The Upper Peninsula contains 29% of the land area of Michigan but just 3% of its total population. Residents are called "Yoopers" (derived from "UP-ers") and have a strong regional identity. Although proposals have been made to establish the UP as a separate state, they have failed to gain traction. Its largest cities are Marquette, Sault Ste. Marie, Escanaba, Menominee, Houghton, and Iron Mountain. Because of the surrounding waters and northern latitude, it receives more snow than most of the eastern U.S. The heavily forested land, soil types, short growing season and logistical factors (e.g. long distance to market, lack of infrastructure) make the Upper Peninsula poorly suited for agriculture. The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, wolves, coyotes, elk, deer, foxes, bears, bobcats, eagles, hawks, owls, and smaller animals.