Animals / Wildlife: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Facts About Owls
Learn interesting facts about owls and find out what makes owls unique including their distinct calls, nocturnal habits and silent flight.
Learn interesting facts about owls and find out what makes owls unique including their distinct calls, nocturnal habits and silent flight.
Animal Profiles - A to Z List
The following is an A to Z list of animal profiles available, sorted alphabetically by common name.
The following is an A to Z list of animal profiles available, sorted alphabetically by common name.
Mammal Characteristics
Mammal characteristics include numerous adaptations that enable them to survive in a wide range of environments. This article explores the key characteristics that together distinguish mammals from other animal groups.
Mammal characteristics include numerous adaptations that enable them to survive in a wide range of environments. This article explores the key characteristics that together distinguish mammals from other animal groups.
The Basic Animal Groups
An understanding of the main groups of animals provides a good foundation for further learning. In this article, we'll take a look at six groups of animals, their characteristics and the types of organisms that belong to each group.
An understanding of the main groups of animals provides a good foundation for further learning. In this article, we'll take a look at six groups of animals, their characteristics and the types of organisms that belong to each group.
Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes
All living organisms can be sorted into one of two groups depending on the fundamental structure of their cells. These two groups are the prokaryotes and the eukaryotes.
All living organisms can be sorted into one of two groups depending on the fundamental structure of their cells. These two groups are the prokaryotes and the eukaryotes.
The 10 Largest Mammals
The mammals listed here are the biggest and the bulkiest that inhabit our planet today. This article explores the facts and figures that place these mammals at the top of their class when it comes to size and stature.
The mammals listed here are the biggest and the bulkiest that inhabit our planet today. This article explores the facts and figures that place these mammals at the top of their class when it comes to size and stature.
Animal Characteristics
Here we'll explore facts and information about animals so we can easily identify they key characteristics of an animal.
Here we'll explore facts and information about animals so we can easily identify they key characteristics of an animal.
Facts About Octopuses
From clouds of ink to chromatophores, there's more to octopi than eight arms.
From clouds of ink to chromatophores, there's more to octopi than eight arms.
10 Conservation Groups
A personal inventory of the first ten organizations that come to mind when I donate my money to protect wildlife. There are many superb organizations, I'm certain this list could easily be lengthened. Still, if you're new to conservation or are looking for a well-established, reputable organization to join, this is a good starting point.
A personal inventory of the first ten organizations that come to mind when I donate my money to protect wildlife. There are many superb organizations, I'm certain this list could easily be lengthened. Still, if you're new to conservation or are looking for a well-established, reputable organization to join, this is a good starting point.
Facts About Giraffes
Learn interesting facts about giraffes and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other even-toed hoofed mammals.
Learn interesting facts about giraffes and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other even-toed hoofed mammals.
Arthropods
Arthropods includes insects, spiders, crustaceans, scorpions, and centipedes. In this article, we'll explore basic facts about arthropods including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Arthropods includes insects, spiders, crustaceans, scorpions, and centipedes. In this article, we'll explore basic facts about arthropods including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Mammal Profiles - A to Z List
The following is an A to Z list of mammal profiles available, sorted alphabetically.
The following is an A to Z list of mammal profiles available, sorted alphabetically.
How to Protect Wildlife
It is often easy to feel overwhelmed in the face of species loss and habitat destruction. The problem is large and complex—it's common for individuals to feel powerless. Yet, everything we do is vitally important. We may only do a little bit in the grand scheme of things, but together our seemingly small actions add up to a lot.
It is often easy to feel overwhelmed in the face of species loss and habitat destruction. The problem is large and complex—it's common for individuals to feel powerless. Yet, everything we do is vitally important. We may only do a little bit in the grand scheme of things, but together our seemingly small actions add up to a lot.
Great Barrier Reef Animals
Animals of the Great Barrier Reef
Animals of the Great Barrier Reef
Facts About Birds
Learn interesting facts about birds and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Learn interesting facts about birds and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Facts About Amphibians
Learn interesting facts about amphibians and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Learn interesting facts about amphibians and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Cnidarian Characteristics
Cnidarians are diverse and come in many shapes and sizes but there are some basic features of their anatomy that most share in common.
Cnidarians are diverse and come in many shapes and sizes but there are some basic features of their anatomy that most share in common.
Facts About Jellyfish
In this article, you'll learn interesting facts about jellyfish and find out about their unique characteristics, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
In this article, you'll learn interesting facts about jellyfish and find out about their unique characteristics, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Facts About Frogs
Learn interesting facts about frogs and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other amphibian groups.
Learn interesting facts about frogs and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other amphibian groups.
What Do Turtles Eat?
What do turtles eat? Since turtles are too slow to catch most prey by all-out pursuit, questions about what turtles eat are quite common. The answer is that turtle eating habits are varied—what turtles eat depends on the available food sources, the habitat in which the turtle lives and the turtle's behavior.
What do turtles eat? Since turtles are too slow to catch most prey by all-out pursuit, questions about what turtles eat are quite common. The answer is that turtle eating habits are varied—what turtles eat depends on the available food sources, the habitat in which the turtle lives and the turtle's behavior.
Facts About Reptiles
Learn interesting facts about reptiles and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Learn interesting facts about reptiles and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
What Is a Niche?
The term niche is used to describe the role an organism or population plays within its community or ecosystem. It encompasses all relationships that the organism (or population) has with its environment and with other organisms and populations in its environment.
The term niche is used to describe the role an organism or population plays within its community or ecosystem. It encompasses all relationships that the organism (or population) has with its environment and with other organisms and populations in its environment.
Facts About Fishes
Learn interesting facts about fishes and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Learn interesting facts about fishes and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Facts About Dolphins
Learn interesting facts about dolphins and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Learn interesting facts about dolphins and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Ten Animals of the Amazon
The Amazon rainforest is a moist broadleaf forest that blankets 5,400,000 square kilometers of the Amazon River basin in South America. The shear vastness of this forest is difficult to comprehend. It stretches across the boundaries of nine nations—Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
The Amazon rainforest is a moist broadleaf forest that blankets 5,400,000 square kilometers of the Amazon River basin in South America. The shear vastness of this forest is difficult to comprehend. It stretches across the boundaries of nine nations—Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
Facts About Bears
Bears are a group of carnivores known for their burly build, impressive agility and, in some species, their winter sleep habits. There are eight species of bears that inhabit a wide range of habitats throughout North and South America, Europe and Asia.
Bears are a group of carnivores known for their burly build, impressive agility and, in some species, their winter sleep habits. There are eight species of bears that inhabit a wide range of habitats throughout North and South America, Europe and Asia.
Facts About Zebras
Zebras, with their familiar horse-like physique and their distinct black and white striping pattern, are among the most recognizable of all mammals. We learn at an early age to distinguish zebras from other animals (when learning the alphabet, youngsters are often shown a picture of a zebra and are taught 'Z is for Zebra').
Zebras, with their familiar horse-like physique and their distinct black and white striping pattern, are among the most recognizable of all mammals. We learn at an early age to distinguish zebras from other animals (when learning the alphabet, youngsters are often shown a picture of a zebra and are taught 'Z is for Zebra').
Snail Classification
Snails are invertebrates, they lack a backbone. They belong to a large and highly diverse group of invertebrates known as the Phylum Mollusca (also known more commonly as 'mollusks'). The Phylum Mollusca includes slugs, clams, oysters, mussels, squids, octopuses, and nautiluses, in addition to snails.
Snails are invertebrates, they lack a backbone. They belong to a large and highly diverse group of invertebrates known as the Phylum Mollusca (also known more commonly as 'mollusks'). The Phylum Mollusca includes slugs, clams, oysters, mussels, squids, octopuses, and nautiluses, in addition to snails.
Facts About Mammals
Learn interesting facts about mammals and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Learn interesting facts about mammals and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Chordates
The unifying characteristic of chordates (Phylum Chordata) is the presense of a notochord (an internal skeletal rod that provides support) during some stage of the animal's development.
The unifying characteristic of chordates (Phylum Chordata) is the presense of a notochord (an internal skeletal rod that provides support) during some stage of the animal's development.
Habitat Destruction
Habitat destruction is the process by which natural habitat is damaged or destroyed to such an extent that it no longer is capable of supporting the species and ecological communities that naturally occur there.
Habitat destruction is the process by which natural habitat is damaged or destroyed to such an extent that it no longer is capable of supporting the species and ecological communities that naturally occur there.
Insects - Class Insecta
Insects are a highly successful group of animals. The Insecta account for more species of animals than any other class of animals.
Insects are a highly successful group of animals. The Insecta account for more species of animals than any other class of animals.
How Many Species
The estimated number of animals on our planet falls somewhere in the vast range of 3-30 million species (Erwin 1983, Wolosz 1988).
The estimated number of animals on our planet falls somewhere in the vast range of 3-30 million species (Erwin 1983, Wolosz 1988).
Evolution
Natural selection is the means by which beneficial variations in a population tend to be preserved while unfavorable variations tend to be lost.
Natural selection is the means by which beneficial variations in a population tend to be preserved while unfavorable variations tend to be lost.
Facts About Arthropods
Arthropods are invertebrates that include insects, spiders, crustaceans, scorpions, and centipedes. Arthropods are a highly successful group of animals.
Arthropods are invertebrates that include insects, spiders, crustaceans, scorpions, and centipedes. Arthropods are a highly successful group of animals.
Molluscs
Molluscs are a group of invertebrates that includes squid, octopuses, cuttlefish, nudibranchs, snails, slugs, limpets, sea hares, mussels, clams, oysters, scallops, as well as many less well-known animals. In this article, we'll explore basic facts about molluscs including how they are classified, what they eat and where they live.
Molluscs are a group of invertebrates that includes squid, octopuses, cuttlefish, nudibranchs, snails, slugs, limpets, sea hares, mussels, clams, oysters, scallops, as well as many less well-known animals. In this article, we'll explore basic facts about molluscs including how they are classified, what they eat and where they live.
Mammals
Mammals are a group of four-legged vertebrates that have hair, a four chambered heart and mammary glands. This profile explores basic facts about mammals including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Mammals are a group of four-legged vertebrates that have hair, a four chambered heart and mammary glands. This profile explores basic facts about mammals including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Descent with Modification
Descent with modification refers to the passing on of traits from parent organisms to their offspring.
Descent with modification refers to the passing on of traits from parent organisms to their offspring.
Bird Characteristics
Bird characteristics include numerous adaptations for flight such as feathers, a furcula and hollow bones. This article explores the key characteristics that together distinguish birds from other animal groups.
Bird characteristics include numerous adaptations for flight such as feathers, a furcula and hollow bones. This article explores the key characteristics that together distinguish birds from other animal groups.
Life Cycle of a Jellyfish
The most recognized image of a jellyfish is that of the adult jellyfish, with its bell-shaped body and long tentacles.
The most recognized image of a jellyfish is that of the adult jellyfish, with its bell-shaped body and long tentacles.
Ten Animals of North America
Ten Animals of North America
Ten Animals of North America
Lion
The lion (Panthera leo) is a species of large cat that has a buff colored coat, white underparts, and a long tail that ends in a black tuft of fur. Lions are the second largest species of cat, they are smaller than the tiger (Panthera tigris).
The lion (Panthera leo) is a species of large cat that has a buff colored coat, white underparts, and a long tail that ends in a black tuft of fur. Lions are the second largest species of cat, they are smaller than the tiger (Panthera tigris).
The Basic Mammal Groups
The different types of mammals are classified into 21 groups including aardvarks, bats, carnivores, cetaceans, elephants, marsupials, primates, rodents and many others. This article explores mammal classification in order to better understand their diversity and common characteristics.
The different types of mammals are classified into 21 groups including aardvarks, bats, carnivores, cetaceans, elephants, marsupials, primates, rodents and many others. This article explores mammal classification in order to better understand their diversity and common characteristics.
Facts About Great Horned Owls
Learn interesting facts about great horned owls and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Learn interesting facts about great horned owls and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
What is a Deciduous Forest?
The term deciduous forest is used to describe a type of forest in which the dominant species of trees and other woody vegetation that make up the forest are those species that shed their leaves during the cold months of the year and re-grows new leaves the next spring in time for the growing season.
The term deciduous forest is used to describe a type of forest in which the dominant species of trees and other woody vegetation that make up the forest are those species that shed their leaves during the cold months of the year and re-grows new leaves the next spring in time for the growing season.
Facts About Molluscs
Molluscs are invertebrates that include animals such as squid, octopuses, cuttlefish, nudibranchs, snails, slugs, limpets, sea hares, mussels, clams, oysters, scallops, as well as many lesser known creatures.
Molluscs are invertebrates that include animals such as squid, octopuses, cuttlefish, nudibranchs, snails, slugs, limpets, sea hares, mussels, clams, oysters, scallops, as well as many lesser known creatures.
Jellyfish
Jellyfish (Scyphozoa) are delicate, soft-bodied animals. They are invertebrates--jellyfish have no bones, exoskeleton, or shell to protect or support them.
Jellyfish (Scyphozoa) are delicate, soft-bodied animals. They are invertebrates--jellyfish have no bones, exoskeleton, or shell to protect or support them.
Tiger Pictures
Tigers are the largest and most powerful of all cats. They are extremely agile despite their bulk and can leap between 8 and 10 meters in a single bound. They are also among the most recognizable of cats thanks to their distinct orange coat, black stripes and white markings.
Tigers are the largest and most powerful of all cats. They are extremely agile despite their bulk and can leap between 8 and 10 meters in a single bound. They are also among the most recognizable of cats thanks to their distinct orange coat, black stripes and white markings.
What Is a Keystone Species?
A keystone species is a species that plays a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community and whose impact on the community is greater than would be expected based on its relative abundance or total biomass.
A keystone species is a species that plays a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community and whose impact on the community is greater than would be expected based on its relative abundance or total biomass.
Facts About Invertebrates
Learn interesting facts about invertebrates and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Learn interesting facts about invertebrates and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other animal groups.
Echinoderms
Echinoderms are a diverse group of marine invertebrates comprising approximately 6000 species. This profile explores basic facts about echinoderms including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other invertebrate groups.
Echinoderms are a diverse group of marine invertebrates comprising approximately 6000 species. This profile explores basic facts about echinoderms including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other invertebrate groups.
Cartilaginous Fishes
Sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras together make up a group of fishes known as the cartilaginous fishes (Chondrichthyes). This group includes the largest and most formidable marine predators alive today.
Sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras together make up a group of fishes known as the cartilaginous fishes (Chondrichthyes). This group includes the largest and most formidable marine predators alive today.
Endangered Species
An animal or plant species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
An animal or plant species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
Facts About Animals
Learn interesting facts about animals and find out about the characteristics make them different from other groups of living organisms.
Learn interesting facts about animals and find out about the characteristics make them different from other groups of living organisms.
African Elephant
The African elephant is the largest living land mammal. The African elephant is one of only two species of elephants alive today, the other species is the smaller Asian elephant. Learn interesting facts about African savanna elephants and find out what makes them unique.
The African elephant is the largest living land mammal. The African elephant is one of only two species of elephants alive today, the other species is the smaller Asian elephant. Learn interesting facts about African savanna elephants and find out what makes them unique.
Vertebrate Evolution
Vertebrates are a well-known group of animals that includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The defining characteristic of vertebrates is their backbone, a trait that showed up in the fossil record about 500 million years ago during the Ordovician period.
Vertebrates are a well-known group of animals that includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The defining characteristic of vertebrates is their backbone, a trait that showed up in the fossil record about 500 million years ago during the Ordovician period.
Facts About Snowy Owls
Learn interesting facts about snowy owls and find out about the characteristics make them different from other owls, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Learn interesting facts about snowy owls and find out about the characteristics make them different from other owls, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Lion Pride
Lions are the only cat species that forms social groups. All other cats are lone hunters. The social groups lions form are called prides. A pride of lions typically includes about five females and two males and their young.
Lions are the only cat species that forms social groups. All other cats are lone hunters. The social groups lions form are called prides. A pride of lions typically includes about five females and two males and their young.
Reptiles
Reptiles are vertebrates that colonized terrestrial habitats more extensively than their amphibian ancestors. This profile explores basic facts about reptiles including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Reptiles are vertebrates that colonized terrestrial habitats more extensively than their amphibian ancestors. This profile explores basic facts about reptiles including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
What Is Desertification?
Desertification is the development of desert-like conditions in regions that have experienced human disturbance such as deforestation, overgrazing, or poorly managed agriculture.
Desertification is the development of desert-like conditions in regions that have experienced human disturbance such as deforestation, overgrazing, or poorly managed agriculture.
The Life Cycle of a Frog
The life cycle of a frog consists of three stages: egg, larva, and adult. This article explores the many developmental changes a frog experiences throughout its lifetime.
The life cycle of a frog consists of three stages: egg, larva, and adult. This article explores the many developmental changes a frog experiences throughout its lifetime.
Heterotroph
A heterotroph is an organism that is unable to obtain its carbon from carbon dioxide. Instead, heterotrophs obtain carbon from organic material such as other organisms, living or dead.
A heterotroph is an organism that is unable to obtain its carbon from carbon dioxide. Instead, heterotrophs obtain carbon from organic material such as other organisms, living or dead.
What Is a Wetland?
Wetlands are habitats that fall somewhere on the environmental spectrum between land and water.
Wetlands are habitats that fall somewhere on the environmental spectrum between land and water.
Arctic Wolf
The Arctic wolf (Canis lupus arctos) is a subspecies of the Grey wolf (Canis lupus). Adult Arctic wolves are between 25 and 31 inches in height (measured at shoulder) and reach weights of up to 175 pounds. Females tend to be smaller and lighter than males. They measure between 3 and 5 feet from head to tail. Their thick coat is off-white.
The Arctic wolf (Canis lupus arctos) is a subspecies of the Grey wolf (Canis lupus). Adult Arctic wolves are between 25 and 31 inches in height (measured at shoulder) and reach weights of up to 175 pounds. Females tend to be smaller and lighter than males. They measure between 3 and 5 feet from head to tail. Their thick coat is off-white.
Amphibians
Amphibians arose from the first vertebrates to venture out of water and adapt to life on land. This profile explores basic facts about amphibians including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Amphibians arose from the first vertebrates to venture out of water and adapt to life on land. This profile explores basic facts about amphibians including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
The Basic Amphibian Groups
The different types of amphibians are classified into 3 groups including salamanders and newts, caecilians and frogs and toads. This article explores amphibian classification in order to better understand their diversity and common characteristics.
The different types of amphibians are classified into 3 groups including salamanders and newts, caecilians and frogs and toads. This article explores amphibian classification in order to better understand their diversity and common characteristics.
Sponges
Sponges are a group of simple aquatic invertebrates that include glass sponges, demisponges, and calcareous sponges. This profile explores basic facts about sponges including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other invertebrate groups.
Sponges are a group of simple aquatic invertebrates that include glass sponges, demisponges, and calcareous sponges. This profile explores basic facts about sponges including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other invertebrate groups.
Quiz - Basic Mammal Groups
Put your animal identification skills to the test in this quiz.
Put your animal identification skills to the test in this quiz.
Species
The term species can be defined as a group of individual organisms that are capable of interbreeding to produce fertile offspring in nature.
The term species can be defined as a group of individual organisms that are capable of interbreeding to produce fertile offspring in nature.
Facts About Marsupials
Learn interesting facts about marsupials and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Learn interesting facts about marsupials and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
The Basic Bird Groups
The different types of birds are classified into 30 groups including birds of prey, buttonquails, gamebirds, herons, hummingbirds, kingfishers, loons, owls, parrots, perching birds, rheas, waterfowl and many others. In this article, we'll explore bird classification in order to better understand the many different types of birds.
The different types of birds are classified into 30 groups including birds of prey, buttonquails, gamebirds, herons, hummingbirds, kingfishers, loons, owls, parrots, perching birds, rheas, waterfowl and many others. In this article, we'll explore bird classification in order to better understand the many different types of birds.
Vertebrates and Invertebrates
Among the most fundamental criteria by which animals are sorted is whether or not they possess a backbone. This distinction places an animal into one of two groups: the vertebrates or the invertebrates.
Among the most fundamental criteria by which animals are sorted is whether or not they possess a backbone. This distinction places an animal into one of two groups: the vertebrates or the invertebrates.
Lion Pictures
Lions are the largest of all African cats. They are the second largest cat species worldwide, smaller than only the tiger. Lions range in color from nearly white to tawny yellow, ash brown, ochre, and deep orange-brown. They have a tuft of dark fur at the tip of their tail.
Lions are the largest of all African cats. They are the second largest cat species worldwide, smaller than only the tiger. Lions range in color from nearly white to tawny yellow, ash brown, ochre, and deep orange-brown. They have a tuft of dark fur at the tip of their tail.
Lions, Tigers, Leopards, Cheetahs and Other Cats
In this photographic guide, find out more about cats, their classification, adaptations, and natural history.
In this photographic guide, find out more about cats, their classification, adaptations, and natural history.
Invertebrate
nvertebrates are animals that lack a backbone. Invertebrates account for more than 97% of all species alive today. They include animal groups such as sponges, cnidarians, flatworms, molluscs, arthropods, insects, segmented worms, and echinoderms as well as many other lesser-known groups of animals.
nvertebrates are animals that lack a backbone. Invertebrates account for more than 97% of all species alive today. They include animal groups such as sponges, cnidarians, flatworms, molluscs, arthropods, insects, segmented worms, and echinoderms as well as many other lesser-known groups of animals.
Elephants
Elephants belong a group of mammals that consists of only one family, the Family Elephantidea.
Elephants belong a group of mammals that consists of only one family, the Family Elephantidea.
Cnidarians
Cnidarians are a group of aquatic invertebrates that includes jellyfish, corals, sea anemones and hydras. This profile explores basic facts about cnidarians including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other invertebrate groups.
Cnidarians are a group of aquatic invertebrates that includes jellyfish, corals, sea anemones and hydras. This profile explores basic facts about cnidarians including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other invertebrate groups.
Tiger
Tigers are the largest and most powerful of all cats. They have a distinct orange coat, black stripes and white markings. This profile explores basic facts about tigers including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other cats.
Tigers are the largest and most powerful of all cats. They have a distinct orange coat, black stripes and white markings. This profile explores basic facts about tigers including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other cats.
Asian Elephant
Asian elephants are large herbivorous land mammals. They are one of two species of elephants, the other being the larger African elephant. Learn interesting facts about Asian elephants and find out what makes them unique.
Asian elephants are large herbivorous land mammals. They are one of two species of elephants, the other being the larger African elephant. Learn interesting facts about Asian elephants and find out what makes them unique.
Threats to Animals
Living things face a constant barrage of external stresses or threats that challenge their ability to survive and reproduce. If a species is unable to successfully cope with these threats through adaptation, they may face extinction.
Living things face a constant barrage of external stresses or threats that challenge their ability to survive and reproduce. If a species is unable to successfully cope with these threats through adaptation, they may face extinction.
How Do Tides and Waves Work?
Waves give rhythm to the ocean. They transport energy over vast distances. Where they make landfall, waves help to sculpt a unique and dynamic mosaic of coastal habitats.
Waves give rhythm to the ocean. They transport energy over vast distances. Where they make landfall, waves help to sculpt a unique and dynamic mosaic of coastal habitats.
Birds
Birds are vertebrates that have four limbs, wings, feathers, hollow bones and other adaptations for an aerial lifestyle. This profile explores basic facts about birds including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Birds are vertebrates that have four limbs, wings, feathers, hollow bones and other adaptations for an aerial lifestyle. This profile explores basic facts about birds including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Amur Leopard
Amur Leopard - Panthera pardus orientalis
Amur Leopard - Panthera pardus orientalis
Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountain Range is an ancient band of mountains that stretches in a southwestern arc from the Canadian province of Newfoundland to central Alabama, the heart of southeastern United States.
The Appalachian Mountain Range is an ancient band of mountains that stretches in a southwestern arc from the Canadian province of Newfoundland to central Alabama, the heart of southeastern United States.
Top 10 Cutest Birds
Of all animals, birds are among the most varied in color, shape and size. In this gallery we'll catch a glimpse of a small handful of the many birds that can claim to be the cutest of their kind.
Of all animals, birds are among the most varied in color, shape and size. In this gallery we'll catch a glimpse of a small handful of the many birds that can claim to be the cutest of their kind.
Bird Pictures
Pictures of birds, a group of four-limbed vertebrates that have wings, feathers, hollow bones, and other adaptations for an aerial lifestyle.
Pictures of birds, a group of four-limbed vertebrates that have wings, feathers, hollow bones, and other adaptations for an aerial lifestyle.
The Basic Fish Groups
The different types of fishes are classified into four groups including bony fishes, cartilaginous fishes, hagfishes and lampreys. This article explores fish classification in order to better understand their diversity and common characteristics.
The different types of fishes are classified into four groups including bony fishes, cartilaginous fishes, hagfishes and lampreys. This article explores fish classification in order to better understand their diversity and common characteristics.
The Basic Reptile Groups
The different types of reptiles are classified into four groups including crocodilians, lizards, snakes and turtles. This article explores reptile classification in order to better understand their diversity and common characteristics.
The different types of reptiles are classified into four groups including crocodilians, lizards, snakes and turtles. This article explores reptile classification in order to better understand their diversity and common characteristics.
Animals and Their Environment
A first step to understanding individual animals, and in turn populations of animals, is to understand the relationship they have with their environment.
A first step to understanding individual animals, and in turn populations of animals, is to understand the relationship they have with their environment.
Carnivores
Carnivores are animals belonging to the order Carnivora. The order Carnivora contains 7 families and about 250 species. This group of animals includes dogs and their relatives, bears, racoons, mustelids, civits, hyenas, aardwolf, and cats.
Carnivores are animals belonging to the order Carnivora. The order Carnivora contains 7 families and about 250 species. This group of animals includes dogs and their relatives, bears, racoons, mustelids, civits, hyenas, aardwolf, and cats.
Charles Darwin
Charles Darwin was born in Shrewsbury, England on February 12, 1809. He was the fourth child born to Robert Waring Darwin and Susannah Wedgwood. The Darwin family was wealthy and Charles grew up in comfort.
Charles Darwin was born in Shrewsbury, England on February 12, 1809. He was the fourth child born to Robert Waring Darwin and Susannah Wedgwood. The Darwin family was wealthy and Charles grew up in comfort.
What Do Reptiles Eat?
Most reptiles are carnivores that feed on small invertebrates, mammals and other reptiles. A few reptiles are herbivores that feed on plant material as varied as grasses, fruits, shrubs and marine plants such as algae and kelp.
Most reptiles are carnivores that feed on small invertebrates, mammals and other reptiles. A few reptiles are herbivores that feed on plant material as varied as grasses, fruits, shrubs and marine plants such as algae and kelp.
Facts About Corals
Learn interesting facts about corals and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other invertebrate groups.
Learn interesting facts about corals and find out about their diversity, evolutionary history and the characteristics make them different from other invertebrate groups.
Bony Fishes
Bony fishes are a group of aquatic vertebrates characterized by having a bony skeleton (unlike the cartilaginous fishes, a group whose skeleton consists of cartilage, not bone.
Bony fishes are a group of aquatic vertebrates characterized by having a bony skeleton (unlike the cartilaginous fishes, a group whose skeleton consists of cartilage, not bone.
Turtles
Turtles are best known for the hard shell, also called a carapace, which is a modification of their ribcage and vertebral column. This profile explores basic facts about turtles including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other reptile groups.
Turtles are best known for the hard shell, also called a carapace, which is a modification of their ribcage and vertebral column. This profile explores basic facts about turtles including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other reptile groups.
What Is Sexual Dimorphism?
Sexual dimorphism is the difference in form between male and female members of the same species.
Sexual dimorphism is the difference in form between male and female members of the same species.
Newts and Salamanders
Newts and salamanders are slender bodied amphibians with a long tail and usually two pairs of limbs. In this article, we'll explore basic facts about newts and salamanders including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Newts and salamanders are slender bodied amphibians with a long tail and usually two pairs of limbs. In this article, we'll explore basic facts about newts and salamanders including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Population Growth
Populations are groups of individuals belonging to the same species that live in a shared region at the same time.
Populations are groups of individuals belonging to the same species that live in a shared region at the same time.
Organ Systems and What They Do
Animals' bodies are made up of various organ systems, groups of organs that work together to perform a function.
Animals' bodies are made up of various organ systems, groups of organs that work together to perform a function.
Owl Pictures
Pictures of owls, including owl photos such as snowy owls, northern saw whet owls, great horned owls, barn owls and more.
Pictures of owls, including owl photos such as snowy owls, northern saw whet owls, great horned owls, barn owls and more.
Mammalian Temperature
Does it surprise you that reindeer, who spend much time standing in snow, don't get cold feet? Likewise, dolphins, whose thin flippers glide constantly through cool water, seem to be just fine.
Does it surprise you that reindeer, who spend much time standing in snow, don't get cold feet? Likewise, dolphins, whose thin flippers glide constantly through cool water, seem to be just fine.
Owls
Owls are medium to large birds with strong talons, a downward-curved bill, acute hearing and keen eyesight. This profile explores basic facts about owls including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other bird groups.
Owls are medium to large birds with strong talons, a downward-curved bill, acute hearing and keen eyesight. This profile explores basic facts about owls including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other bird groups.
How Do Coral Reefs Form?
Stony corals are a remarkable group of animals that inhabit tropical marine waters around the world and form vast colonies known as coral reefs
Stony corals are a remarkable group of animals that inhabit tropical marine waters around the world and form vast colonies known as coral reefs
Cats
Cats inhabit a wide variety of habitats including coasts, deserts, forests, grasslands, and mountains. They have colonized almost every corner of the globe with the exceptions of Australia, Greenland, Iceland, New Zealand, Antarctica, Madagascar, and remote oceanic islands.
Cats inhabit a wide variety of habitats including coasts, deserts, forests, grasslands, and mountains. They have colonized almost every corner of the globe with the exceptions of Australia, Greenland, Iceland, New Zealand, Antarctica, Madagascar, and remote oceanic islands.
Endangered Animals
Endangered animals are species or populations that are at risk of becoming extinct.
Endangered animals are species or populations that are at risk of becoming extinct.
How Snails Move
Terrestrial snails move using their muscular foot. By creating an undulating 'wave' motion along the length of the foot, a snail is able to push against the ground and propel its body forward, albeit slowly.
Terrestrial snails move using their muscular foot. By creating an undulating 'wave' motion along the length of the foot, a snail is able to push against the ground and propel its body forward, albeit slowly.
Fish
The term fish is used to refer to any aquatic vertebrate that has a skin covered with scales, two sets of paired fins, some unpaired fins, and a set of gills.
The term fish is used to refer to any aquatic vertebrate that has a skin covered with scales, two sets of paired fins, some unpaired fins, and a set of gills.
Great Barrier Reef
Great Barrier Reef - Facts About the Great Barrier Reef
Great Barrier Reef - Facts About the Great Barrier Reef
Bivalves
Bivalves are a group of molluscs that include clams, scallops, oysters, mussels, razor shells, cockles, venus shells, borers, trough shells and many others (some of which have yet to be identified).
Bivalves are a group of molluscs that include clams, scallops, oysters, mussels, razor shells, cockles, venus shells, borers, trough shells and many others (some of which have yet to be identified).
Communities and Ecosystems
The natural world is characterized by many complex interactions and relationships between animals, plants, and their environment. Individual belong, in turn, to populations, species, communities, and ecosystems.
The natural world is characterized by many complex interactions and relationships between animals, plants, and their environment. Individual belong, in turn, to populations, species, communities, and ecosystems.
Leopard
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the cat family (Felidae). The leopard's coat has a background color of pale, cream-yellow on its underside that darkens slightly to an orange-brown on its back.
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the cat family (Felidae). The leopard's coat has a background color of pale, cream-yellow on its underside that darkens slightly to an orange-brown on its back.
Komodo Dragon
Komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis) are the largest of all lizards, they can grow to lengths of 3m and can weigh as much as 165kg. Komodo dragons belong to the Family Varanidae, a group of reptiles known more commonly as the monitor lizards.
Komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis) are the largest of all lizards, they can grow to lengths of 3m and can weigh as much as 165kg. Komodo dragons belong to the Family Varanidae, a group of reptiles known more commonly as the monitor lizards.
Guide to Buying Binoculars
I was recently in the market for a new pair of binoculars and when I first started shopping around, I was bewildered by the vast number of makes and models available these days. Since I received my first pair of binoculars as a gift more than twenty years ago, I lacked experience shopping for the gadgets myself. I knew I had a lot to learn if I was going to invest my money wisely.
I was recently in the market for a new pair of binoculars and when I first started shopping around, I was bewildered by the vast number of makes and models available these days. Since I received my first pair of binoculars as a gift more than twenty years ago, I lacked experience shopping for the gadgets myself. I knew I had a lot to learn if I was going to invest my money wisely.
The Structure of a Forest
Mature forests often have several distinct layers including the forest floor, herb layer, shrub layer, understory, canopy, and emergents.
Mature forests often have several distinct layers including the forest floor, herb layer, shrub layer, understory, canopy, and emergents.
Classification of Cats
Cats belong to the group of vertebrates known as mammals. Within the mammals cats are classified with other meat eaters in the Order Carnivora (known commonly as 'carnivores').
Cats belong to the group of vertebrates known as mammals. Within the mammals cats are classified with other meat eaters in the Order Carnivora (known commonly as 'carnivores').
What Is a Rain Shadow?
A rain shadow is an area of dry land that lies on the leeward (or downwind) side of a mountain. Winds carry air masses up and over the mountain range and as the air is driven upward over the mountain, falling temperatures cause the air to lose much of its moisture as precipitation.
A rain shadow is an area of dry land that lies on the leeward (or downwind) side of a mountain. Winds carry air masses up and over the mountain range and as the air is driven upward over the mountain, falling temperatures cause the air to lose much of its moisture as precipitation.
American Black Bear
The American black bear is a large carnivore that inhabits the forests, swamps, tundra throughout the more northerly reaches of North America.
The American black bear is a large carnivore that inhabits the forests, swamps, tundra throughout the more northerly reaches of North America.
Plankton
Plankton are microscopic organisms that drift on the oceans' currents. They include organisms such as diatoms, dinoflagillates, krill, and copepods as well as the microscopic larva of crustaceans, sea urchins, and fish.
Plankton are microscopic organisms that drift on the oceans' currents. They include organisms such as diatoms, dinoflagillates, krill, and copepods as well as the microscopic larva of crustaceans, sea urchins, and fish.
Snow Leopard Pictures
Snow leopards are mountain-dwelling cats that live throughout the ranges of South and Central Asia at altitudes between 9,800 and 16,500 feet. Snow leopards are classified as endangered and their population is declining due to habitat destruction and a dwindling prey base.
Snow leopards are mountain-dwelling cats that live throughout the ranges of South and Central Asia at altitudes between 9,800 and 16,500 feet. Snow leopards are classified as endangered and their population is declining due to habitat destruction and a dwindling prey base.
Gastropods
Gastropods are molluscs that undergo torsion when they develop and have a spirally coiled shell. This profile explore basic facts about gastropods including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other mollusc groups.
Gastropods are molluscs that undergo torsion when they develop and have a spirally coiled shell. This profile explore basic facts about gastropods including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other mollusc groups.
Structure of a Snail Shell
A snail's shell is secreted by glands in its mantle rim and consists of three layers.
A snail's shell is secreted by glands in its mantle rim and consists of three layers.
Transition from Water to Land
The vertebrates that underwent the evolutionary transition from life in water to life on land faced four basic adaptive challenges
The vertebrates that underwent the evolutionary transition from life in water to life on land faced four basic adaptive challenges
Marsupials
Marsupials are a group of mammals that give birth to their young at an early stage of their development.
Marsupials are a group of mammals that give birth to their young at an early stage of their development.
Armadillos, Sloths and Anteate
Armadillos, sloths and anteaters are notable for the unique joints in their backbone. This profile explores basic facts about armadillos, sloths and anteaters including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other mammal groups.
Armadillos, sloths and anteaters are notable for the unique joints in their backbone. This profile explores basic facts about armadillos, sloths and anteaters including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other mammal groups.
Snail Diet and Feeding Habits
Most terrestrial snails are herbivorous. They feed on plant material (such as leaves, stems, and soft bark), fruits, and algae. A few species of snails are scavengers, feeding on decaying animals. Some marine snails (which, keep in mind, aren't in the same group as terrestrial snails) feed on clams, fish, worms and mollusks.
Most terrestrial snails are herbivorous. They feed on plant material (such as leaves, stems, and soft bark), fruits, and algae. A few species of snails are scavengers, feeding on decaying animals. Some marine snails (which, keep in mind, aren't in the same group as terrestrial snails) feed on clams, fish, worms and mollusks.
How Do Species Interact?
Wildlife species interact with each other in numerous, complex ways. Fortunately, we can make some general statements about these interactions.
Wildlife species interact with each other in numerous, complex ways. Fortunately, we can make some general statements about these interactions.
Vipers
Vipers are a group of snakes that include true vipers, bush vipers, rattlesnakes, pit vipers, adders and night adders. This profile explores basic facts about vipers including their classification, diet, habitat and what makes them different from other snake groups.
Vipers are a group of snakes that include true vipers, bush vipers, rattlesnakes, pit vipers, adders and night adders. This profile explores basic facts about vipers including their classification, diet, habitat and what makes them different from other snake groups.
Imprinting
The tendency of young animals to follow the first moving thing they see. In the wild, this is usually the mother, but in captivity, where the mother may not be the first thing they see, they might follow a human being or any moving object.
The tendency of young animals to follow the first moving thing they see. In the wild, this is usually the mother, but in captivity, where the mother may not be the first thing they see, they might follow a human being or any moving object.
Feather Anatomy and Function
Feathers are a unique adaptation of birds. Feathers are made up of keratin, an insoluble protein that is also found in mammalian hair and reptilian scales.
Feathers are a unique adaptation of birds. Feathers are made up of keratin, an insoluble protein that is also found in mammalian hair and reptilian scales.
Wild Side of Animal Senses
Radar, compasses, and infrared detectors are all man-made contraptions that enable humans to stretch beyond our natural senses.
Radar, compasses, and infrared detectors are all man-made contraptions that enable humans to stretch beyond our natural senses.
Eastern Deciduous Forests
Deciduous forests once stretched from New England south to Florida and from the Atlantic Coast west to the Mississippi River.
Deciduous forests once stretched from New England south to Florida and from the Atlantic Coast west to the Mississippi River.
The Basic Invertebrate Groups
Approximately 97 percent of all known animal species are invertebrates. Many of these species are classified in one of eight basic groups. This article explores looks at eight groups of invertebrates, their characteristics and the types of animals that belong to each group.
Approximately 97 percent of all known animal species are invertebrates. Many of these species are classified in one of eight basic groups. This article explores looks at eight groups of invertebrates, their characteristics and the types of animals that belong to each group.
Snail Habitat / Adaptation
Species of snails have evolved in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats. A snail's shell provides it with protection from changing weather conditions.
Species of snails have evolved in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats. A snail's shell provides it with protection from changing weather conditions.
Facts About Carnivores
Learn interesting facts about mammals and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Learn interesting facts about mammals and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Elephant Trunk
Elephants' trunks are muscular, flexible extensions of their upper lip and nose. The tip of an African elephant's trunk has two fingerlike growths that enables them to grasp food and other small objects.
Elephants' trunks are muscular, flexible extensions of their upper lip and nose. The tip of an African elephant's trunk has two fingerlike growths that enables them to grasp food and other small objects.
Snail Life Cycle / Development
Snails start life as an egg. Snails bury their eggs in a nest a few centimeters below the surface of the ground.
Snails start life as an egg. Snails bury their eggs in a nest a few centimeters below the surface of the ground.
Vertebrate
A vertebrate is an animal that has cartilaginous or bony vertebrae that surround a nerve cord and a skull that protects the brain.
A vertebrate is an animal that has cartilaginous or bony vertebrae that surround a nerve cord and a skull that protects the brain.
Largest Organisms
Giant sequoias, blue whales, Komodo dragons, African elephants all share the distinction of being among the world's largest organisms. Find out more about these and other sizeable creatures in this article examining the largest organisms on Earth.
Giant sequoias, blue whales, Komodo dragons, African elephants all share the distinction of being among the world's largest organisms. Find out more about these and other sizeable creatures in this article examining the largest organisms on Earth.
Biome
A distinct group lifeforms and the environment in which they are found.
A distinct group lifeforms and the environment in which they are found.
Squamates
Squamates are a group of reptiles that sheds their skin periodically in patches and have uniquely jointed skulls and jaws. This profile explores basic facts about squamates including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other reptile groups.
Squamates are a group of reptiles that sheds their skin periodically in patches and have uniquely jointed skulls and jaws. This profile explores basic facts about squamates including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other reptile groups.
Barn Owls
Barn owls are a group of owls that have a heart-shaped face, long legs and powerful talons. This profile explores basic facts about barn owls including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Barn owls are a group of owls that have a heart-shaped face, long legs and powerful talons. This profile explores basic facts about barn owls including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other animal groups.
Brown Bear
Brown bears are the largest of all the bear species and are considered to be the largest living land carnivore. Brown bears are widely distributed, inhabiting a range that includes the northern parts of North America, Europe and Asia.
Brown bears are the largest of all the bear species and are considered to be the largest living land carnivore. Brown bears are widely distributed, inhabiting a range that includes the northern parts of North America, Europe and Asia.
Reproduction in Snails
Most terrestrial snails are hermaphroditic which means that each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs.
Most terrestrial snails are hermaphroditic which means that each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs.
American Beaver
The American beaver is the world's second largest rodent, only the capybara of South America is larger. This profile explores basic facts about American beavers including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other rodents.
The American beaver is the world's second largest rodent, only the capybara of South America is larger. This profile explores basic facts about American beavers including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other rodents.
Amphibian Pictures
Amphibians are delicate, soft-skinned creatures that to this day retain close ties to the watery habitats their ancestors stepped out of some 365 million years ago. Here you can browse a collection of pictures and photographs of a variety of amphibians—from frogs and toads, to newts and salamanders.
Amphibians are delicate, soft-skinned creatures that to this day retain close ties to the watery habitats their ancestors stepped out of some 365 million years ago. Here you can browse a collection of pictures and photographs of a variety of amphibians—from frogs and toads, to newts and salamanders.
Why Do Fireflies Glow?
Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, glow to lure prey, discourage predators, and most importantly to attract mates.
Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, glow to lure prey, discourage predators, and most importantly to attract mates.
Adelie Penguin
The Adelie Penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) has a black back and a white belly and white rings around their eyes. Their wings are black on top and white underneath.
The Adelie Penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) has a black back and a white belly and white rings around their eyes. Their wings are black on top and white underneath.
Monotremes
Monotremes are a group of mammals that include echidnas and the platypus. Monotremes are unique among mammals because they lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young like other mammals.
Monotremes are a group of mammals that include echidnas and the platypus. Monotremes are unique among mammals because they lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young like other mammals.
Density Independent
A factor that influences individuals in a population in a manner that does not vary with the extent of crowding present in the population.
A factor that influences individuals in a population in a manner that does not vary with the extent of crowding present in the population.
Cephalopods
Cephalopods are a group of mulluscs that include octopuses, cuttlefish, squid and the chambered nautilus. In this article, we'll explore basic facts about cephalopods including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other mollusc groups.
Cephalopods are a group of mulluscs that include octopuses, cuttlefish, squid and the chambered nautilus. In this article, we'll explore basic facts about cephalopods including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other mollusc groups.