It is crucial that organisms continue to make adaptions so that they are able to survive in their environments.
Eastern grey squirrels are known to communicate with other individuals through both body language and a variety of vocalizations. When they sense danger or a suspected predator they often warn each other with a variety of calls. One adaptation that is extremely beneficial to a squirrel's lifestyle is the anatomy of their back legs. Squirrels are able to rotate their hind feet which allows them to descend down a tree head first. This is helpful for avoiding predation as well as reaching for food and traveling from tree to tree. They also have a heightened olfactory sense. This aids them in their search for food. A good memory also helps them to rediscover the food that they have hidden and stored for winter.
Ponderosa Pines are beautiful trees located in the Grand Canyon that have adapted due to the heat. These trees bark grows up to 4 inches thick and protects the tree's living cambium. They also now shed their lower branches as they grow to keep their needles away from ground flames.
Rocky Mountain elk are not adapted to the arid climate of Arizona. As a result, these animals have expanded their range in search of water sources, of which Grand Canyon and its neighboring forests have many. Elk are drawn to stock tanks, ephemeral pools, run-off areas, and unnatural lawns like those found near the historic lodges in Grand Canyon Village.
The Creosote bush is the most characteristic feature of North America's hot deserts. It is one of the best examples of a plant that tolerates arid conditions simply by its toughness. It competes aggressively with other plants for water, and usually wins, accounting for its prevalence in many arid locations of the southwest. Creosote Bush has small waxy covered leaves which resist water loss. It also tends to drop its leaves in the hot summer which enhances its ability to withstand heat and drought.