Brown Bears

Brown bears include the sub-species of Grizzly bears, Kodiak bears, and Mexican Brown bears. These bears can weigh as much as 1500 pounds and have non-retractable claws that can grow to almost 6 inches! Despite being more than outfitted to hunt prey, Brown bears actually obtain about 75% of their food from plant sources. Brown bears, especially Grizzly bears here in the U.S., are often seen as a danger to humans. This is true in certain instances, but in fairness to the bears, it is primarily the loss of habitat that forces these bears to seek out food sources in human-populated areas. Bears are becoming more and more attracted to garbage bins and dumpsters, and when they are spotted frequenting a certain area, they are often captured and relocated to areas such as Yellowstone National Park in California, which houses an enormous reserve for bears. Due to the encroachment of humans into their habitat, Grizzlies are listed as threatened in the United States. The now-extinct California Grizzly can be seen on the state's flag.

Check out this cool Brown Bear shop:


Grizzly Bear Gifts


B is for Bear Mug

To find out more about Grizzlies and how you can help protect them and their habitat, visit the National Wildlife Federation

Turtles and Tortoises

What is the difference between turtles and tortoises? Well, the distinguishing characteristics vary from language to language. In American English, those species living in freshwater are called "turtles," those living in sea water are called "sea turtles," and those living on land are called "tortoises." Turtles are one of the oldest living reptiles, emerging over 200 million years ago. Turtles are most recognizable by their outer protective shell, in which they can "fold" their neck to escape danger. Another well-known characteristic of turtles is their slow pace, which is a cause of both their heavy shell and short, stubby, bent legs. Follow these neat turtle links below:


tortoise and Hare greeting cards


Cute Turtle Gifts


Sea Turtle Cards


Framed Turtle Print



T is for Turtle Mug