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Habitat Hall - Alpine/Montane
 High and Rugged Mountain Habitats (Alpine/Montane)
The Rocky Mountains are high and rugged, rising over 14,000 feet. Conditions on the mountain tops resemble the tundra with harsh climate, thin, rocky soil, and sparse vegetation. Farther down the mountain side, the climate is less severe and there are meadows and coniferous forests.
Summer in the Rockies
High in the Rocky Mountains, a male elk spends the summer feeding in grassy meadows. Elk, also known as wapiti, move to lower elevations in the winter in search of food. In the distance a large area of the forest has been cut for timbering the habitats of the elk, and disrupting the ecosystem.
Threats to Mountain Habitats
 The meadows and forests of the high Rocky Mountains are home to elk, bear, bighorn sheep, and many other mammals and birds. These habitats are threatened by our growing needs for energy, recreation, and other consumer goods.
Large tracts of forests have been cut clear of timber. Mining operations have promoted erosion and release of toxic chemicals to soils and rivers. Overgrazing by sheep and cattle has damaged meadows and streams. Vacation and ski resorts provide access to nature, but disrupt it at the same time.
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The meadows and forests of the high Rocky Mountains are home to elk, bear, bighorn sheep, and many other mammals and birds. These habitats are threatened by our growing needs for energy, recreation, and other consumer goods.
