The Azureus Poison Dart Frog is a brightly colored and striking species, known for its vivid blue color that varies in intensity. Native to the humid tropical forests of Guyana, Suriname, and Brazil, it is famous for its camouflage abilities and skin glands that secrete potent toxins, used for defense against predators. This frog is primarily terrestrial and lives in areas near streams and swamps, where it feeds on insects and other small prey. Due to its coloration, it serves as a warning signal to predators. It is primarily diurnal.
The agile frog is a small terrestrial frog of 6–8 cm with light brownish-red dorsal coloration and pale throat, equipped with strong hind legs. It inhabits open woodland edges, damp meadows and hedgerows, feeding on insects and spiders. During the breeding season, males call from the water’s edge to attract females into shallow water.
The American Bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus, is a species of frog native to North America. Known for its large size, it can reach up to 20 cm in length and weigh over 500 grams. Its skin is typically green or brown with darker spots, and it has powerful hind legs adapted for jumping and swimming. This frog is often found near stagnant water bodies like ponds, marshes, and lakes. It is famous for its loud, deep call that resembles a bull's bellow, hence its name. An opportunistic feeder, it consumes a variety of insects, small fish, and even small birds and mammals.
The Asiatic cheetah, or Iranian cheetah, is a rare subspecies of cheetah primarily found in Iran. It is distinguished by its tawny coat with black spots and its slender, speed-adapted body. This feline is a symbol of Iranian wildlife but is critically endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and a decrease in natural prey. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and raising awareness among local communities. The Asiatic cheetah is a diurnal hunter, using its incredible speed to catch prey such as gazelles and hares.
The African Pygmy Hedgehog, scientifically known as Atelerix albiventris, is a small insectivorous mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is easily identifiable by its spiny back and white belly. This hedgehog measures about 15 to 25 cm in length and weighs between 300 and 600 grams. Primarily nocturnal, it feeds on insects, small invertebrates, and occasionally fruits. In captivity, it is often kept as a pet due to its compact size and generally docile nature. However, it requires specific care, including a suitable habitat and balanced diet to remain healthy.
The Asiatic lion, or Panthera leo persica, is a subspecies of lion found primarily in the Gir Forest of India. Smaller than its African counterpart, it is distinguished by a less developed mane and a distinctive belly fold. Asiatic lions live in groups called prides, consisting of a few females and their cubs, while adult males are often solitary or in small groups. They primarily hunt ungulates such as sambar and chital. Although their population has increased due to conservation efforts, they remain endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
The Arctic Wolf is a subspecies of the gray wolf, primarily found in the cold and snowy regions of the Arctic, particularly in northern Canada, Alaska, and Greenland. It measures about 1.5 to 2 meters in length, including its tail, and weighs between 30 and 50 kg, with males generally being larger than females. Its coat is thick and pure white, allowing it to blend perfectly into the snowy landscapes. This wolf has evolved to adapt to the extreme conditions of its environment, with wide paws that allow it to walk in deep snow, and dense fur that protects it from the cold. The Arctic Wolf lives in family groups, typically consisting of 5 to 10 individuals, who hunt together for prey such as caribou, birds, and other mammals. Although this subspecies is adapted to its environment, it is vulnerable to climate change, which affects the distribution of its prey and natural habitat. The Arctic Wolf is also threatened by hunting and habitat loss due to human activity.
The Canis lupus pambasileus, commonly known as the Alaskan wolf, is a subspecies of the gray wolf primarily inhabiting the wild regions of Alaska and the Yukon. Known for its large size and thick fur, this wolf is well adapted to the harsh climatic conditions of its habitat. It lives in structured packs, allowing it to efficiently hunt large prey such as caribou and moose. The Alaskan wolf plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by regulating prey populations. Although generally wary of humans, it can be observed from a distance in national parks. Its conservation is vital for maintaining the ecological balance of its environment.
The Golden Wolf is a medium-sized canid native to the Middle East and certain regions of East Africa. It measures about 1.2 to 1.5 meters in length, including its tail, and weighs between 11 and 20 kg. Its coat is generally golden yellow or light brown, with black markings on its back and legs, and lighter shades on its belly. It has long, pointed ears and a narrow, elongated head. The Golden Wolf is primarily carnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and sometimes fruits. It lives in family groups or small packs and often hunts cooperatively with other members of the group. The Golden Wolf prefers open areas such as savannas, steppes, and mountains and is particularly adapted to semi-arid environments. Although the species is not immediately endangered, it is threatened by habitat loss, human conflict, and competition with larger carnivores such as jackals and lions.
The African clawless otter is a semi-aquatic mustelid, 60–100 cm long, with dark brown fur and a paler throat. Found across tropical and subtropical sub-Saharan Africa, it inhabits rivers, lakes, swamps, and estuaries. An excellent swimmer, it feeds on fish, crustaceans, and molluscs, diving skillfully to capture its prey.
The Assam macaque, or Macaca assamensis, is a medium-sized primate native to the forests of Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its gray-brown fur and pink face, often surrounded by a lighter beard of hair. This monkey lives in complex social groups led by a dominant male. It is primarily arboreal but often descends to the ground to forage. An omnivore, its diet includes fruits, leaves, insects, and small animals. The Assam macaque plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, thus contributing to the health of its ecosystem. Unfortunately, it is threatened by deforestation and hunting, leading to a decline in its populations.
The Atlantic Puffin is a seabird characteristic of the coasts of the North Atlantic, particularly around the British Isles, Greenland, Iceland, and parts of Canada. It measures about 30 cm in length, with a wingspan of 50 to 60 cm, and weighs between 300 and 500 g. It is distinguished by its black and white plumage and its colorful beak, which is bright orange with red and blue bands during the breeding season. Outside of the breeding period, the Atlantic Puffin loses its bright colors and its beak becomes paler. This bird is an excellent diver, primarily feeding on fish and crustaceans, which it catches by diving underwater with great agility. The Atlantic Puffin is also known for its social behavior, gathering in large colonies during breeding on cliffs or remote islands. Although it is widely distributed, the Atlantic Puffin is sensitive to human disturbances, such as disruptions caused by tourism, and ocean pollution, particularly oil spills.
The African penguin, also known as the Jackass penguin, is a species of penguin found along the southwestern coast of Africa, primarily in South Africa and Namibia. It is easily recognizable by its black-and-white plumage and the large pink band around its eyes. This penguin is an excellent swimmer, feeding mainly on fish and crustaceans. While it is an iconic species of the region, it is endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing.
The Alpine Marmot is a large rodent primarily found in the mountainous regions of Europe, especially in the Alps, the Pyrenees, and the mountains of Italy. It measures about 40 to 60 cm in length, with a tail of 10 to 15 cm, and weighs between 3 and 7 kg, with females generally being a little smaller than males. Its coat is thick and typically brown-gray, with a lighter belly, allowing it to blend into its rocky and grassy environment. The Alpine Marmot lives in burrows dug into the ground, where it takes refuge to sleep, escape predators, and hibernate during the winter, a period when it enters a state of torpor for several months. During the summer season, it primarily feeds on grasses, roots, flowers, and berries. The Alpine Marmot is a social animal, typically living in family groups or colonies. While its population remains relatively stable, it is threatened by climate change and human development of its natural habitat.
The Alpine Swift is a large swift measuring between 20 and 23 cm in length, with a wingspan of 51 to 58 cm. It has a white belly and throat, separated by a brown pectoral band, and a brown-gray back. It is often confused with the Common Swift, but it is larger and more robust. A migratory species, it winters in tropical Africa and returns to Europe between March and April. It primarily nests in inaccessible rock cavities but can also occupy urban sites. It feeds exclusively on insects captured in flight, often at high altitudes. It is monogamous, and pair bonds can last over ten years. In Switzerland, it is present from late March to late October. A protected species, it is considered potentially threatened due to the loss of its natural nesting sites.
The Mouflon is a small wild sheep found primarily in the mountains of Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. It measures between 70 and 80 cm in height at the withers and weighs between 40 and 80 kg, with males generally being larger and more imposing than females. What distinguishes the Mouflon is the presence of large, curved horns in males, while females have smaller and less pronounced horns. Their coat is generally reddish-brown in the summer, with a white belly and a darker mane along the back, which becomes thicker and fuller in the winter. The Mouflon primarily inhabits mountainous areas, forests, and meadows, where it feeds on grasses, leaves, shrubs, and roots. It is an excellent climber and moves easily across rocky and steep terrain. While its population remains stable, the Mouflon may be threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and competition with domesticated livestock.
The Asian mouflon, or Ovis orientalis, is a mammal from the Bovidae family, native to the mountains of Western Asia. It is recognizable by its large, spiraled horns, especially prominent in males. Its coat ranges from brown to gray, with lighter shades on the belly and legs. Mouflons live in herds, often segregated by sex, and navigate rugged, rocky terrains. They are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses and low-growing plants. Their social behavior is complex, with established hierarchies within groups. Males compete during the rutting season to assert dominance and gain access to females.
Native to the savannas and forests of sub-Saharan Africa, the Aardvark is a nocturnal mammal that primarily feeds on termites and ants. It has a long sticky tongue which it uses to extract insects from their burrows. This mammal is easily recognizable by its large ears, elongated snout, and sturdy limbs. Although relatively discreet, the Aardvark is threatened by habitat loss and poaching.
The Andean Goose, or Chloephaga melanoptera, is a striking bird of the Andes, known for its black wings contrasting with its white plumage. It inhabits mountainous regions of South America, mainly in Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. This robust bird is well adapted to high altitudes, often seen near high-altitude lakes and marshes. Andean Geese are monogamous and form lifelong pairs. They primarily feed on aquatic vegetation and grasses. Their behavior is generally not very shy, allowing for easy observation. However, their remote and challenging habitat makes study more complex.
The Andean Bear, also known as the spectacled bear, is a large mammal found primarily in the tropical forests and mountains of South America, particularly in Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru. It measures about 1.5 to 2 meters in length and weighs between 100 and 200 kg. Its coat is generally black, with white or cream markings around its eyes in the shape of spectacles, hence its name. The Andean Bear is an omnivore, primarily feeding on fruits, plants, honey, and insects, but it may also eat small mammals or birds. It is an excellent climber, using its powerful claws to move through trees in search of food. Although its population remains stable in some areas, the Andean Bear is threatened by habitat loss, deforestation, and poaching.
The American Black Bear is a large carnivore primarily found in North America, in forests, mountains, and wooded areas. It measures between 1.5 and 2.5 meters in length and weighs between 45 and 250 kg, depending on the subspecies and habitat conditions. Its coat ranges from black to light brown, and it has a short muzzle and a large head. The Black Bear is an omnivore, primarily feeding on fruits, berries, nuts, roots, fish, small mammals, and sometimes carrion. It is also an excellent climber and a skilled swimmer, capable of moving through trees and crossing rivers in search of food. While its population remains relatively stable, the Black Bear is threatened by habitat loss, vehicle collisions, and hunting.
The Asiatic Black Bear, also known as the Tibetan Bear, is a medium-sized mammal found primarily in the mountains of Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, China, and Russia. It measures between 1.2 and 1.8 meters in length and weighs between 60 and 200 kg. Its coat is typically black, with a distinctive white "V"-shaped mark on its chest. The Asiatic Black Bear is an omnivore, feeding on fruits, berries, roots, small animals, insects, and occasionally carrion. It is an excellent climber and spends much of its time in trees, where it feeds and rests. While the Asiatic Black Bear remains relatively common in some regions, it faces numerous threats such as habitat loss, illegal hunting, and poaching for its body parts.
The Arabian Bustard, Ardeotis arabs, is a large terrestrial bird primarily inhabiting the arid and semi-arid regions of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is recognizable by its brown and white plumage, long neck, and sturdy legs. Males are generally larger than females and can reach an impressive wingspan. This bird prefers open plains and savannas where it feeds mainly on seeds, insects, and small vertebrates. Although capable of flight, the Arabian Bustard spends most of its time on the ground. It is known for its spectacular courtship displays where the male puffs up its feathers to attract the attention of females.
The American White Pelican, or Pelecanus erythrorhynchos, is a large aquatic bird known for its striking white plumage and bright orange bill. It is primarily found in North America, frequenting lakes, rivers, and wetlands. In flight, its black wings contrast with its white body, creating a majestic silhouette. This gregarious bird feeds mainly on fish, which it captures using its bill's expandable pouch. During the breeding season, it forms colonies on isolated islands. Although its conservation status is currently "least concern," it is sensitive to human disturbances and water pollution.
The American pika is a small lagomorph mammal, 15–23 cm in length, with a stocky body, short limbs, and small rounded ears, covered in brownish-gray fur. It inhabits alpine rocky slopes and talus fields of North America, from British Columbia to New Mexico, at elevations of 1400–3800 m, feeding on mosses, grasses, and leaves.
The African rock python is one of the largest snakes in Africa, reaching lengths of up to 7 meters. It has a robust body covered in intricate patterns of brown, yellow, and black scales, providing excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. This primarily nocturnal snake preys on a variety of animals, from rodents to antelopes. Although non-venomous, it kills its prey through constriction. Often found near water, it is an adept swimmer. Its presence is crucial for ecological balance, yet it faces threats from hunting and habitat loss.
The Litoria caerulea, commonly known as the Australian Green Tree Frog, is a species of arboreal frog native to Australia and New Guinea. It is easily recognizable by its smooth, shiny skin, which is typically emerald green, although some may exhibit bluish hues. This frog is known for its longevity, living up to 16 years in captivity. It has adhesive discs on its fingers, allowing it to climb vertical surfaces with ease. The Australian Green Tree Frog is often found in humid areas, rainforests, and urban gardens. Its docile nature makes it a popular pet.
The Arctic Fox is a small carnivore found in the Arctic regions, primarily in Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia, and Russia. It measures about 45 to 50 cm in length, with a tail of 30 to 35 cm, and weighs between 3 and 9 kg, depending on the seasons. Its fur is typically white in winter, allowing it to camouflage in the snow, while it takes on a more brown or grayish hue in summer to blend in with the rocky and grassy landscapes. The Arctic Fox is an opportunistic omnivore, feeding on small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and berries. Although well adapted to the extreme living conditions of the Arctic, it is threatened by climate change, which is altering its natural habitat and the availability of its prey.
The Vulpes vulpes alascensis, or Alaskan Red Fox, is a subspecies of the red fox found primarily in coastal and interior regions of Alaska. This fox is well adapted to cold climates, with a dense and thick coat that protects it from extreme temperatures. Its fur ranges from bright red to dark brown, with a characteristic bushy tail. An opportunistic feeder, it preys on small mammals, birds, insects, and occasionally fruits. Although primarily nocturnal, it can be seen at dawn and dusk. The Alaskan Red Fox is a solitary animal, except during the breeding season. It is known for its intelligence and ability to adapt to various environments, allowing it to survive in harsh conditions.