The Laramie Mountains stand in striking contrast to the primarily flat to rolling prairies of southeastern Wyoming and are important to wildlife in the state. With increasing elevation, average annual temperature declines and average annual precipitation increases. Their rugged terrain creates south-facing slopes with abundant sunlight and north-facing slopes with very little, and most trees grow on the north slope, where snow accumulates and soil moisture lasts longer. Rough, rugged ground also provides holes, cracks, and crevices that animals use as dens or nesting areas, along with sheltered places where soil accumulates and different plants can grow. These conditions attract a variety of animals, and the contrasting vegetation, topography, and large wide-open spaces of Wyoming make it home to over 600 species of wildlife.