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.


Red-billed Chough

Red-billed Chough

Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax

The Red-billed Chough, or Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax, is a member of the Corvidae family, easily identified by its glossy black plumage and bright red bill. It is commonly found in mountainous and coastal regions, feeding mainly on insects and small invertebrates. Known for its impressive aerial acrobatics and distinctive calls, this bird typically nests on cliffs or in abandoned buildings, forming noisy colonies. Although its range is extensive, it is locally threatened by habitat loss and human disturbances. Its presence often indicates the health of mountainous ecosystems.
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.
Morelet's crocodile

Morelet's crocodile

Crocodylus moreletii

The Morelet's crocodile is a large aquatic reptile in the family Crocodylidae, measuring 2–3 m in length, with a robust body, greenish-brown scaly skin and a broad head. It inhabits coastal lakes, rivers, swamps and freshwater lagoons, occasionally brackish waters, feeding mainly on fish, birds and small mammals. During nesting, the female builds a mound of vegetation debris on the shore and lays 20–45 eggs, which she guards for about 80 days.
Cuban crocodile

Cuban crocodile

Crocodylus rhombifer

The Cuban crocodile, Crocodylus rhombifer, is a medium-sized species endemic to Cuba, primarily found in the Zapata Swamp and the Isle of Youth. It typically measures between 2 and 3.5 meters in length and is known for its distinctive scaly skin with vibrant colors ranging from olive green to yellow, with black patterns. This opportunistic predator feeds mainly on fish, small mammals, and birds. It is recognized for its aggressive and territorial behavior, making it potentially dangerous to humans. Unfortunately, this species is critically endangered due to habitat loss and illegal hunting.
Orinoco crocodile

Orinoco crocodile

Crocodylus intermedius

The Orinoco crocodile is a large aquatic reptile in the family Crocodylidae, measuring 3–4 m in length, with olive-green scaly skin and a heavy head. It inhabits rivers, lakes and swamps of the Orinoco basin, feeding mainly on fish, turtles and small mammals. During nesting, the female builds a vegetation mound on the riverbank and lays 30–40 eggs, guarding them for about 80 days.
Marsh crocodile

Marsh crocodile

Crocodylus palustris

The Marsh Crocodile, also known by the scientific name Crocodylus palustris, is a medium-sized reptile that can reach about 4 to 5 meters in length. Its body is typically olive to brown, with darker patterns that allow it to effectively blend into the swamps, rivers, and lakes of its habitat. This crocodile is primarily carnivorous and feeds on fish, birds, and small mammals, but it can also hunt larger animals when they venture too close to the water. The Marsh Crocodile is known for its patience and discretion when hunting, often remaining still for hours before seizing its prey. In terms of distribution, it is found in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Although primarily sedentary, it can move short distances in search of new habitats. This species is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and hunting for its skin. Major threats include the draining of swamps, water pollution, and conflicts with human communities.
Nile crocodile

Nile crocodile

Crocodylus niloticus

The Nile Crocodile is one of the most formidable and largest species of crocodiles, capable of reaching up to 5 meters in length. It primarily lives in rivers, lakes, and swamps in Africa and is an opportunistic predator, mainly hunting fish, birds, and mammals that approach the shores. This crocodile is also known for its territorial behavior, with males often dominating large aquatic areas. Its powerful body and rough skin allow it to blend into its environment, facilitating its stealthy hunting strategy. While primarily aquatic, the Nile Crocodile sometimes ventures onto land to bask in the sun.
Saltwater crocodile

Saltwater crocodile

Crocodylus porosus

The Saltwater crocodile is the largest of the crocodiles, reaching up to 7 meters in length. It lives in the saline and brackish waters of the coasts of Southeast Asia, northern Australia, and the islands of the Indian Ocean. A powerful predator, it primarily feeds on fish, birds, and mammals, including large prey such as buffaloes and even sharks. While it is often feared for its size and power, it remains discreet in shallow waters and mangrove swamps. Due to hunting and habitat loss, the Saltwater crocodile is classified as a vulnerable species.
Dwarf crocodile

Dwarf crocodile

Osteolaemus tetraspis

The African dwarf crocodile is a small semi-aquatic crocodilian, measuring 1–1.5 m in length, with a robust body, broad head, and dark brown and black mottled skin. It inhabits forest swamps, slow-moving tributaries, and wetlands of West and Central Africa, feeding primarily on fish, crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates. Solitary and crepuscular, it shelters in burrows or under tree roots.
Cottonmouth

Cottonmouth

Agkistrodon piscivorus

The Cottonmouth, or Agkistrodon piscivorus, is a venomous semi-aquatic snake found primarily in the southeastern United States. It is recognizable by its triangular head and coloration that ranges from brown to black, often with lighter crossbands. This snake is well adapted to aquatic environments such as swamps, rivers, and lakes, but can also be found on land. It is known for its defensive behavior, widely opening its mouth to show the white interior, hence the name "cottonmouth". Although venomous, it generally only attacks if it feels threatened. Its bite can be dangerous to humans, requiring immediate medical attention.
Rock Rattlesnake

Rock Rattlesnake

Crotalus lepidus

The Rock Rattlesnake, or Crotalus lepidus, is a medium-sized venomous snake, typically measuring between 50 and 70 cm in length. It is characterized by its gray or brownish coloration, often marked with dark crossbands, allowing it to blend into its rocky environment. This snake is primarily found in the mountainous regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It prefers rocky and arid habitats, where it can easily hide. Although venomous, it is generally not aggressive towards humans and prefers to flee rather than bite.
Pygmy rattlesnake

Pygmy rattlesnake

Sistrurus miliarius

The Sistrurus miliarius, commonly known as the pygmy rattlesnake, is a small venomous snake, typically measuring between 40 and 60 cm. It is recognizable by its varied coloration, ranging from gray to brown, with diamond-shaped or banded patterns. Its head is triangular, and it has a small rattle at the end of its tail, although this is often less noisy than that of other rattlesnakes. It is primarily found in the southeastern United States, inhabiting diverse environments such as pine forests, marshes, and grasslands. Although venomous, its bites are rarely fatal to humans but still require immediate medical attention.
Yellow-bellied Shrike

Yellow-bellied Shrike

Dryoscopus gambensis

The Yellow-bellied Shrike, or Dryoscopus gambensis, is a medium-sized bird known for its distinctive plumage. It features a dark gray back, white belly, and black wings with shiny highlights. This bird is often found in the savannas and open forests of sub-Saharan Africa. It primarily feeds on insects, which it skillfully captures with its robust beak. The Yellow-bellied Shrike is a territorial bird, often seen alone or in pairs. Its song is melodious and varied, making it easily identifiable for birdwatchers. Although generally discreet, it may become more visible during the breeding season.
Whooper swan

Whooper swan

Cygnus cygnus

The Whooper Swan, also known by the scientific name Cygnus cygnus, is a large species of swan that can reach a wingspan of 2 to 2.5 meters, making it one of the largest swans in Europe and Asia. Its plumage is entirely white, except for the bright orange skin covering its bill. The Whooper Swan is primarily a migratory bird that lives in wetlands, lakes, and marshes. It feeds mainly on aquatic plants, but can also consume seeds and roots. During the breeding season, the Whooper Swan prefers freshwater lakes and ponds, where it builds floating nests. The migration of the Whooper Swan is particularly notable, as it travels long distances between its breeding grounds in Northern Europe and its wintering areas in Western Europe, Central Asia, and China. While its status is currently stable, the Whooper Swan can be threatened by habitat loss due to the draining of wetlands and water pollution. It is also vulnerable to illegal hunting and human disturbances.
Trumpeter Swan

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

The Trumpeter Swan, Cygnus buccinator, is the largest swan in North America, renowned for its pure white plumage and long, elegant neck. It is distinguished by its black bill and dark eyes. Its powerful, resonant call, reminiscent of a trumpet, gives it its name. This majestic swan frequents lakes, marshes, and rivers, feeding primarily on aquatic plants. It is often seen in small family groups. Although its population was once threatened by hunting and habitat loss, conservation efforts have led to an increase in numbers. The Trumpeter Swan is a symbol of beauty and grace in aquatic ecosystems.
Mute swan

Mute swan

Cygnus olor

The mute swan is a large waterbird found in lakes, rivers, and ponds across Europe and Asia. It is easily recognized by its bright white plumage, long graceful neck, and the black knob on its beak. This bird is known for its majestic flight and territorial behavior, especially when protecting its territory or young. Mute swans primarily feed on aquatic vegetation but can also eat small invertebrates.
Yellow-bellied Dacnis

Yellow-bellied Dacnis

Dacnis flaviventer

The Yellow-bellied Dacnis is a small, colorful bird belonging to the Thraupidae family. It is distinguished by its vibrant plumage, with a bright yellow belly contrasting with a blue-green back. Males and females exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males displaying more vivid colors. This bird is primarily frugivorous but also feeds on insects. It is found in the humid tropical forests of South America, particularly in Colombia, Peru, and Brazil. It is often seen in small groups, actively moving through the canopy in search of food. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, the Yellow-bellied Dacnis is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Blue Dacnis

Blue Dacnis

Dacnis cayana

The Blue Dacnis, or Dacnis cayana, is a small, colorful bird found in the tropical forests of South America. Males display vibrant blue plumage with black wings and tail, while females are a more subdued green. Measuring about 12 to 13 cm, this bird is often seen in pairs or small groups. It primarily feeds on fruits, nectar, and insects, playing a role in pollination and seed dispersal. The Blue Dacnis is a diurnal bird, most active in the morning and late afternoon. It is known for its melodious song and aerial acrobatics when feeding in the canopy.
Fallow Deer

Fallow Deer

Dama dama

The Fallow Deer, also known by the scientific name Dama dama, is a medium-sized cervid native to Europe and Asia Minor. It stands between 90 and 120 cm tall at the withers and can weigh between 30 and 100 kg, depending on sex and environment. Its coat, usually brown or gray, is spotted with white during the summer season, helping it blend into its forest habitat. The Fallow Deer primarily inhabits forests and woodlands, where it feeds on a variety of vegetation, including grasses, leaves, fruits, and bark. It is also known for its habit of moving in herds, often forming separate groups of males or females. The Fallow Deer is a ruminant herbivore that is primarily active at dawn and dusk. Although it is mostly sedentary, it can travel long distances in search of food or new habitats. During the breeding season, males fight for females, producing characteristic sounds such as roars. This species is listed as of least concern, but it can be threatened by habitat loss and excessive hunting.
Bontebok

Bontebok

Damaliscus pygargus

The White-fronted Damalisque is a medium-sized antelope, recognizable by its reddish-brown coat and the distinctive white band that crosses its forehead, which gives it its name. It stands between 1.30 and 1.50 meters tall at the withers and weighs between 50 and 70 kg. This mammal primarily inhabits open savannas, grasslands, and semi-desert areas, preferring open terrain where it can graze on grasses, leaves, and stems. It is well adapted to heat and drought, thanks to its short coat and behavior of seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day. The White-fronted Damalisque lives in small groups, often consisting of females and young, while adult males usually live alone or in small groups. It is mainly active in the morning and late afternoon, when it is easier to feed while avoiding the heat of the day. While the species is currently in good health, it faces threats such as illegal hunting, habitat loss due to human expansion, and competition with livestock for food resources.
Tsessebe

Tsessebe

Damaliscus lunatus

The Common Damalisque is a medium-sized antelope, recognizable by its reddish-brown or gray-brown coat, with distinctive white markings on the legs and belly. It stands about 1.10 to 1.30 meters tall at the withers and weighs between 45 and 70 kg. This mammal primarily inhabits the savannas and open grasslands of East Africa, notably in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It mainly feeds on grasses and herbaceous plants but can also consume leaves and fruits when grass resources are limited. The Common Damalisque is known for its social behaviors, typically living in groups of females and young, while adult males are often solitary or form small groups. During the breeding season, males fight to defend their territory and access females. While it is currently listed as of least concern, the Common Damalisque faces threats such as habitat loss due to agriculture and urban expansion, as well as hunting for its meat and skin.
Rock Hyrax

Rock Hyrax

Procavia capensis

The rock hyrax, or Procavia capensis, is a small herbivorous mammal found in Africa and the Middle East. It resembles a large rodent but is more closely related to elephants. Measuring about 50 cm in length and weighing 4 to 5 kg, it has dense brown fur, rounded ears, and short legs. Rock hyraxes live in colonies and are often seen basking on rocks. They communicate through a variety of calls and have a complex social structure. Although primarily herbivorous, they may also consume insects. Their adaptation to rocky environments allows them to evade many predators.
Cape Petrel

Cape Petrel

Daption capense

The Cape Petrel, or Daption capense, is a medium-sized seabird known for its striking black and white plumage. It primarily inhabits the cold waters of the Southern Ocean, often seen gliding over the waves. Its short, hooked black beak is well-suited for its diet of crustaceans, small fish, and marine debris. The Cape Petrel is an adept swimmer, using its wings to propel itself underwater. It nests in colonies on subantarctic islands, digging burrows in soft soil to lay a single egg. Although its habitat is remote from human activities, it faces threats from climate change and marine pollution.
White-beaked dolphin

White-beaked dolphin

Lagenorhynchus albirostris

The White-beaked Dolphin is a small cetacean from the Delphinidae family, easily recognizable by its white beak and distinctive markings on its body. It typically measures between 1.5 and 2.5 meters in length and weighs between 70 and 150 kg. This dolphin primarily inhabits the cold and temperate waters of the North Atlantic, particularly around Iceland, Greenland, and the North American coasts. It primarily feeds on fish and cephalopods, using group hunting techniques to capture its prey. The White-beaked Dolphin is often seen in small groups or families, and it is known for its complex social behaviors, including group play and acrobatic leaps. This dolphin has a lifespan of about 20 to 30 years in the wild. Although the species is not currently endangered, it faces threats from pollution, underwater noise, and ship collisions. Managing its marine habitats is crucial for the preservation of this species.
Common dolphin

Common dolphin

Delphinus delphis

The Common Dolphin is a medium-sized cetacean, easily recognizable by its streamlined body and distinctive beak. It typically measures between 2 and 2.5 meters in length and weighs between 100 and 150 kg. This dolphin is widely distributed in temperate and tropical waters, particularly in the Mediterranean, the Atlantic, and the seas around Asia. The Common Dolphin primarily feeds on fish, cephalopods, and sometimes small crustaceans, hunting in highly coordinated groups. Its social structure is complex, with groups ranging from a few individuals to several hundred, depending on environmental conditions and the availability of food resources. It is also known for its acrobatic behaviors, such as jumping and group play, and is often seen following boats. While this species is not currently endangered, it faces threats from pollution, disturbances caused by human activities at sea, and bycatch in fishing nets.
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.
Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin
The Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin measures 2–3 m and weighs 150–230 kg, with a light grey streamlined body and a short beak. It forms small coastal groups in shallow tropical and subtropical waters, feeding on fish, cephalopods and crustaceans. Highly social and playful, it often interacts with boats, performing spectacular leaps and bow-riding.
South Asian river dolphin

South Asian river dolphin

Platanista gangetica

The South Asian river dolphin is a small freshwater cetacean in the family Platanistidae, measuring 2–2.5 m in length, with a pale grey streamlined body and a long narrow beak. It inhabits shallow rivers, oxbow lakes, and canals of the South Asian subcontinent, feeding mainly on freshwater fish and crustaceans. Blind, it uses echolocation to navigate and hunt in turbid waters.
Irrawaddy dolphin

Irrawaddy dolphin

Orcaella brevirostris

The Irrawaddy dolphin, Orcaella brevirostris, is a freshwater and coastal cetacean known for its rounded forehead and lack of a distinct beak. It typically measures between 2 and 2.7 meters and weighs up to 150 kg. Its skin is light gray with a paler belly. This dolphin is often seen in small groups and is noted for its social and curious behavior. It can swim in both freshwater and saltwater, frequenting estuaries, rivers, and coasts. Unfortunately, it is threatened by habitat degradation, accidental capture in fishing nets, and pollution. Its conservation is crucial to maintaining the balance of the aquatic ecosystems it inhabits.
Poison dart frog

Poison dart frog

Dendrobatidae

The Dendrobatidés, belonging to the Dendrobatidae family, is a small frog known for its bright colors and toxic behavior. These frogs typically measure between 2 and 6 centimeters in length and are easily recognizable by their shiny, colorful skin, which can be yellow, blue, red, or green, depending on the species. They are primarily found in the humid tropical forests of Central and South America. Their diet consists of insects, small arthropods, and occasionally small worms. Dendrobatidéss are known for their toxic secretions, which serve as defense against predators. These toxins mainly come from their diet, particularly ants and beetles that contain alkaloids. Dendrobatidéss are also both terrestrial and aquatic creatures, typically laying their eggs in humid places, where their tadpoles develop in small pools of water or decaying leaves. Although fascinating, Dendrobatidéss are vulnerable to habitat loss due to deforestation and pollution.