Alpine Marmot (Marmota marmota)

The Alpine Marmot is a squirrel relative found in Central and Southern Europe. It resides in rocky terrain and lush alpine meadows between 800 and 3,200 meters above sea level. 

The marmot digs burrows for shelter that can reach depths up to 3 meters, often located among the region's native flora, which makes up the marmot's diet. 

Likewise, the Alpine Marmot usually lives in colonies of up to 20 members. Each colony is a large family led by a dominant breeding pair and filled with their offspring.

Alpine marmots are hardy creatures built for survival in harsh climates. These squirrels hibernate  for up to nine months during the icy winters, only emerging when spring arrives. 

The Alpine marmot also does a unique whistle, echoing through the mountain air, which signals the rest of the colony that danger is near.

Alpine Salamander (Salamandra atra)

The Alpine Salamander lives in the European Alps and is distinguishable by its jet-black body. It has adapted to the region's rugged peaks and lush forests, with altitudes ranging from 2,300 to 6,600 feet. 

Interestingly, Alpine salamanders follow the viviparous reproductive method6, which allows them to give birth to live young. This is a trait uncommon in other amphibians.

Pine Ladybird (Exochomus quadripustulatus)

The Pine Ladybird has a black coat with four red spots. This beetle has become an adventurous species, crossing continents to live in pine forests and plantations in North America. 

This type of ladybug showcases a nearly circular, glossy shape with a base flange. Typically, its black wing cover displays two prominent red spots and two smaller ones, which may be orange or yellow.

They control scale insects that damage pine trees. Female Pine Ladybirds lay eggs among these pests to ensure their hatchlings have an abundant food source upon hatching.

Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta)

Lodgepole pine, a common tree in the pine family, is native to western North America and Canada. Its natural range extends from Alaska in the north to California in the south, from the Pacific coast to the east of the Rockies. It can grow up to 50 feet, but some varieties are shrubs that reach only 10 feet.

Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)

Eastern white pine is a native species of North America. This Maine and Michigan state tree has gray-brown barks, broad ridges, and scaly plates. It can grow between 50 to 80 feet tall.

ALPINE GOAT

Alpine goats average 30-40 inches at the withers, or shoulders, and weigh 135-170 lbs. Males often have long hair along their spine and more pronounced beards. Colors can vary considerably and can include white, fawn, gray, black, red, etc. They have tall, slightly curved horns and erect ears.

Umbrella Pine Plant

Evergreen conifers like umbrella pine (Sciadopitys verticillata) are a timeless choice for front yards. "It has large, coarse needles that grow in whorls while the trunk gets a reddish, stringy bark," says Tyler Altenburger, arborist manager at Longwood Gardens. "Dwarf varieties are available for tighter landscapes."

Plum Pine Plants

Plum pine (Podocarpus) is an evergreen shrub with foliage that creates a year-round privacy screen. "Podocarpus is like having a living fence that puts on a colorful show throughout the year," says Putnam. "With its fast growth and easy maintenance, you'll be enjoying a lush, green barrier in no time. Plus, it tolerates some shade, making it a versatile option for many landscapes."

Alpine Currant 'Green Mound'

Compact, deep green Alpine Currant "Green Mound" (Ribes alpinum 'Green Mound') is Tegland's go-to foundation plant. "This shrub does really well in the shade," she says. "It'll also stay nice and compact with a little pruning. I've almost never seen a deer eat it."

Eastern White Pine Tree

Named after its smooth, pale-colored bark, the eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) grows tall and straight and showcases long and flexible needles grouped in bundles of five. It has a graceful appearance that makes it an elegant addition to any yard, particularly as an ornamental accent. The growth is slow in its first few years, but after that, it takes off.