Lubbock, Texas is a haven for a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. From the striped skunk (Mephitis mefitis) to the domestic cat (Felis catus), the area is teeming with wildlife. In the second half of the 20th century, the science of mammology saw a surge in Texas, leading to an abundance of research and educational opportunities. The Marine Mammal Stranding Network was established in 1981 and has since collected data on thousands of marine mammals that have washed up on Texas beaches.
This information, combined with aerial and on-board studies, has enabled researchers to compile a list of 16 known species in the Gulf. Climate change models suggest that environmental variables in Texas could change rapidly, resulting in changes to the distribution and diversity of mammals. This is especially true for Padre Island, which has a greater number of species than Galveston Island due to its larger size and higher overall diversity of mammals. In 1905, Vernon Bailey, chief naturalist of the survey and director of field efforts in Texas, published a 1922-page report entitled Biological Survey of Texas. This report summarized the results of the survey and included two Texas species organized into their respective genera.
Since then, several mammals have extended their range in Texas, including the furry legged vampire bat (Diphylla ecaudata), southwestern small brown myotis (Myotis occultus), and northern eared myotis (Myotis septentrionalis).The study of mammals in Lubbock is an ongoing process that requires constant monitoring and research. With climate change affecting the environment, it is important to understand how these changes will affect the distribution and diversity of mammals in the area. By studying these animals, researchers can gain insight into how climate change will affect their populations and how best to protect them. The City of Lubbock has taken steps to protect its wildlife by creating a Wildlife Management Plan that outlines strategies for protecting wildlife habitats and species. The plan also includes guidelines for managing human-wildlife conflicts.
Additionally, the city has established a Wildlife Conservation Area where visitors can observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The City of Lubbock also offers educational programs for children and adults about local wildlife. These programs provide an opportunity for people to learn more about the mammals that inhabit their city and how they can help protect them. The study of mammals in Lubbock is an important part of understanding how climate change will affect our environment. By studying these animals, researchers can gain insight into how climate change will affect their populations and how best to protect them.
