1. Natural Salt Deposits: This is the most common meaning. Salt licks are areas of land where minerals, especially salt, naturally seep to the surface. These areas are often found in dry, arid regions.
* Wildlife Importance: Salt licks are vital for wildlife, particularly herbivores like deer, elk, and bison. These animals need salt for proper bodily function, and they often congregate at salt licks to consume the minerals.
* Conservation: Salt licks are often protected as important wildlife habitats.
2. Artificial Salt Supplies: These are man-made structures designed to provide salt to animals. They come in various forms:
* Salt Blocks: These are solid blocks of salt placed in fields or pastures for animals to lick.
* Salt Water Tanks: These tanks contain a salt solution that animals can drink.
* Mineral Blocks: These blocks are a combination of salt and other minerals, offering a more complete nutritional supplement for livestock.
3. Idiomatic Expression: "Salt lick" can be used figuratively to describe a place that is very attractive to people, particularly if it is associated with something pleasurable, like:
* A place with good food and drinks
* A location with a lively social scene
Therefore, the specific meaning of "salt licks" depends on the context. It can be a natural geological feature, an artificial feeding supplement, or a metaphorical expression.