Animals that are active during the twilight hours and dawn are known as crepuscular animals. While bats are nocturnal and horses are diurnal, crepuscular animals like coyotes, deer, and rabbits are most active during the hours around sunrise and sunset.
These animals have evolved to take advantage of the low light levels during these times, allowing them to hunt for food and avoid predators without the harsh light of day or complete darkness of night. The term "crepuscular" comes from the Latin word "crepusculum," which means twilight.
Coyotes, in particular, are well-known crepuscular animals. They are often seen and heard howling as the sun sets or rises, signaling the start or end of their hunting activities. Other animals that are crepuscular include skunks, bobcats, and certain species of birds and insects.
Being crepuscular has its advantages for these animals. They can avoid the intense heat of the midday sun while still being able to see and move around easily. This allows them to find food, mate, and interact with others of their species during these optimal times.
For photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, the hours around sunrise and sunset are prime times to observe and capture crepuscular animals in their natural habitats. The soft, golden light of the sun at these times can create stunning images of these creatures as they go about their daily routines.
In conclusion, while bats are nocturnal and horses are diurnal, animals that are active during the twilight hours and dawn are known as crepuscular animals. These creatures have adapted to thrive during the hours of low light, taking advantage of the benefits that come with being active during these special times of day.
Next time you find yourself out in nature during the early morning or evening hours, keep an eye out for the signs of crepuscular animals around you. You may just catch a glimpse of a coyote on the prowl or a deer grazing peacefully in the fading light.
Eight
Lawyer
350
Half man, half horse
1954
Liverpool
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