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.


Humpback whale

Humpback whale

Megaptera novaeangliae

The Humpback Whale is one of the most iconic whale species, known for its spectacular jumps and fascinating songs. This massive whale can grow up to 16 meters long and weigh up to 36 tons. It is found in oceans worldwide, migrating between the cold waters of the Arctic and the warmer tropical waters to breed. Humpback whales primarily feed on krill and small fish, which they capture using a group hunting technique known as "bubble netting," where they create bubbles underwater to trap their prey. In addition to their impressive hunting behaviors, Humpback Whales are also famous for their complex songs, which males use to attract females during the breeding season.
Honey Buzzard

Honey Buzzard

Pernis apivorus

The Honey Buzzard is a medium-sized diurnal raptor, easily recognizable by its plumage marked with light and dark brown patterns and its slender build. It primarily inhabits open forests, hedgerows, and wooded areas in Europe and Asia, and feeds mainly on larvae of bees, wasps, and small insects, which it captures by flying above beehives or attacking the nests of social insects. This raptor uses its powerful talons and curved beak to extract larvae from the nests. The Honey Buzzard is also known for its ability to undertake long migratory flights, leaving its breeding grounds in Europe to travel to warmer regions in North Africa for the winter. While the population remains stable in many areas, the Honey Buzzard may be threatened by habitat loss and the reduction in insect populations on which it relies.
House Bunting

House Bunting

Emberiza sahari

The House Bunting, or Emberiza sahari, is a small bird with a discreet plumage, mainly brown with shades of gray and beige. It is well adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, blending perfectly into the landscape. It is primarily found in North Africa, especially in desert and mountainous regions. Known for its melodious song, often heard at dawn, it feeds mainly on seeds but can also consume insects, especially during the breeding season. The House Bunting is a sociable bird, often seen in small groups, and is relatively not very shy, making it accessible for observation.
Hartebeest

Hartebeest

Alcelaphus buselaphus

The Hartebeest is a medium-sized antelope, easily recognized by its slender body, long legs, and slightly curved horns. It primarily inhabits the savannas and open plains of North and West Africa, where it forms large herds. The Hartebeest feeds mainly on grasses and low vegetation, and it is particularly well adapted to life in arid and semi-arid environments. This species is mainly active at dawn and dusk, avoiding the intense heat of the day. The Hartebeest is threatened by habitat loss due to agriculture and hunting, and although conservation efforts have been made, its population remains vulnerable. It is listed as "Near Threatened" on the IUCN Red List.
Hen Harrier

Hen Harrier

Circus cyaneus

The Northern Harrier is a medium-sized raptor, easily recognizable by its gray and brown plumage, with distinct markings on its wings and a slightly rounded head. This diurnal bird primarily inhabits open areas such as grasslands, cultivated fields, and marshes, mainly in Europe and Asia. The Northern Harrier hunts small mammals, birds, and insects, which it captures by flying low, often making wide circles in search of prey. This raptor is migratory, leaving its breeding grounds in Europe to head to North Africa during the winter. The Northern Harrier is also known for its majestic flight, which makes it easily identifiable. Although its population is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and human disturbances, conservation efforts are underway to help stabilize its populations.
Hummingbird

Hummingbird

Trochilidae

Hummingbirds, members of the Trochilidae family, are small birds exceptionally known for their ability to hover in place due to their rapid and agile wing beats. These birds are characterized by their iridescent plumage, which varies from green and blue to red and purple, depending on the species. Their small size and high energy make them easily recognizable. Hummingbirds are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, from Canada to the southern parts of South America. They primarily feed on nectar that they gather from flowers, using their long slender beak and extendable tongue to reach the food. In addition to nectar, they also consume insects and spiders for protein. Due to their high metabolism, they must feed frequently throughout the day. Hummingbirds play a key role in pollinating flowering plants, thus contributing to the biodiversity of their habitats. While their population is generally stable, some species are threatened by habitat loss and climate change.
Hector's dolphin

Hector's dolphin

Cephalorhynchus hectori

Hector's dolphin is one of the smallest dolphin species in the world, with an average size of 1.2 to 1.5 meters. It primarily inhabits shallow coastal waters of New Zealand, where it feeds on fish and squid. This dolphin is recognizable by its small, compact body, rounded fins, and distinctive face. Threatened by pollution, bycatch, and habitat loss, it is classified as endangered.
Herring Gull

Herring Gull

Larus argentatus

The herring gull is a large seabird in the family Laridae, up to 66 cm long with a wingspan of up to 1.4 m. It has a white head, body and tail, grey back and wings with black wingtips marked with white spots, and pink legs. It breeds in coastal colonies on islands, cliffs and urban roofs, foraging on fish, crustaceans, invertebrates and human refuse. The breeding season runs from April to June, when it lays 2–3 eggs in a simple ground scrape.
Helmeted tree frog

Helmeted tree frog

Triprion petasatus

The Helmeted Tree Frog is a fascinating amphibian species, known for the distinctive helmet-like protuberance on its head. This protuberance, resembling a helmet, helps it camouflage among the leaves and branches of trees in the humid tropical forests. It is mainly found in the forests of Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. It is nocturnal and terrestrial, spending much of its time in the canopy near streams where it lays its eggs. This frog is rather discreet and often hides in dense vegetation to avoid predators.
Hawfinch

Hawfinch

Coccothraustes coccothraustes

The Hawfinch is a small passerine bird with a very powerful beak, designed to crack hard seeds and kernels. It measures about 22 cm in length and weighs between 50 and 70 g. Its plumage is mainly brown and gray, with white markings and a black patch on the head, while its wings are black with distinct white spots. The beak is wide, conical, and very robust, and it is the most remarkable feature of the bird. The Hawfinch primarily inhabits forests and wooded gardens in Europe and Western Asia, notably in France, Germany, Russia, and Turkey. It primarily feeds on seeds, particularly fruit pits and tree seeds. Its behavior is rather discreet and solitary, although it can be seen in small groups during the winter months. While the species is not endangered, habitat loss and deforestation may pose potential threats.
Hamadryas Baboon

Hamadryas Baboon

Papio hamadryas

The hamadryas baboon, also known as the sacred baboon, is a primate species distinguished by its silver fur and the impressive mane of the males. Native to the Horn of Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula, it lives in complex social groups. Dominant males lead harems consisting of several females and their offspring. These baboons are diurnal and spend most of their time foraging for food, primarily fruits, seeds, and insects. Their natural habitat includes savannas, arid steppes, and rocky areas. Although they can survive in harsh environments, their population is threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
Hooded merganser

Hooded merganser

Lophodytes cucullatus

The Hooded Merganser is a medium-sized duck, easily recognizable by its distinctive crest and vibrant colors. It measures about 40 to 50 cm in length, with a wingspan of 60 to 70 cm, and weighs between 400 and 700 g. The male, during the breeding season, has a black and white head with an impressive crest of white feathers on top. Its plumage is mainly black and white, with shades of brown and green, and it has a short, wide beak adapted for feeding on fish, crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates. The female, on the other hand, is more subtle, with light brown plumage and a less prominent crest. The Hooded Merganser primarily inhabits North America, particularly in the northeastern United States, where it frequents lakes, rivers, and wetland areas. It is an excellent diver, capable of diving underwater to capture its prey. Although the species is not in immediate danger, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and water pollution.
Harpy eagle

Harpy eagle

Harpia harpyja

The Harpy Eagle is one of the most powerful and impressive raptors in the world, easily recognizable by its large size and distinctive crest of feathers on its head. It measures between 86 and 107 cm in length, with a wingspan of 2 to 2.3 meters, and weighs between 6 and 10 kg. Its plumage is primarily dark gray and black, with white spots on the wings and belly, and a head adorned with a crest of feathers, giving it an imposing appearance. The Harpy Eagle primarily inhabits the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, notably in Mexico, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil. Carnivorous, it primarily feeds on mammals such as monkeys, sloths, and coatis, which it captures in flight or on trees with its powerful talons. Although the Harpy Eagle is not yet critically endangered, its population is threatened by deforestation, habitat loss, and illegal hunting.
House martin

House martin

Delichon urbicum

The house martin is a small migratory bird found mainly in urban and rural areas across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is easily recognized by its metallic blue back and its white throat and belly. This swallow builds its nest under roofs, on window ledges, and on building cornices. It primarily feeds on insects, which it catches mid-flight, often chasing swarms of insects at high speed.
Hoatzin

Hoatzin

Opisthocomus hoazin

The Hoatzin is a strange and fascinating bird, easily recognizable by its plume crest and distinctive plumage. Native to the tropical forests of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin, this bird stands out for its leaf-based diet, which it digests through fermentation in its digestive system, a process similar to that of ruminants. It has short wings and prefers to move by hopping through trees or swimming. While not aggressive, the Hoatzin is a shy bird and difficult to observe, often hidden in dense vegetation.
Huemul

Huemul

Hippocamelus bisulcus

The huemul is a species of deer native to the mountains of Patagonia, in Argentina and Chile. It is distinguished by its medium size and graceful antlers. It lives in mountain forests, where it primarily feeds on plants, moss, and bark. Unfortunately, it is classified as endangered due to illegal hunting and habitat loss. The huemul is a symbol of the region's wildlife, but its populations are becoming increasingly rare.
Hoopoe

Hoopoe

Upupa epops

The Eurasian Hoopoe is a bird with a spectacular plumage, easily recognizable by its colorful crest of feathers that it raises in the shape of a tuft on its head. It measures about 25 to 29 cm in length, with a wingspan of 44 to 48 cm, and weighs between 40 and 70 g. Its plumage is primarily light beige, with black and white stripes on the back and wings, and its beak is long, thin, and slightly curved, ideal for probing the ground in search of insects and other small prey. The Eurasian Hoopoe primarily inhabits open areas, such as grasslands, orchards, forest edges, and cultivated areas across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It mainly feeds on insects, such as ants, termites, and larvae, which it catches by probing the ground. This bird is an excellent flier, capable of flying long distances with powerful wingbeats. Although the species is not endangered, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and the intensification of agriculture.
Hazel Dormouse

Hazel Dormouse

Muscardinus avellanarius

The Common Dormouse is a small nocturnal rodent, often compared to a miniature squirrel, found mainly in forests, hedgerows, and gardens across Europe. It measures about 7 to 9 cm in length, with a tail of 5 to 7 cm, and weighs between 15 and 30 g. Its coat is typically brown or gray with a light belly, and it has large black eyes and round ears. The Common Dormouse is an arboreal and nocturnal animal that primarily feeds on fruits, seeds, nuts, and sometimes insects. It is an excellent climber, often living in trees or natural cavities. This small rodent is known for its hibernation behavior: it enters torpor during the winter months, retreating into its nest to survive the cold temperatures. Although it is widespread, it is threatened by habitat loss and human disturbances.
Himalayan Monal

Himalayan Monal

Lophophorus impejanus

The Himalayan Monal, or Lophophorus impejanus, is a striking bird native to the mountainous regions of the Himalayas. Known for its iridescent plumage, the male displays a dazzling array of metallic blues, greens, and purples, while the female is more subdued with mottled brown feathers for camouflage. These birds inhabit coniferous forests and alpine meadows, feeding on roots, tubers, and insects. Although capable of flight, they prefer to walk or run on the ground. Their call is a sharp, resonant cry that echoes through the mountain valleys.
Humboldt penguin

Humboldt penguin

Spheniscus humboldti

The Humboldt penguin is a medium-sized penguin (56–70 cm, 2.9–6 kg) with dark grey upperparts, a white belly, and a black head bordered by a white band around the eye. It is endemic to the Pacific coast of South America (Peru and Chile), nesting in guano burrows, rocky crevices, and coastal caves. Social, it forms small colonies on islands and coastal cliffs.
Hook-billed Kingfisher

Hook-billed Kingfisher

Melidora macrorrhina

The Melidora macrorrhina, commonly known as the Hook-billed Kingfisher, is a fascinating bird native to the tropical forests of New Guinea. This kingfisher is distinguished by its unique, wide, and flattened bill, which allows it to effectively capture aquatic prey. It sports a vibrant plumage with shades of blue, green, and white, giving it an elegant appearance. This bird prefers dense, humid habitats where it can hide among the foliage while watching for prey. Although primarily solitary, it is sometimes observed in small family groups. Its discreet presence and suspicious behavior make it difficult to spot, but it is a true gem for birdwatchers and passionate photographers.
House sparrow

House sparrow

Passer domesticus

The house sparrow is a very common small bird, found primarily in urban environments, gardens, fields, and parks. It is easily recognized by its brown plumage, grey head, and black markings on its back and chest. This passerine bird is omnivorous, feeding on seeds, insects, and food scraps. Although highly social and often seen in large numbers, the house sparrow is in decline in some regions due to habitat loss and climate change.
Himalayan brown bear

Himalayan brown bear

Ursus arctos isabellinus

The Ursus arctos isabellinus, commonly known as the Himalayan brown bear, is a subspecies of the brown bear found primarily in the mountainous regions of the Himalayas. These bears are large, with thick fur that ranges from light brown to dark brown, sometimes with reddish hues. They are omnivorous, feeding on plants, insects, and small mammals. Their natural habitat includes alpine meadows and subalpine forests. Due to hunting and habitat loss, their population is declining, making them vulnerable. They are solitary except during the breeding season and when a mother is raising her cubs.
Hoffmann's two-toed sloth

Hoffmann's two-toed sloth

Choloepus hoffmanni

The Two-toed Sloth is an arboreal mammal native to the tropical forests of Central and South America, notably in Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. It measures between 50 and 60 cm in length, with a reduced tail and weighs between 4 and 8 kg. Its fur is long, thick, and gray-green in color, allowing it to blend into the foliage of trees. As its name suggests, it has two toes on its front limbs, which allow it to cling to branches and move slowly from tree to tree. The Two-toed Sloth is primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers. Although it is an excellent climber, it moves very slowly and often only leaves its trees once a week to descend to the ground for defecation. The species is currently listed as "vulner
Harbor seal

Harbor seal

Phoca vitulina

The Common Seal, also known as the Harbor Seal, is a marine mammal found primarily along the coasts of the North Atlantic, in Europe and North America. It measures between 1.5 and 2 meters in length and weighs between 60 and 150 kg. Its fur is typically light gray with dark spots, and its head is rounded with bright black eyes. The Common Seal is an excellent swimmer and primarily feeds on fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. It is often seen lounging on rocks or beaches. Although its population remains relatively stable, the Common Seal is sometimes threatened by pollution, hunting, and human disturbance of its breeding habitats.
Harbor seal

Harbor seal

Phoca vitulina richardii

The harbor seal, or Phoca vitulina richardii, is a widely distributed species of seal found in the coastal waters of the northern hemisphere. These marine mammals are recognizable by their spotted coats, which range from gray to brown, and their rounded faces with large whiskers. They typically measure between 1.5 and 1.9 meters in length and weigh between 55 and 170 kg. Harbor seals are agile swimmers, capable of diving up to 500 meters to hunt fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They spend much of their time resting on beaches, sandbanks, or rocks. Although often solitary, they can gather in groups during the breeding season or to rest.
Harp Seal

Harp Seal

Phoca groenlandica

The harp seal, or hooded seal, is a marine mammal native to the Arctic regions. It is easily identifiable by its white fur as a pup, which turns gray with black spots as it matures. This seal is well adapted to cold environments, with a thick layer of blubber for insulation. It primarily feeds on fish and crustaceans. Harp seals are known for their seasonal migrations, traveling long distances between breeding and feeding grounds. They play a crucial role in the Arctic marine ecosystem, serving as both predators and prey for other species.
Hairy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Picoides villosus

The Hairy Woodpecker, or Picoides villosus, is a medium-sized bird easily recognized by its distinctive black and white plumage. It features a white stripe down its back and wings speckled with white. Males have a small red patch on the back of their heads. This bird is widespread across North America, primarily inhabiting deciduous and coniferous forests. It feeds mainly on insects, which it dislodges by hammering tree trunks with its powerful beak. The Hairy Woodpecker is often mistaken for the Downy Woodpecker but is generally larger with a longer bill. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling pest insect populations.
Helmeted Guineafowl

Helmeted Guineafowl

Numida meleagris

The helmeted guineafowl, Numida meleagris, is a terrestrial bird native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is easily identified by its black plumage speckled with white and its bare head topped with a bony casque. This social bird lives in groups and feeds mainly on seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. Known for its adaptability, it thrives in various habitats, from savannas to open forests. It plays a crucial role in controlling pest insect populations. Although often domesticated for its meat and eggs, it remains suspicious in the wild.
Howler monkey
The Howler Monkey is a medium-sized primate found primarily in the tropical forests of Central and South America, notably in Mexico, Central America, and parts of the Amazon rainforest. It typically measures about 40 to 70 cm in length, with a prehensile tail of 50 to 75 cm, and weighs between 7 and 10 kg. Its fur varies from black to brown, and it has a large throat and powerful jaw, which allow it to produce extremely loud sounds, used to demarcate territory and communicate with other members of its group. The Howler Monkey is primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers. It lives in social groups and is primarily active during the day, moving slowly from tree to tree. While its population remains relatively stable, this species is threatened by deforestation and hunting.