Animal Species Profiles:

Mammals, Birds, Reptiles & More

Explore wildlife from around the world with the species profiles on WildlifePhotographer. Mammals, birds, reptiles… For each species, you’ll find key information such as habitat, observation periods, distribution, and photography tips. Want more details and advanced features? Download the full app for the complete experience.


Alpine accentor

Alpine accentor

Prunella collaris

The alpine accentor is a small mountain passerine, 14–15 cm long, with streaked grey-brown plumage and a slightly darker head. It inhabits alpine rocky slopes, scree, and high meadows, feeding on insects, seeds, and berries. During the breeding season, males and females establish territories and the male performs song flights to attract the female.
Alligator

Alligator

Alligator mississippiensis

The American Alligator, often simply referred to as the Mississippi Alligator, is an imposing and formidable reptile, easily recognizable by its dark skin and sharp eyes. It primarily inhabits the swamps, rivers, and lakes of the southeastern United States, where it is a top predator in the food chain. The alligator is an opportunistic hunter, feeding on fish, birds, small mammals, and even carrion. It has a remarkable ability to adapt and can survive in various environments, from freshwater swamps to salty coastal areas. During the breeding season, males emit powerful calls that echo through the swamps to attract females, and nests are built in strategic locations to maximize egg protection.
Anhinga

Anhinga

Anhinga anhinga

The Anhinga, also known as the "snakebird," is a captivating aquatic bird. It is characterized by its long, sinuous neck and sharp beak, ideal for catching fish. Its plumage is predominantly black with metallic sheens, and its wings feature distinctive silver patterns. Unlike other water birds, the Anhinga lacks oil glands to waterproof its feathers, making it more adept at diving deep to hunt. After fishing, it must dry its wings by spreading them in the sun. It is primarily found in swamps, lakes, and rivers of Central and South America.
African Pygmy Goose

African Pygmy Goose

Nettapus auritus

The Nettapus auritus, or African Pygmy Goose, is a small African duck with distinctive plumage. Males have a white head with metallic green patches, while females display more subdued tones. Their body is mainly brown with greenish reflections on the wings. These aquatic birds prefer wetlands such as marshes and shallow lakes where they feed on seeds and aquatic plants. They are often seen in small groups and are known for their fast, direct flight. Their behavior is generally suspicious, making them difficult to approach.
Argali

Argali

Ovis ammon

The Argali is the largest wild sheep in the world, known for its imposing size and majestic spiral horns. It primarily inhabits the mountains of Central Asia, where it frequents the arid and semi-arid regions of steppes and high plateaus. This large ungulate is perfectly adapted to mountainous environments, moving nimbly on steep terrain at high altitudes. The Argali is a herbivore, feeding on grasses and woody plants. The Argali is also a symbol of strength and resilience, but it is threatened by habitat loss and overhunting. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this iconic species and preserve its natural habitat.
Axolotl

Axolotl

Ambystoma mexicanum

The Axolotl is a fascinating species of amphibian native to lakes around Mexico City, Mexico. Unlike most other amphibians, the Axolotl retains its juvenile form throughout its life, a phenomenon known as neoteny. It is famous for its exceptional ability to regenerate parts of its body, including limbs, internal organs, and even its heart. It has a distinctive appearance with its pale pink skin and external gills, giving it the appearance of a small aquatic dragon. The Axolotl primarily lives in cold, deep waters of lakes, where it feeds on small invertebrates.
Aye-aye

Aye-aye

Daubentonia madagascariensis

The Aye-aye is a nocturnal lemur endemic to Madagascar, known for its strange appearance, notably its extremely long and thin middle finger which it uses to extract insects and larvae from tree trunks. It is a shy and secretive animal, primarily living in the tropical forests of the island. Due to its unique feeding method, it is sometimes viewed as an omen of misfortune by local populations, though its ecological role in maintaining forest balance is crucial. The Aye-aye is listed as vulnerable due to deforestation and cultural beliefs surrounding it.
American Bison

American Bison

Bison bison

The American Bison is one of the largest land mammals in North America, recognizable by its massive head, thick fur, particularly on its back. Once widespread, it nearly went extinct in the 19th century due to overhunting and habitat loss. Today, thanks to conservation efforts, the population of American Bison is growing, though the species remains protected in many areas. The American Bison lives in herds, primarily in grasslands and plains. Herbivorous, it feeds on grasses, woody plants, and some vegetation. As it moves, it creates powerful tracks in the plains. This social mammal is also known for its territorial behavior, with males fighting for dominance within the group.
Asian Badger

Asian Badger

Meles leucurus

The Asian badger, or Meles leucurus, is a medium-sized mammal belonging to the Mustelidae family. It is distinguished by its thick fur and characteristic coloration, with a white stripe on the throat and belly. This badger is primarily nocturnal and inhabits forests, grasslands, and steppes of Central and East Asia. It digs complex burrows where it spends the day and raises its young. Omnivorous, it feeds on small animals, insects, fruits, and roots. Although generally solitary, it can sometimes be seen in small family groups. Its adaptability to various habitats and suspicious behavior make it difficult to observe in the wild.
American Badger

American Badger

Taxidea taxus

The American Badger is a medium-sized carnivore, easily recognizable by the distinctive white stripes on its head and its sturdy, stocky body. It primarily inhabits prairies and semi-arid areas in North America, where it digs complex burrows for shelter and raising its young. The American Badger is mainly insectivorous, feeding on worms, insects, and occasionally small mammals and reptiles. Its powerful claws allow it to dig quickly and efficiently into the ground. The American Badger is a solitary animal, often active at dusk and during the night. While not immediately endangered, it can be affected by habitat loss and illegal hunting in some regions.
Alpine Ibex

Alpine Ibex

Capra ibex

The Alpine Ibex is a large herbivorous mammal, easily recognized by its long, curved horns and light brown or grayish coat. It primarily inhabits the rugged mountains of the Alps, southern Europe, and some mountainous regions of the Middle East. The Alpine Ibex feeds on alpine vegetation, grasses, and woody plants, and it is particularly adapted to life at high altitudes due to its great agility on rocky terrain and its thick coat. This animal is social and lives in family groups, although adult males, called "ibex", form separate groups. After nearly disappearing in the early 20th century due to overhunting, conservation programs have helped stabilize its population. However, it remains vulnerable to habitat loss and human disturbances.
Alpine Chamois

Alpine Chamois

Rupicapra rupicapra

The Alpine Chamois is an elegant and agile ungulate, well adapted to the mountainous environments of the Alps, Pyrenees, and other mountain regions of Europe. It is distinguished by its reddish-brown coat in the summer, which becomes more gray and thicker in the winter, helping it endure the cold temperatures. The Alpine Chamois has small, curved horns, present in both males and females, but larger in adult males. This ruminant primarily inhabits rocky slopes, mountain forests, and alpine meadows, where it feeds mainly on herbaceous vegetation, mosses, and lichens. The Alpine Chamois is an excellent climber, able to move with agility over steep and rocky terrain. It is usually solitary or lives in small family groups, but may also gather in larger herds during the winter. Although its population is stable in many areas, the Alpine Chamois remains vulnerable to hunting and human disturbances in its mountainous habitats.
African Golden Cat

African Golden Cat

Caracal aurata

The African Golden Cat is a rare and mysterious small feline, characterized by its silky golden coat and pointed ears adorned with tufts of black hair. This medium-sized cat primarily inhabits the forests and savannas of West Africa, where it preys mainly on birds, small mammals, and reptiles. Its golden coat, which gives it its name, is perfect for camouflaging in tall grasses and foliage. The African Golden Cat is a discreet and solitary hunter, primarily active at dawn and dusk. Although it is rare and difficult to observe due to its nocturnal habits, it plays an important role in regulating prey populations. The species is threatened by habitat loss and poaching, although conservation efforts are in place to protect this elusive feline.
African Wildcat

African Wildcat

Felis lybica

The African Wildcat is a small, discreet, and nocturnal feline, primarily found in desert regions, savannas, and open forests of North and Sub-Saharan Africa. It is often compared to the domestic cat but has a more uniform coat, typically sandy or gray-brown, with light markings on the head and paws. Its eyes are large, adapted for nocturnal vision, and its ears are pointed, enhancing its wild appearance. This cat is a solitary hunter, feeding mainly on small mammals, birds, and insects. Although shyer than its domestic cousin, it plays an essential role in regulating prey populations in its habitat. It is also known as the ancestor of the domestic cat, which was domesticated from this species around 10,000 years ago. While the African Wildcat is still relatively widespread, it is threatened by habitat loss and human conflict.
African Wild Dog

African Wild Dog

Lycaon pictus

The African Wild Dog is an exceptional social predator, easily recognized by its unique spotted coat, which ranges in color from yellow-orange to black, with irregular markings. It has large, rounded ears and an expressive face. This carnivore primarily lives in organized packs, which allow it to effectively hunt large mammals such as gazelles and impalas. Their hunting strategy is based on cooperation, speed, and endurance, with long and energetic chases. The African Wild Dog is also known for its social behavior, with pack members maintaining strong bonds through vocalizations, play, and grooming rituals. Unfortunately, this species is endangered due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, and conflicts with humans. It is a protected species, and efforts are underway to preserve remaining populations in wildlife reserves.
Alpine Chough

Alpine Chough

Pyrrhocorax graculus

The Alpine Chough, or Pyrrhocorax graculus, is a mountain bird from the Corvidae family. It is recognized by its glossy black plumage, bright yellow bill, and red legs. This bird is often seen in the Alps and the Pyrenees, where it moves in noisy flocks. Exceptionally agile in flight, it can skillfully maneuver in updrafts. Opportunistic, it feeds mainly on insects, fruits, and food scraps left by hikers. The chough is a sociable bird, often not very shy, and easily approaches humans. It nests in rock crevices and cliffs, usually laying three to five eggs.
African Civet

African Civet

Civettictis civetta

The African civet, Civettictis civetta, is a medium-sized carnivorous mammal known for its spotted coat and distinctive black band across its eyes. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, it primarily inhabits savannas, forests, and woodlands. It is mainly nocturnal, feeding on a variety of foods, including fruits, insects, and small animals. The African civet is also known for producing a musky secretion used in the perfume industry. Although generally solitary, it can sometimes be seen in small groups. Its adaptability to various habitats and diverse diet make it a resilient species, though habitat loss and hunting can pose threats.
African palm civet

African palm civet

Nandinia binotata

The African palm civet is a small feliform mammal, 43–71 cm long and weighing 1.4–4.5 kg, with grey to dark brown fur spotted with dark markings. It is native to sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting moist forests where it feeds on fruits, aquatic invertebrates and small vertebrates at night. Crepuscular and nocturnal, it sleeps in trees during the day and forages at dusk and night.
Andean condor

Andean condor

Vultur gryphus

The Andean condor is one of the largest flying birds in the world, known for its impressive wingspan reaching up to 3.3 meters. It primarily inhabits the Andean mountains, where it feeds on animal carcasses. Its majestic flight and habit of soaring at high altitudes make it a fascinating subject for photographers. Although protected, the Andean condor is threatened by habitat loss and poisoning from consuming contaminated carcasses.
Andean Cock-of-the-rock

Andean Cock-of-the-rock

Rupicola peruvianus

The Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Rupicola peruvianus, is a striking bird found in the humid forests of the Andes. The male is known for its vibrant orange plumage, while the female is more subdued with brownish tones. This bird is famous for its elaborate courtship displays, where males gather in leks to perform dances and distinctive calls to attract females. Primarily frugivorous, it plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, aiding in the regeneration of its habitat. Although currently listed as "Least Concern," deforestation and habitat loss pose potential threats to its survival.
Aesculapian Snake

Aesculapian Snake

Zamenis longissimus

The Aesculapian Snake is a non-venomous, long and slender snake that can reach up to 2 meters in length. Its coloration ranges from olive green to brown, with smooth scales and a metallic sheen. It inhabits temperate forests, hedgerows, fallow lands, and rocky areas, often near human settlements. It is diurnal and arboreal, primarily feeding on small mammals, birds, lizards, and eggs. Reproduction occurs in spring, with 2 to 18 eggs laid and incubated for 6 to 10 weeks. Protected species in Europe, it is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
American crocodile

American crocodile

Crocodylus acutus

The American Crocodile, also known by the scientific name Crocodylus acutus, is a large reptile distinguished by its impressive size and broad distribution. It can reach lengths of 6 to 7 meters, although some individuals can exceed this size. Its body is covered with green to gray scales, often speckled with darker patches, which help it blend perfectly into the brackish waters and marshlands of its habitats. The American crocodile primarily lives in coastal and estuarine areas, where it feeds on fish, birds, and small mammals. It is an opportunistic hunter and can occasionally capture large prey when they venture too close to the water. This reptile is semi-aquatic and spends a significant amount of time in the water, but it is also capable of moving on land. Regarding migration, the American crocodile is relatively sedentary, although it can travel long distances along the coast depending on environmental conditions. It is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and intensive hunting for its skin. Potential Threats: habitat loss due to coastal development and water pollution, illegal hunting for its skin and meat.
Asian water monitor

Asian water monitor

Varanus salvator

The Asian water monitor is a large lizard belonging to the monitor family. It is widely distributed across Southeast Asia and primarily inhabits wetland areas, particularly near rivers, swamps, and lakes. A carnivore, it feeds mainly on fish, amphibians, small mammals, and insects. Capable of swimming and climbing with agility, it is an excellent predator. While not considered threatened, it faces threats due to habitat loss and hunting.
Asian Elephant

Asian Elephant

Elephas maximus

The Asian Elephant is a large land mammal, known for its imposing size and large rounded ears. It typically stands between 2 and 3.5 meters at the withers and weighs between 2,000 and 5,000 kg. Its coat is generally grayish, although some individuals may have a more brownish tint. The Asian Elephant differs from the African Elephant in its smaller size, narrower ears, and its trunk, which has a single "finger" at the tip. This elephant primarily inhabits tropical forests, savannas, and wetland areas in South and Southeast Asia, including India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. It is herbivorous, feeding on leaves, bark, fruits, and grasses. The Asian Elephant has often been associated with human communities due to its historical role in labor, transport, and religious ceremonies. However, the species is threatened by habitat loss due to agriculture, poaching for its valuable tusks, and conflicts with human populations. It is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
African Forest Elephant

African Forest Elephant

Loxodonta cyclotis

The Forest Elephant is a large land mammal, characterized by its smaller size compared to the Asian Elephant and the African Savannah Elephant, standing around 2 to 3 meters at the withers and weighing between 2,000 and 5,000 kg. Its coat is gray, but its skin is often rougher than other elephants, and its ears are smaller, adapted to its forest habitat. The Forest Elephant primarily inhabits the dense forests of Central and West Africa, where it feeds on a wide variety of vegetation, including leaves, bark, fruits, and roots. Unlike the Savannah Elephant, it is more discreet and less social, though it may form small family groups. This elephant plays a key role in its ecosystem, contributing to seed dispersal and forest regeneration. However, the species is threatened by deforestation, poaching for its valuable tusks, and conflicts with human communities. It is currently listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
African Savanna Elephant

African Savanna Elephant

Loxodonta africana

The African Savannah Elephant is the largest land mammal, and the largest of all terrestrial animals. It can stand up to 4 meters tall at the withers and weigh between 4,000 and 7,500 kg. Its coat is gray, with rough skin often covered in dust or mud to protect it from the sun and parasites. The African Savannah Elephant is easily recognizable by its large ears, shaped like the map of Africa, which help regulate its body temperature. This elephant is primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, bark, fruits, and plants. It inhabits savannas, grasslands, and open forests across sub-Saharan Africa. The African Savannah Elephant is a social animal, living in family groups led by an older female. It plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by creating openings in vegetation and dispersing seeds. However, the species is threatened by habitat loss, poaching for its valuable tusks, and conflicts with human communities. The African Savannah Elephant is currently listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Aplomado Falcon

Aplomado Falcon

Falco femoralis

The Aplomado Falcon, Falco femoralis, is a sleek and slender raptor, recognizable by its distinctive plumage. It features a slate-gray back, a white belly, and a black band across the chest. Its wings are long and pointed, adapted for fast and agile flights. This falcon is primarily found in open grasslands, savannas, and semi-desert areas of Central and South America. A skilled predator, it mainly feeds on small birds, rodents, and insects. Although its habitat is vast, it is sometimes threatened by the loss of its natural environment. Its behavior is generally suspicious, but it can become accustomed to human presence in some areas.
Alpine warbler

Alpine warbler

Sylvia subalpina

The alpine warbler is a small passerine of 12–13 cm with olive-brown, faintly streaked plumage and buff flanks. It inhabits alpine heath, subalpine meadows and open coniferous woodland. It feeds mainly on insects and spiders captured in vegetation. During breeding, males sing in flight or from elevated perches to attract females.
Andean flamingo

Andean flamingo

Phoenicoparrus andinus

The Andean flamingo is a rare species of flamingo that inhabits saline and alkaline lagoons of the high Andes plateaus, primarily in Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia. It is distinguished by its white plumage and pale pink hues, as well as its graceful silhouette. This species is threatened by habitat loss and human disturbance and is listed as a protected species. It primarily feeds on algae and small crustaceans found in saline waters.
African clawed frog

African clawed frog

Xenopus laevis

Xenopus laevis is a fully aquatic amphibian native to sub-Saharan Africa, identifiable by its smooth olive skin and four claws on the front feet. It inhabits ponds, pools, and ditches of still water, feeding on invertebrates and small fish with its fast, sticky tongue.