1. Why is texture so important to have in your sketches?
It is important because it allows you to see the way the animal would feel.  Also you can see the background and how it relates to the animal.  Lastly it makes the animal more realistic. 

2. Why is it necessary for you to have several references of each animal and each background? Explain.

It gives a variety of views to chose from.  It also gives you a better understanding of how the animal and background look.  It lastly helps you look for the animals texture.

3. When you look at your sketches are you able to see which sketch is the strongest and will make the best print? How do you know this?

Yes because you can tell which textures are better then others.  Also it will give a cool looking texture to make the animal look alive.