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
Mammals' characteristics include numerous adaptations that enable them to survive in a wide range of environments. Here we'll explore facts and information about mammals so we can easily identify they key characteristics of a mammal.
Mammals' characteristics include numerous adaptations that enable them to survive in a wide range of environments. Here we'll explore facts and information about mammals so we can easily identify they key characteristics of a mammal.
Polar Bear Standing on Ice
Polar bears feed primarily on seals. They have two basic hunting tactics, stalking (which involves slowly moving towards their prey and when close enough, charging in for the attack) and still hunting (which involves sitting beside a hole in the ice that a seal uses as a breathing hole; when the seal emerges to breath, the polar bear attacks).
Polar bears feed primarily on seals. They have two basic hunting tactics, stalking (which involves slowly moving towards their prey and when close enough, charging in for the attack) and still hunting (which involves sitting beside a hole in the ice that a seal uses as a breathing hole; when the seal emerges to breath, the polar bear attacks).
The 10 Largest Mammals
The mammals listed here are the biggest and the bulkiest of their kind that inhabit our planet today. They include a surprisingly diverse cast of creatures—the cumbersome southern elephant seal, the majestic blue whale, the bounding European hare, the blunt-nosed capybara, the massive African elephant, and the wide-jawed hippopotamus to name a select few
The mammals listed here are the biggest and the bulkiest of their kind that inhabit our planet today. They include a surprisingly diverse cast of creatures—the cumbersome southern elephant seal, the majestic blue whale, the bounding European hare, the blunt-nosed capybara, the massive African elephant, and the wide-jawed hippopotamus to name a select few
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.
Facts About Fishes
Fish are a highly diverse group of vertebrates. They include the cartilaginous fishes (sharks, skates, rays, chimera), the ray-finned fishes (paddlefishes, spoonfishes, pipefishes, seahorses, sturgeons, to name just a few), and the lobe-finned fishes (coelacanths and lungfishes).
Fish are a highly diverse group of vertebrates. They include the cartilaginous fishes (sharks, skates, rays, chimera), the ray-finned fishes (paddlefishes, spoonfishes, pipefishes, seahorses, sturgeons, to name just a few), and the lobe-finned fishes (coelacanths and lungfishes).
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.
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.
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.
Facts About Birds
Learn interesting facts about birds, a group of animals that includes albatrosses, cranes, flamingos, grebes, kingfishers, loons, owls, pelicans, penguins, songbirds, woodpeckers and many others.
Learn interesting facts about birds, a group of animals that includes albatrosses, cranes, flamingos, grebes, kingfishers, loons, owls, pelicans, penguins, songbirds, woodpeckers and many others.
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.
Great Barrier Reef Animals
Animals of the Great Barrier Reef
Animals of the Great Barrier Reef
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').
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.
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.
Bird Characteristics
Bird characteristics include numerous adaptations for flight such as feathers, a furcula and hollow bones. In this article, we'll learn about the characteristics of birds and what makes them different from other types of animals.
Bird characteristics include numerous adaptations for flight such as feathers, a furcula and hollow bones. In this article, we'll learn about the characteristics of birds and what makes them different from other types of animals.
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 Amphibians
In this article, you'll learn interesting facts about amphibians and find out about their unique characteristics, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
In this article, you'll learn interesting facts about amphibians and find out about their unique characteristics, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Mammals
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.
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.
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 Giraffes
Giraffes are well-known for tall profile, their long neck, and distinct patchwork pattern and are therefore among the most recognizable creatures in the animal kingdom. Their large eyes, long tongue, sizeable ears, and tufted tail further contribute to their unique appearance. Despite giraffes being easily recognizable, there are many lesser-known facts about giraffes that make them worth a closer look.
Giraffes are well-known for tall profile, their long neck, and distinct patchwork pattern and are therefore among the most recognizable creatures in the animal kingdom. Their large eyes, long tongue, sizeable ears, and tufted tail further contribute to their unique appearance. Despite giraffes being easily recognizable, there are many lesser-known facts about giraffes that make them worth a closer look.
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 Reptiles
Here are ten facts about reptiles, a group of animals that includes snakes, lizards, crocodiles, turtles and amphisbaenians.
Here are ten facts about reptiles, a group of animals that includes snakes, lizards, crocodiles, turtles and amphisbaenians.
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.
Facts About Mammals
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.
Blue-Footed Booby
The blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii) is an adorable seabird with bright seafoam-blue webbed feet and a blue-gray face to match.
The blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii) is an adorable seabird with bright seafoam-blue webbed feet and a blue-gray face to match.
Chordates - Phylum Chordata
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Facts About Frogs
Frogs are the most familiar group of amphibians. They have worldwide distribution with the exception of the polar regions, some oceanic islands, and the driest of deserts.
Frogs are the most familiar group of amphibians. They have worldwide distribution with the exception of the polar regions, some oceanic islands, and the driest of deserts.
Facts About Invertebrates
Learn interesting facts about invertebrates and find out about the characteristics make them different from other animal groups, their life cycle and their evolutionary history.
Learn interesting facts about invertebrates 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 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.
Reptiles
Reptiles are a group of animals that include turtles, snakes, lizards, worm lizards, crocodiles, alligators, caimans and gavials. In this article, we'll explore 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 a group of animals that include turtles, snakes, lizards, worm lizards, crocodiles, alligators, caimans and gavials. In this article, we'll explore 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.
Birds
Birds are vertebrates that have four limbs, wings, feathers, hollow bones and other adaptations for an arial lifestyle. In this article, we'll explore 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 arial lifestyle. In this article, we'll explore 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.
The Basic Mammal Groups
The different types of mammals are classified into 21 groups including aardvarks, anteaters, bats, carnivores, cetaceans, elephants, marsupials, monotremes, primates, rodents, treeshrews and many others. In this article, we'll explore mammal classification in order to better understand the many different types of mammals.
The different types of mammals are classified into 21 groups including aardvarks, anteaters, bats, carnivores, cetaceans, elephants, marsupials, monotremes, primates, rodents, treeshrews and many others. In this article, we'll explore mammal classification in order to better understand the many different types of mammals.
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.
Amphibians
Amphibians include salamanders, newts, caecilians, frogs, and toads. These animals' ancestors were the first to venture out from the water and adapt to life on land. Amphibian larvea are often aquatic and go through a complex metamorphosis process as they grow to adulthood. They have moist skin and do not have scales, feathers or hair.
Amphibians include salamanders, newts, caecilians, frogs, and toads. These animals' ancestors were the first to venture out from the water and adapt to life on land. Amphibian larvea are often aquatic and go through a complex metamorphosis process as they grow to adulthood. They have moist skin and do not have scales, feathers or hair.
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.
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.
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.
Great Barrier Reef
Great Barrier Reef - Facts About the Great Barrier Reef
Great Barrier Reef - Facts About the Great Barrier Reef
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Marine Fish
Well over one thousand species of marine fish inhabit the Great Barrier Reef.
Well over one thousand species of marine fish inhabit the Great Barrier Reef.
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.
North and South American Cats
Pumas, also known as mountain lions, catamonts, panthers or cougars, are a large cat whose former range extended from coast to coast across North America. By 1960, they were declared extinct in most midwestern and eastern ranges.
Pumas, also known as mountain lions, catamonts, panthers or cougars, are a large cat whose former range extended from coast to coast across North America. By 1960, they were declared extinct in most midwestern and eastern ranges.
Insects
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.
Cnidaria
Cnidarians (Phylum Cnidaria) are a group of aquatic animals that includes jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras.
Cnidarians (Phylum Cnidaria) are a group of aquatic animals that includes jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras.
Ten Animals of North America
Ten Animals of North America
Ten Animals of North America
Facts About Coral
If you've ever visited an aquarium or gone snorkeling when on holiday, you're probably familiar with a wide variety of corals. You may even know that corals play a fundamental role in defining the structure of marine reefs, the most complex and diverse ecosystems in our planet's oceans.
If you've ever visited an aquarium or gone snorkeling when on holiday, you're probably familiar with a wide variety of corals. You may even know that corals play a fundamental role in defining the structure of marine reefs, the most complex and diverse ecosystems in our planet's oceans.
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.
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.
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.
Turtles
Turtles are a unique group of reptiles that first appeared about 200 million years ago during the Late Triassic period. Since that time, turtles have changed little and it is quite possible that modern turtles closely resemble those that roamed the Earth during the time of the dinosaurs.
Turtles are a unique group of reptiles that first appeared about 200 million years ago during the Late Triassic period. Since that time, turtles have changed little and it is quite possible that modern turtles closely resemble those that roamed the Earth during the time of the dinosaurs.
Black Rat Snake by Nicholas Segal
Black Rat Snake by Nicholas Segal
Black Rat Snake by Nicholas Segal
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.
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.
Tiger - Panthera tigris
Tigers are the largest and most powerful of all cats. They are also among the most recognizable of cats thanks to their distinct orange coat, black stripes and white markings. There are five living subspecies of tigers, all of which are classified as endangered. These five subspecies include Siberian tigers, Bengal tigers, Indochinese tigers, South China tigers and Sumatran tigers.
Tigers are the largest and most powerful of all cats. They are also among the most recognizable of cats thanks to their distinct orange coat, black stripes and white markings. There are five living subspecies of tigers, all of which are classified as endangered. These five subspecies include Siberian tigers, Bengal tigers, Indochinese tigers, South China tigers and Sumatran tigers.
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.
Sponges - Porifera
Sponges (Phylum Porifera) are a group of simple aquatic invertebrates that include glass sponges, demisponges, and calcareous sponges.
Sponges (Phylum Porifera) are a group of simple aquatic invertebrates that include glass sponges, demisponges, and calcareous sponges.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Florida Panther Kitten
Three-week-old Florida panther kitten in Picayune Strand State Forest.
Three-week-old Florida panther kitten in Picayune Strand State Forest.
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.
The Basic Amphibian Groups
Amphibians include newts and salamanders, frogs and toads, and caecilians.
Amphibians include newts and salamanders, frogs and toads, and caecilians.
The Life Cycle of a Frog
The life cycle of a frog consists of three stages: egg, larva, and adult. As the frog grows it moves through these stages in a process known as metamorphosis.
The life cycle of a frog consists of three stages: egg, larva, and adult. As the frog grows it moves through these stages in a process known as metamorphosis.
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.
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.
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.
The Basic Bird Groups
Birds, best known for their ability to fly, are unmatched in their command of the skies. There are several different ways experts classify birds into subgroups. On this website, we recognize that there are 30 groups of birds:
Birds, best known for their ability to fly, are unmatched in their command of the skies. There are several different ways experts classify birds into subgroups. On this website, we recognize that there are 30 groups of birds:
Amphibian and Reptile ID Tips
Through a series of steps, this identification key will help you to learn the basics of identifying the main families of reptiles and amphibians.
Through a series of steps, this identification key will help you to learn the basics of identifying the main families of reptiles and amphibians.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Florida Panther Pictures
Pictures of Florida panthers, an endangered subspecies of panther that scientists believe are healthier and fitter than they were fifteen years ago. They have higher genetic diversity, better immunity to disease, and fewer genetic abnormalities. They suffer fewer heart defects, enjoy higher fertility and are better able to climb trees.
Pictures of Florida panthers, an endangered subspecies of panther that scientists believe are healthier and fitter than they were fifteen years ago. They have higher genetic diversity, better immunity to disease, and fewer genetic abnormalities. They suffer fewer heart defects, enjoy higher fertility and are better able to climb trees.
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.
Primates
Primates form a diverse group of mammals that includes about 233 species that are grouped into 13 families.
Primates form a diverse group of mammals that includes about 233 species that are grouped into 13 families.
Basic Animal Groups
The list below provides the answers to the Basic Animal Groups quiz, a quiz that presents a series of pictures showing animals that belong to one of six basic groups—amphibians, birds, fishes, invertebrates, mammals, or reptiles. Review the correct answers below and find out why each animal belongs to one of the six basic animal groups.
The list below provides the answers to the Basic Animal Groups quiz, a quiz that presents a series of pictures showing animals that belong to one of six basic groups—amphibians, birds, fishes, invertebrates, mammals, or reptiles. Review the correct answers below and find out why each animal belongs to one of the six basic animal groups.
Amur Leopard
Amur Leopard - Panthera pardus orientalis
Amur Leopard - Panthera pardus orientalis
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.
Animals - Metazoa
Animals (Kindom Animalia) are multicellular organisms that are capable of locomotion and rely on other organisms to obtain their nourishment.
Animals (Kindom Animalia) are multicellular organisms that are capable of locomotion and rely on other organisms to obtain their nourishment.
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.
Snail Anatomy
Snails are very different from humans so when we think about body parts, we're often at a loss when relating the familiar parts of a human body to snails.
Snails are very different from humans so when we think about body parts, we're often at a loss when relating the familiar parts of a human body to snails.
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.
Black Jaguar
In some cat species, a melanistic or black color morph appears on occasion in a wild population. Although these melanistic individuals may look quite different from their kin, they are color variations, not separate species. Examples of such melanistic individuals include black leopards and black jaguars. This picture shows a black jaguar.
In some cat species, a melanistic or black color morph appears on occasion in a wild population. Although these melanistic individuals may look quite different from their kin, they are color variations, not separate species. Examples of such melanistic individuals include black leopards and black jaguars. This picture shows a black jaguar.
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.
Brief History of Life on Earth
It all began 4500 million years ago (Mya) with the Hadean Eon. That's when our solar system formed and, in that solar system, a molten Earth started to cool and take shape. Because there was no solid rock back then, we don't have a geological history of the Hadeon Eon. As soon as the Earth cooled and solid rock formed, that's when geological history began and the Hadeon Eon ended.
It all began 4500 million years ago (Mya) with the Hadean Eon. That's when our solar system formed and, in that solar system, a molten Earth started to cool and take shape. Because there was no solid rock back then, we don't have a geological history of the Hadeon Eon. As soon as the Earth cooled and solid rock formed, that's when geological history began and the Hadeon Eon ended.
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.
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.
How Large Do Snails Grow?
Snails grow to a variety of different sizes depending on the species and individual.
Snails grow to a variety of different sizes depending on the species and individual.
Quiz - 6 Basic Animal Groups
Put your animal identification skills to the test in this quiz.
Put your animal identification skills to the test in this quiz.
The Basic Fish Groups
Fish are aquatic vertebrates that have skin covered with scales, two sets of paired fins, some unpaired fins, and a set of gills.
Fish are aquatic vertebrates that have skin covered with scales, two sets of paired fins, some unpaired fins, and a set of gills.
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.
Owls
Owls are medium to large birds with strong talons, a downward-curved bill, acute hearing and keen eyesight. In this article, we'll explore 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. In this article, we'll explore 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.
Ray-Finned Fishes
Ray-Finned fishes or 'actinopterygiians' (Actinopterygii) are an extremely diverse group of aquatic vertebrates—over half of all living vertebrate species (aquatic and terrestrial combined) belong to this class.
Ray-Finned fishes or 'actinopterygiians' (Actinopterygii) are an extremely diverse group of aquatic vertebrates—over half of all living vertebrate species (aquatic and terrestrial combined) belong to this class.
Armadillos, Sloths and Anteaters
Armadillos, sloths, and anteaters belong to the Xenarthra, an ancient group of placental mammals that once roamed across Gondwanaland before the continents of the Southern Hemisphere separated into their present day configuration.
Armadillos, sloths, and anteaters belong to the Xenarthra, an ancient group of placental mammals that once roamed across Gondwanaland before the continents of the Southern Hemisphere separated into their present day configuration.
Ostrich Pictures
The ostrich is the tallest and heaviest species of all living birds. Although its bulky body means that flying is out of the question, the ostrich has adapted to life on the ground with impressive agility.
The ostrich is the tallest and heaviest species of all living birds. Although its bulky body means that flying is out of the question, the ostrich has adapted to life on the ground with impressive agility.
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.
Habitat Profiles - A to Z List
The following is an A to Z list of habitat profiles available, sorted alphabetically.
The following is an A to Z list of habitat profiles available, sorted alphabetically.
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').
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.
Siberian Tiger
The Siberian tiger inhabits eastern Russia, parts of northeastern China and northern North Korea. It prefers coniferous and broadleaf woodlands. The Siberian tiger subspecies nearly fell into extinction in the 1940s. At its lowest population count, the Siberian tiger population consisted of just 40 tigers in the wild. Thanks to great efforts of Russian conservationists, the Siberian tiger subspecies has now recovered to more stable levels.
The Siberian tiger inhabits eastern Russia, parts of northeastern China and northern North Korea. It prefers coniferous and broadleaf woodlands. The Siberian tiger subspecies nearly fell into extinction in the 1940s. At its lowest population count, the Siberian tiger population consisted of just 40 tigers in the wild. Thanks to great efforts of Russian conservationists, the Siberian tiger subspecies has now recovered to more stable levels.
Diversity and Evolultion
The Great Barrier Reef is among the most complex ecosystems on the planet, providing habitat for a stunning variety and number of species.
The Great Barrier Reef is among the most complex ecosystems on the planet, providing habitat for a stunning variety and number of species.
Xerophyte
A type of plant that is well-adapted to water shortages and exhibits adaptations that enable it to store or conserve water.
A type of plant that is well-adapted to water shortages and exhibits adaptations that enable it to store or conserve water.
Female Florida Panther and Cubs
An adult female Florida panther with her 3 young kittens in the Picayune Strand State Forest.
An adult female Florida panther with her 3 young kittens in the Picayune Strand State Forest.
Protecting Wildlife
If you are interested in getting involved in wildlife conservation, be sure to take a closer look this list of organizations.
If you are interested in getting involved in wildlife conservation, be sure to take a closer look this list of organizations.
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.
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.
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.
Facts About Snowy Owls
Snowy owls are large owls notable for their striking white plumage and their extreme northerly range which includes tundra habitat throughout Alaska, Canada and Eurasia. Here you'll learn interesting facts about snowy owls and find out what makes them unique.
Snowy owls are large owls notable for their striking white plumage and their extreme northerly range which includes tundra habitat throughout Alaska, Canada and Eurasia. Here you'll learn interesting facts about snowy owls and find out what makes them unique.
Meerkat
Meerkats are highly social mammals that form packs of between 10 and 30 individuals consisting of several breeding pairs. The individuals in a meerkat pack forage together during daylight hours. While some members of the pack feed, one or more members of the pack stand sentry.
Meerkats are highly social mammals that form packs of between 10 and 30 individuals consisting of several breeding pairs. The individuals in a meerkat pack forage together during daylight hours. While some members of the pack feed, one or more members of the pack stand sentry.
Florida Panther
A male Florida panther stares into the lens of the motion-activated camera.
A male Florida panther stares into the lens of the motion-activated camera.
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 Animals
Animals are one of the basic groups of life on Earth. All animals share a set of fundamental characteristics—they move, they feed on other organisms, they're multicellular and they reproduce sexually. Here you'll learn interesting facts about animals and find out what makes them unique.
Animals are one of the basic groups of life on Earth. All animals share a set of fundamental characteristics—they move, they feed on other organisms, they're multicellular and they reproduce sexually. Here you'll learn interesting facts about animals and find out what makes them unique.
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.
Caecilians
Caecilians are a group of slender-bodied, limbless amphibians. In this article, we'll explore basic caecilian facts including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other amphibian groups.
Caecilians are a group of slender-bodied, limbless amphibians. In this article, we'll explore basic caecilian facts including how they are classified, what they eat, where they live and the characteristics that make them different from other amphibian groups.
Echinoderms
Echinoderms are a diverse group of marine invertebrates comprising approximately 6000 species. Subgroups of echinoderms include starfish, sea lilies, feather stars, brittlestars, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins.
Echinoderms are a diverse group of marine invertebrates comprising approximately 6000 species. Subgroups of echinoderms include starfish, sea lilies, feather stars, brittlestars, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins.
The Basic Reptile Groups
Reptiles are a group of cold-blooded tetrapod vertebrates that diverged from ancestral amphibians about 340 million years ago.
Reptiles are a group of cold-blooded tetrapod vertebrates that diverged from ancestral amphibians about 340 million years ago.
Snail Estivation and Hibernation
Snails are usually active in the summer, but if it gets too warm and dry for them, they enter a period of inactivity known as estivation.
Snails are usually active in the summer, but if it gets too warm and dry for them, they enter a period of inactivity known as estivation.
Three Florida Panther Kittens
Three Florida panther kittens from Everglades National Park.
Three Florida panther kittens from Everglades National Park.
Horses
horses
horses
What Is Permafrost?
Permafrost is any soil or rock that remains frozen (below 0°C / 32°F) throughout the year.
Permafrost is any soil or rock that remains frozen (below 0°C / 32°F) throughout the year.
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.
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.
Snail Senses
Terrestrial snails have eyes that are located on the tips of their upper, longer pair of tentacles. But snails don't see in the same way we do. Their eyes are less complex and provide them with a general sense of light and dark in their surroundings.
Terrestrial snails have eyes that are located on the tips of their upper, longer pair of tentacles. But snails don't see in the same way we do. Their eyes are less complex and provide them with a general sense of light and dark in their surroundings.
A Timeline of Evolution
This chart provides brief information about the various eons, eras, periods, and epochs that are used to describe the Earth's history.
This chart provides brief information about the various eons, eras, periods, and epochs that are used to describe the Earth's history.
Density Dependent
Describes a factor that influences individuals in a population to a degree that varies in response to how crowded (dense) the population is.
Describes a factor that influences individuals in a population to a degree that varies in response to how crowded (dense) the population is.
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.
White-Cheeked Crested Gibbon
A female northern white-cheeked crested gibbon grooms a male.
A female northern white-cheeked crested gibbon grooms a male.
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.