Nestled among the towering peaks and expansive forests of the Rocky Mountains lies a vibrant
array of wildlife. When you witness a fawn galloping across a meadow, you might not consider
the daily choices they make that could shape their survival, mating, and overall well-being. From
the majestic elk to the elusive mountain lion, these animals face dilemmas akin to the popular
game "Would You Rather." Let's explore some of the fascinating choices that Rocky Mountain
animals must make.

If you were an elk would you stick to familiar grazing grounds or venture into uncharted territory where the grass might be greener but where mountain lions may lurk?

Foraging for Food: The Elk’s Dilemma

Imagine you’re a majestic elk, roaming the stunning meadows of Colorado. With summer’s bounty in full swing, you have a critical decision: do you stick to familiar grazing grounds or venture into uncharted territory, where the grass might be greener but where mountain lions may lurk? Rising temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns are altering the composition and availability of vegetation in your traditional grazing grounds, but elk often prefer familiar feeding areas to avoid becoming someone's dinner. So, would you rather nibble on predictable patches or risk it all for a salad bar of unknown delights?

Nesting Strategies: The Bird’s Choice

Now, let’s soar over to the feathered residents of the Rockies. Picture a daring mountain bluebird, contemplating where to build its nest. A secure nest provides a safe haven for eggs and fledglings, protecting them from predators and harsh weather conditions. Should you go for the cozy cover of a dense shrub or tree hollow, offering protection from predators, or opt for an open perch with stunning views and easier access to food? While nests in shrubs may keep you safe, they can make food access tricky. The decision can influence not only individual survival rates but also the reproductive success of these species.

If you were a mountain goat would you rather engage in aggressive head-butting to impress the ladies, or play it cool with some suave courtship moves?

Mating Tactics: The Mountain Goats Decision

Let’s not forget our mountain goats, currently engrossed in mating season. Male goats face an important choice: should they flex their muscles and engage in aggressive head-butting to impress the ladies, or play it cool with some suave courtship moves? While the tough-guy approach may be impressive, it can lead to serious injuries. Conversely, less aggressive males might conserve energy but could miss opportunities to mate. This delicate balance between aggression and strategy reflects the intricate dynamics of mating behavior in the rugged mountain terrain. Would you rather risk a concussion for love or serenade your crush with a gentle bleat?

Water Source: Everyone’s Predicament

Consider a young deer navigating the dry summer months. Should you travel to a distant creek where water is plentiful but predators lurk, or stick to a nearby pond that is drying up, risking dehydration? Research from the Colorado Water Conservation Board highlights the increasing pressure on water resources, forcing many species to adapt their behaviors and migration patterns to secure hydration. The choices made by wildlife not only affect their individual survival but also influence the delicate balance of the entire ecosystem. Would you rather take the risk of venturing into the unknown for a drink or stay close to home and risk dehydration? In this landscape, every drop counts, and the choices made could have lasting impacts on both wildlife and their habitats.

As summer unfolds in the Rockies, animals are living out their own versions of “Would You Rather?” From foraging and nesting to mating and hydration, each choice shapes their existence. Next time you’re out enjoying some summer shenanigans, take a moment to appreciate the tough choices these creatures make every day—and perhaps ponder your own dilemmas, like “Would you rather hike or lounge by the pool?”

Lucy Trosper is Lead Naturalist at Walking Mountains who loves exploring all of nature's quandaries.