during these hours of the day.Further, you will need spotting scopes or binoculars to see the wild animals.Maintain at least 25 yards of distance from elk, bison, and other wild animals. However, for bears and wolves, you must maintain at least 100 yards of distance.  Let’s learn about the most prominent mammals in the park in detail.  American Bison Where to Find: Lamar and Hayden Valleys and the Grasslands Best Time to Find: July to August Did you know that bison in Yellowstone make up the largest (remaining) bison population on American public land?  The biggest mammals of the park, bison, have been there since pre-historic times. A male bison weighs 1,800 pounds on average, while the weight of a female bison is close to 1300 pounds.  Black And Grizzly Bears Where to Find: Mammoth and Tower Areas (Black Bear) and Lamar and Hayden Valleys (Grizzly Bears) Best Time to Find: May to June Black and grizzly bears co-exist in many parts of the national park. Grizzlies are bigger than black bears, with a hump on their shoulders and a rounder face. Bear safari is a popular activity in the park. However, you need to maintain a distance of at least 100 yards and follow all safety regulations, as bears can get violent, especially when they are with their cubs.  Elk Where to Find: Lamar Valley, Madison Canyon, Mammoth Valley Best Time to Find: September to November Due to the impressive antlers, elks are probably the most photographed animals in this national park. Do you know that the antler of an elk can grow up to 6 feet? Moose and deer, closely related to elks, are other prominent park mammals. Moose is the largest of the Cervidae family, and elks are the second largest.  Further, moose are seen in the park’s marshy areas and near water bodies. Bighorn Sheep Where to Find: Gardner Canyon and Near the Yellowstone River Best Time to Visit Bighorn Sheep in Yellowstone National Park - November and December The large and curved horns of bighorn sheep make them stand out. You will find these horns on the males. Bighorn sheep live in a herd, and in the fall season, the males get involved in loggerheads to win over their female companion.  There is one fascinating fact about bighorn sheep. When a baby bighorn sheep (lamb) is born, it can climb and walk within one day. Wolves Where to Find: Throughout the Park Best Time to See Wolves: May to June Around 100 wolves live in the Yellowstone National Park. Leopold packs, Yellowstone Delta, and Slough Creek are the biggest wolf packs in the park.  Wolves are native to the park. However, in 1995, they were re-introduced here.  Along with the types discussed, you will also find mammals like coyotes, martens, red foxes, wolverines, mule deer, marmots, and more in the park. Overall, around 67 species of mammals live here.  Amphibians In Yellowstone National Park Thanks to a unique geology, there are various ponds and wetlands across the Yellowstone National Park. Here, you will find the following varieties. Boreal Chorus Frog Western Tiger Salamander Western Toad Columbia Spotted Frog Plains Spadefoot Toad Further, these amphibians play a crucial role in the maintenance of the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems of the park. Many mammals, birds, reptiles, and even fish prey on them. Also, they eat many vertebrate and invertebrate creatures to balance the food chain. Moreover, the amphibians in the park are indicators of high pollution rates or changes in the weather. They even indicate the advent of diseases and the arrival of any nonnative species.  So, research on amphibian populations in the park is crucial to know about any impending danger that may affect the ecosystem.  Reptiles At Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone has six species of reptiles. However, there is a greater scope for studying and identifying these reptiles. As of today, the reptile species found in the park are: Terrestrial garter snake Common garter snake Rubber boa Prairie rattlesnake Bullsnake Sagebrush lizard Prairie rattlesnake is the only venomous snake in the park, while bullsnake is the largest variety found here. Yellowstone National Park: A Birder’s Paradise A 2018 survey in Yellowstone National Park announced the presence of 82 species of birds in the park.  Further, the species of birds here are varied, and the table below mentions the variety you will come across in the park. OwlsNorthern saw-whet owl Northern pygmy-owlBoreal owl Great-horned owl EaglesBald eagleGolden eagleColony Nesting BirdsPelicanHeronsIbisesSong Birds Ruby-crowned kinglet American RobinDark-eyed junco You will also find birds like woodpeckers, ducks, geese, swans, falcons, and ospreys in this national park.  Fish In Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone National Park is home to many native and non-native fish species. Eastern Brook Trout, brown trout, lake chub, rainbow trout, and lake trout are some non-native fish species in the park. Further, this park has native fish species, such as mountain sucker, speckled dace, Utah chub, Redside Shiner, etc.  Human Imprint On Yellowstone National Park  The home to Native Americans, Yellowstone National Park displays a human tapestry of almost 11000 years. The natives of the place have survived on hunting and fishing. Further, they have known the medicinal properties of the herbs available in the park. In addition, the healing properties and religious importance of the thermal water here had a major impact on the local human lives.  Yellowstone National Park: At A Glance  How to Reach Yellowstone National Park: Reach the Yellowstone Airport and take a cab or bus to Yellowstone National Park. Highest Point: Eagle Peak Established: 1st March 1872 Designation: UNESCO World Heritage Site for “globally unparalleled assemblage of surficial geothermal activity.” Entry Fee: $25-80 based on the entrance pass  Visitor Centers: Albright Visitor Center, West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center, Grant Visitor Center, etc.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 3, 2021

Whenever we are catching the name of the Gobi desert, what comes first into your mind? a large dry region with very little rainfall, hot sands are burning under your feet. You can see many strange things in the desert which are counting as the Gobi desert facts. First, take a look at what does gobi means? Can you guess the meaning? By the local people tongue, The meaning is waterless place. Even you can see unusual changes in the weather within a single day. The less rainfall makes the area dry. You can see very little green in the place. But these are not the drawbacks of the desert.  In Which Country Of Central Asia Is The Gobi Desert Found? The desserts are famous for their unique natural beauty. The beauty lies in the eyes of the viewers and the travelers who are fond of this type of beauty. If we are talking about the desert, then the first name that comes to mind is Asia’s most extensive Mongolian desert, the Gobi Desert.  Like the Unique Gobi desert facts, the Atacama desert is also a very good example to see the unique diversions of nature. The Atacama is a natural preserver of the bodies of living beings. Gobi desert is a large desert located in China and Mongolia. In the Atacama desert, Elqui Valley is hiding all the ecological secrets. This Mongolian desert is also hiding many truths like the Atacama. We can see a very distinguished ecosystem in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia.  6 Wondrous Gobi Desert Facts This large and beautiful desert is the signature of Mongolia. If you visit Mongolia, then without visiting the Gobi Desert, your travel will not be completed. The desert is full of different types of fossils dinosaurs, other ancient animals, and birds. The unique dry environments work as the perfect preserver of the animal’s body. A meteoroid falling is another important Gobi desert fact. Let’s see some very interesting gobi desert facts and about the cold desert in Mongolia and China. 1. The Location And Area Of The Desert So let’s start with where's the Gobi desert? This large desert located in China and Mongolia. Gobi desert is the largest Mongolian desert that stretches across parts of Mongolia and China. When you are seeing the unique gobi desert facts you are going to feel the positions of the desert is playing an important role. If you see the world map gobi desert you will find the desert area is around 1,300,000 square kilometers spread. This is the sixth-largest desert in the whole world. This is entitled to Asia’s largest desert in the brushland region of East Asia. The desert basin is bounded by the Altai Mountains.  This area is famous for its unique rain shadow desert type ecological balance. The Gobi desert location includes the long-range of desert extending from the base of the Pamir. The weather of the desert is quite chilling with respect to the Asian desert. 2. Archeological Value Of The Gobi Desert This Mongolian desert is the sixth-largest desert in the whole world. This long and beautiful desert crosses over the two countries. One is Mongolia another one is China. The desserts are best to store the secrets of nature. The desert’s Archeological value is quite impressive; the dry climate and the hot summer weather works as the natural preserver of the follicle treasure. The whole area is just full of old fossils and the meteorite (commonly known as the shooting star from the sky). You can find almost 100,000 years old fossils of mammals and the dinosaurs, and other flora and fauna ascendance. In 1923 one archeological group found almost 9 inches long a facile of dinosaur eggs. Among the gobi desert facts, this follicle finding is making sensational news. In which country of central Asia is the gobi desert found? This is a very common question among travelers. Mongolia and China are the nearest two countries to the Gobi desert.   3. The Unique Desert Animals The whole of Mongolia is famous for the Bactrian Camels, Mongolian Wild Ass, and the marbled poled cats. The two hump camels are the most famous and unique animals of the desert. Gobi mountains are the best place for hiding all the gobi mountain animals especially the snow leopard and glamorous marble cats.  Gobi desert’s average temperature is very high but these desert animals are adopting the harsh climate of the china desert. Among all gobi desert facts, the unique temperature variation is also noticeable. After arriving in Mongolia, you may be riding the Bactrian Camels, but seeing these wild animals in the wild is quite a unique experience. This long desert is covering almost three provinces of Mongolia and three provinces from China.  This whole area is requiring visas for two countries, Mongolia and China. This whole area is a habitat of many unusual animals like Gobi bears, Snow leopards, and wild wolves. If you are lucky enough, you will get to see one of these majestic animals. Also Read: Top 12 Amazing Sahara Desert Animals You Need To See 4. Weather And The Climate Of The Gobi Desert This desert weather is quite chilling in respect to other deserts in Asia. We can see extremely varied temperatures and climate change in nature. The range of the temperature lies at -32.8 degrees Celsius in the winter. On the other hand, it lies at 37 C in the Summer season. If you see the gobi desert map you are going to find how much area is a rain shadow area.  The scorching sun is always upon the desert, and these make the desert dry and hot. The winter is cold here, but the Gobi Desert is not the coldest desert in the world. The rainfall is less than nearly 194mm rainfall occurs during the whole year.  The monsoons can not be seen in the whole area. Only the monsoon reaches the southeast parts of the Gobi. If you are visiting the desert in the summers, then we must say pack some sun-protective clothes and creams. Among the gobi desert facts, a harsh dry climate is natural. The summer and the winter both seasons are extremely dry. The southeast part of the desert is relatively greenish because of the good rainfalls. 5. Natural Beauty Of The Gobi Desert Every desert has its unique natural beauty. The natural beauty comes from different climate changes and the different types of ecological diversity of nature.  The desert’s harsh climate is quite challenging for every inhabitant of the desert, but despite that, the Gobi Desert animals can call the desert their home because they are accustomed to this harsh climate.  The southeastern part is quite green than the other part of the desert. But the whole desert view will be enjoyable when you go out on a camel ride and see the setting sun in the desert.  The beautiful sun rays are reflecting on the different structures of the desert. These beautiful images are worth more than a million in the eyes of any traveler. Among the Gobi Desert facts, the gobi desert climate is harsh and dry, but the desert’s beautiful sights are just too great. Also Read: Top Ten Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures 6. What To Do In The Gobi Desert This beautiful Desert is not the place for adventure sports and the different crowded sports activities. Solidity and peace of mind are two basic things which you can enjoy. The camel ride with communication with the local people is the easiest way to enjoy. The helpful local people have always welcomed travelers with their warm hearts. The short hiking trips on camels will bring the beautiful flavor of the desert. These Gobi desert facts are the most enjoyable places in the Gobi desert. See the desert physical map and find the adventure sports spots. Do not miss out on the local traditional Mongolian cuisines. When you taste the traditional food of the desert, you will feel the old and the authenticity of the culture. Gobi Desert Name The Gobi desert gets its name from the Mongolian word "Gobi" which means semi-desert. Despite being known for its aridity and lack of rainfall, the Gobi is actually rich in vegetation and supports life. The desert is home to many wild animals and even nomads who have adapted to the harsh environment. While locals refer to it as simply Gobi, foreigners tend to call it the Gobi desert. In any case, the name Gobi is a geographical term that describes the unique semi-desert region in central Asia. This name was first introduced to the world by American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews in the 1920s. Bactrian Camels Of The Gobi Desert Did you know that the Bactrian camels, also known as two-humped camels, are native to the Gobi desert? As a matter of fact, 10% of the world's camels are Bactrian Camels, and the majority of them are found in the central Asian Gobi desert. In Mongolia alone, there are around 430000 of the world's 2 million Bactrian camel population. Interestingly, the Bactrian Camel's ancestor, the Havtgai wild camel, still exists in the Gobi desert. The harsh climate of central Asia has formed their two humps, which help the camels store more fat and energy. Winter In The Gobi Desert The Gobi desert remains a popular travel destination even during the winter season. Unlike most deserts, the Gobi desert experiences snowfall during winter, making it a unique destination to explore during this time. The vast emptiness of the Mongolian desert is even more pronounced in the winter, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience a sense of authenticity and connect with locals. The camels are a spectacular sight to behold in their winter coat, and the occasional snow covering the sand creates a surreal landscape for wildlife observation. Additionally, witnessing the frozen waterfall in the Gobi desert is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The well-known attraction, Eagle Valley, transforms into an Ice Valley during the winter season. Some of our clients have described the Gobi desert's sandstorms and snowstorms as some of the most unique experiences they have ever had. For an unforgettable winter adventure, the Gobi Tour is the best option for exploring the Gobi desert in Mongolia. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): How Old is Gobi Dessert? Archeologists and paleontologists found in the northern part of the Gobi Desert, that it has fossils treasures, including early mammals, dinosaur eggs, and some prehistoric stone implements. Finally, after studying them they have announced that Gobi Dessert is probably 100,000 years old. Do Humans Live in Gobi Dessert? Camels are the ones who took up most of the land in Gobi Dessert.  To answer the question, yes, people live there but are relatively small. What Are The Dangers in Gobi Dessert? The Gobi Dessert recurs drought, extreme coldness, wind, and dust storms which are very dominant hazards.  What Is A Gobi Animal? It is actually called the Gobi bear, which is a brown bear subspecies, now critically endangered. They are omnivorous in nature like humans, they consume berries, leaves, and large animals. Conclusion When you are walking through the flaming cliffs of the Gobi Desert, you will feel the history that lies beneath your feet. The wild animals and the unusual landscape of the area is the main attraction of the place. The Place is not only large. You will find beautiful ecological diversity all over the desert. One side of the desert is dry, the other side is relatively green, which is quite uncommon among the Asian desert. Visit Mongolia and enjoy Asia’s largest desert and check out our Gobi desert facts and do not forget to comment back to us. You May Also Like:  Top 10 Affordable Hostels In Los Angeles In 2021 - California Top 11 Budget Tokyo Hostels In Japan 10 Amazing Things To Do In Medellin