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[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"media_large","fid":"39306","attributes":{"class":"media-image","typeof":"foaf:Image","style":"","alt":"Animal Secrets Deer"}}]]Indiana's wild habitats hide many secrets! From the Hoosier National Forest to your own backyard, animals are everywhere—if you know where to look. Here are the answers to some interesting questions about animals you'll find in Animal Secrets, open Feb. 8–May 4 at The Children's Museum.
How high can the deer jump?
With their long, powerful legs, deer can run up to 40 miles per hour and jump over a six-foot tall person!
More deer facts: Deer establish a territory and never leave it. They are herbivores, which means they only eat plants. They have a four-chambered stomach.
How does the bear find food?
Bears, like humans, use trails and roads to get to their food and water sources. They can catch big fish with their sharp teeth and powerful jaws.
More bear facts: A male bear is called a boar, a female bear is called a sow, and a baby bear is called a cub. North America is home to the grizzly (brown) bear, polar bear, and black bear.
What makes the eagle bald?
The bald eagle is not actually bald—it has white feathers on its head, neck, and tail that make it look as if it's bald when viewed from a distance!
More eagle facts: The bald eagle can swim! They use an overhand movement of their wings, which resembles a butterfly stroke. When in normal flight, a bald eagle can fly 20 to 40 miles per hour.
How does the beaver swim?
A flat tail is a beaver's trademark. They use it to propel themselves through the water. They slap their tail against the water to warn others of danger. Beavers are designed to swim and work underwater. Their nose and ear valves close when submerged.
More beaver facts: Baby beavers are called kits. Beavers are among the largest rodents. They're herbivores and prefer to eat leaves, bark, twigs, roots, and aquatic plants.
Where does the raccoon live?
Raccoons never nest more than 1,200 feet from a permanent water source. Common raccoons live in hollow trees or rocky dens. In colder areas they live in burrows. Raccoons usually come out only at night to look for food.
More raccoon facts: Raccoons are often described as the "masked bandit" because of their unique facial markings and colorings. They have a keen sense of hearing, sight, and touch. But their sense of taste and smell are less developed.
