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.


Scottish ptarmigan

Scottish ptarmigan

Lagopus lagopus scotica

The Scottish Ptarmigan, or Lagopus lagopus scotica, is a subspecies of the Willow Ptarmigan, specifically found in the mountains of Scotland. It measures about 30 to 35 cm in length and weighs between 300 and 450 g. Its plumage changes with the seasons: in winter, it is entirely white, allowing it to blend perfectly into the snow, while in summer, it has a brown-red spotted plumage that makes it blend into the Scottish moorlands. The Scottish Ptarmigan inhabits the highlands, particularly in the northern mountains of Scotland, where it primarily feeds on plants, berries, seeds, and young shoots. Although it is a bird difficult to spot due to its excellent camouflage, it remains vulnerable to climate change and the loss of its natural habitat. The Scottish Ptarmigan is also threatened by predation from foxes and mustelids and by human activities, including tourism and land management.
Sand lizard

Sand lizard

Lacerta agilis

The sand lizard, Lacerta agilis, is a medium-sized reptile, typically measuring between 15 and 25 cm in length, including the tail. Its coloration ranges from brown to green, with spotted patterns that help it blend into its surroundings. Males often display a brighter green hue, especially during the breeding season. This lizard is primarily found in Europe, favoring open habitats such as grasslands, sand dunes, and forest edges. Active during the day, it basks in the sun to regulate its body temperature. It feeds on insects, spiders, and occasionally small invertebrates. Although its conservation status is concerning in some areas, it remains relatively common in others.
Snake-eyed Lizard

Snake-eyed Lizard

Ophisops elegans

Ophisops elegans, commonly known as the snake-eyed lizard, is a small, agile reptile, typically measuring between 15 and 20 cm in length. Its smooth skin features a brown-green coloration with lighter patterns on the back, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings. This lizard is particularly recognizable by its transparent eyelids, giving it a unique gaze. It is primarily found in the arid and semi-arid regions of the Middle East and Southwest Asia, where it prefers rocky habitats and open grasslands. Active mainly during the day, it feeds on insects and other small invertebrates.
Scrub Hare

Scrub Hare

Lepus microtis

The Lepus microtis, commonly known as the scrub hare, is a medium-sized mammal found primarily in the savannas and grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa. This hare is easily recognizable by its long ears and grayish-brown fur, which helps it blend into its surroundings. It is mainly nocturnal, allowing it to avoid daytime predators. The scrub hare is an herbivore, feeding primarily on grasses, leaves, and young shoots. It has a remarkable ability to adapt, allowing it to survive in various habitats, from grassy plains to bushy areas. Although often solitary, it can sometimes be seen in small groups.
Scrub Hare

Scrub Hare

Lepus saxatilis

The Lepus saxatilis, commonly known as the scrub hare, is a medium-sized mammal belonging to the Leporidae family. It is primarily found in Southern Africa, inhabiting savannas, grasslands, and rocky areas. This hare is recognizable by its brown-grey fur, which provides excellent camouflage, and its long ears that offer superb hearing. Mostly nocturnal, it feeds on grasses, leaves, and bark. Although often solitary, it can sometimes be seen in small groups. Its speed and agility are its main defenses against predators.
Steller sea lion

Steller sea lion

Eumetopias jubatus

The Steller sea lion is the largest otariid, with males reaching up to 3.3 m in length and weighing 600–1000 kg, with thick chestnut fur and a large head. It inhabits rocky shores and temperate coastal waters of the North Pacific, feeding mainly on fish, squid and crustaceans. During the breeding season, dominant males arrive in May to establish territories and harems, and females give birth to a single pup on shore in June–July.
Smooth-coated otter

Smooth-coated otter

Lutrogale perspicillata

The smooth-coated otter, Lutrogale perspicillata, is a semi-aquatic mammal belonging to the Mustelidae family. It is recognizable by its dense, smooth fur, typically dark brown on the back and lighter on the belly. This species is primarily found in South and Southeast Asia, inhabiting rivers, lakes, and swamps. It is well adapted to aquatic life with its webbed feet and muscular tail, allowing it to swim gracefully. The smooth-coated otter is a social animal, often living in family groups. It primarily feeds on fish but can also consume crustaceans and small mammals. Although its conservation status is concerning due to habitat loss and pollution, it plays a crucial role in the aquatic ecosystem.
Sea Otter

Sea Otter

Enhydra lutris

The Sea Otter is a marine aquatic mammal primarily found along the coasts of the Pacific Ocean, particularly in North America and Northeast Asia. It measures between 1 and 1.5 meters in length, with a short tail of about 30 cm, and weighs between 14 and 45 kg, with females generally being smaller than males. Its coat is extremely dense and waterproof, with fine hairs that help it stay warm in the cold ocean waters. Unlike many other marine mammals, the Sea Otter does not have a layer of fat beneath its skin, making its fur all the more crucial for survival. This carnivore primarily feeds on shellfish, crustaceans, mollusks, fish, and sea urchins, often using rocks as tools to open them. The Sea Otter often lives in family groups called "rafts," floating together on the water's surface. Although it is protected in many areas, the Sea Otter is still threatened by pollution, habitat loss, and hunting.
Southern rockhopper penguin

Southern rockhopper penguin

Eudyptes chrysocome

Small penguin 45–60 cm long, 2–4.3 kg, with contrasting black-and-white plumage and distinctive yellow crest tufts on each side of the head. Occurs on subantarctic islands, feeds mainly on crustaceans, fish and krill, diving to 100 m, and breeds in large colonies on rocky shores.
Slender mongoose

Slender mongoose

Helogale parvula

The Slender mongoose is a small species of mongoose often found in the savannas and dry forests of East Africa. It primarily feeds on small insects, reptiles, and occasionally small mammals. With its slender body and quick movements, it is highly agile and often lives in family groups. Slender mongooses are very social and communicate with each other through vocalizations and visual signals. Although abundant, this species may be locally threatened by habitat loss.
Smyrna kingfisher

Smyrna kingfisher

Halcyon smyrnensis

The Smyrna Kingfisher is a colorful, medium-sized bird found primarily in Southeast Asia and surrounding regions. It measures about 25 to 30 cm in length and weighs between 40 and 70 g. This kingfisher is distinguished by its brilliant plumage and vibrant colors: a metallic blue back, an orange-red head, and a white belly. Its bill is long, straight, and pointed, perfect for catching prey such as fish, aquatic insects, and small reptiles. The Smyrna Kingfisher typically lives near bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and marshes, where it can dive to catch its food. It is often observed alone or in pairs during the breeding season when it builds a nest in tree cavities or rocks. Although its population remains relatively stable in some areas, it faces threats such as habitat destruction and water pollution.
Striped skunk

Striped skunk

Mephitis mephitis

The striped skunk, or Mephitis mephitis, is a mammal renowned for its ability to spray a foul-smelling liquid when threatened. It features a black coat with two distinct white stripes running down its back. Primarily nocturnal, it feeds on insects, small mammals, fruits, and plants. It inhabits various environments, from forests to urban areas. Although often seen as a pest, it plays a crucial ecological role in controlling insect and rodent populations. The striped skunk is generally solitary, except during the breeding season.
Snow sheep

Snow sheep

Ovis nivicola

The snow sheep, or Ovis nivicola, is a robust mammal primarily inhabiting the mountainous regions of the Russian Far East. It is characterized by its thick, woolly coat, which is well-suited to the harsh climatic conditions of its habitat. Males have large, spiraled horns, while females have smaller ones. Their diet mainly consists of grasses, lichens, and mosses. These animals are well adapted to high altitudes, where they find refuge on rocky and steep slopes. Their behavior is generally suspicious, making them difficult to approach. They live in small groups, often consisting of females and young, while adult males may be solitary or form separate groups.
Siberian Musk Deer

Siberian Musk Deer

Moschus moschiferus

The Siberian Musk Deer, scientifically known as Moschus moschiferus, is a small deer species notable for its lack of antlers and the presence of long canine teeth in males. These animals are primarily nocturnal and inhabit the coniferous forests and mountainous regions of Northern Asia, particularly in Russia, Mongolia, and China. Their thick, brown fur provides excellent camouflage in their natural habitat. Male musk deer produce a fragrant substance, musk, which has been used in perfumery for centuries. Although their population is declining due to hunting for musk and habitat loss, they remain a fascinating and iconic species of the Siberian forests.
Snowfinch

Snowfinch

Montifringilla nivalis

The snowfinch is a small mountain passerine measuring 14–16 cm, with grey-brown plumage, a distinctive black crown and a contrasting white rump. It inhabits high-altitude environments such as alpine meadows, scree slopes and mountain roadsides, feeding mainly on insects and seeds. During the breeding season, the male performs song flights and aerial displays over its territory to attract the female, and pairs build a nest in rock cavities or under stones.
Sumatran Orangutan

Sumatran Orangutan

Pongo abelii

The Sumatran orangutan is a majestic primate, measuring between 1.2 and 1.4 meters in height and weighing between 30 and 70 kg. It has a shiny reddish fur, with long arms adapted to its arboreal lifestyle. Native to the island of Sumatra in Indonesia, this orangutan primarily inhabits tropical lowland forests and swampy areas. Its diet mainly consists of fruits, leaves, bark, and small insects. It is primarily solitary and has a great ability to camouflage among the trees. Unfortunately, this species is critically endangered due to massive deforestation, forest fires, and illegal hunting.
Scimitar oryx

Scimitar oryx

Oryx dammah

The Scimitar oryx, also known as the Sahara oryx, is a medium-sized antelope distinguished by its long, backward-curving horns and white coat with brown markings on the face and neck. Native to the desert and semi-desert regions of North Africa, this species is well adapted to arid environments. It can survive without water for extended periods, obtaining necessary moisture from its food. Unfortunately, the scimitar oryx is classified as extinct in the wild, primarily due to excessive hunting and habitat loss. Reintroduction efforts are underway in some areas to restore viable populations.
Syrian brown bear

Syrian brown bear

Ursus arctos syriacus

The Ursus arctos syriacus, or Syrian brown bear, is a subspecies of the brown bear found mainly in the mountainous regions of the Middle East. Medium-sized, it has a light brown to beige coat, often paler than its European relatives. This bear is omnivorous, feeding on plants, fruits, insects, and occasionally small mammals. Although generally solitary, it can be seen in groups when food is abundant. Its population is declining due to habitat loss and hunting. Protecting this animal is crucial to maintaining the ecological balance of its environment.
Sloth bear

Sloth bear

Melursus ursinus

The Sloth Bear, also known as the lip bear, is a large carnivorous mammal primarily found in the tropical and subtropical forests of India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. It measures about 1.4 to 1.8 meters in length and weighs between 50 and 150 kg. What particularly distinguishes the Sloth Bear is its face, which has highly mobile lips and long fur around the mouth, giving it its name. Its coat is generally black with white markings on the chest and throat, forming a sort of crescent shape. The Sloth Bear is an omnivore, feeding on fruits, honey, insects, roots, and small animals. Although it is primarily terrestrial, it is also capable of climbing trees. Due to habitat loss and poaching, this species is currently listed as vulnerable.
Snow Leopard

Snow Leopard

Panthera uncia

The Snow Leopard, also known as the ounce, is a large cat primarily found in the mountains of the Himalayas, Tibet, Central Asia, and the Pamir Mountains. It measures between 1.1 and 1.3 meters in length, with a tail of 80 to 100 cm, and weighs between 27 and 55 kg. Its thick, dense fur, which is light gray to white with dark rosettes, allows it to blend perfectly into its snowy environment. The Snow Leopard is a solitary carnivore, primarily feeding on wild goats, sheep, small deer, and sometimes small mammals. It is an excellent climber and stealthy hunter, capable of pouncing on its prey from high ground. Unfortunately, this species is threatened by illegal hunting, poaching, and habitat loss. It is currently listed as "vulnerable" by the IUCN.
Senegal parrot

Senegal parrot

Poicephalus senegalus

The Senegal parrot is a small parrot that lives in the savannas and forests of West Africa, particularly in Senegal, Guinea, and Mali. It is easily recognizable by its bright green plumage, gray head, and red cheeks. This parrot is primarily frugivorous but also feeds on seeds and nuts. It is a social and active companion, living in small groups. While not threatened, it is sometimes captured for the exotic bird trade.
Sugar glider

Sugar glider

Petaurus breviceps

The sugar glider, or Petaurus breviceps, is a small arboreal marsupial native to Australia and New Guinea. Known for its ability to glide using a membrane called the patagium, which stretches from its wrists to its ankles, this small animal weighs between 90 and 150 grams. It is primarily nocturnal and feeds on nectar, tree sap, insects, and fruits. Its soft, gray fur with a distinctive black stripe running from its nose to its back makes it easily recognizable. Living in social groups, the sugar glider uses a variety of vocalizations to communicate. Although popular as a pet, it requires specific care to thrive in captivity.
Spotted seal

Spotted seal

Phoca largha

The spotted seal, or Phoca largha, is a medium-sized marine mammal known for its light gray coat adorned with dark spots. It primarily inhabits the cold waters of the North Pacific Ocean, particularly around the coasts of Alaska, Russia, and Japan. This seal is well adapted to aquatic life, with a streamlined body and powerful flippers that allow it to swim gracefully. It feeds mainly on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Spotted seals are often solitary but may gather in small groups during the breeding season or at haul-out sites. Their population is currently stable, although threats such as pollution and climate change may impact their habitat.
Southern Grey Shrike

Southern Grey Shrike

Lanius meridionalis

The Southern Grey Shrike is a medium-sized bird, recognizable by its grey and white plumage, with black wings and a distinctive black band across the eyes. It is often seen perched on bushes or wires, watching for prey. This bird is a formidable predator, feeding mainly on insects, small mammals, and other birds. It is known for impaling its prey on thorns or barbed wire, a technique that allows it to store food. The Southern Grey Shrike is a territorial bird, often solitary, except during the breeding season when it forms pairs.
Striped hyena

Striped hyena

Proteles cristatus

The Striped hyena is a terrestrial carnivore native to North Africa and the Middle East. It is distinguished by the characteristic stripes on its back and its somewhat awkward gait. This nocturnal predator primarily feeds on carrion, small mammals, and insects. Unlike other hyenas, the Striped hyena is more solitary and less aggressive. Although relatively discreet, it is threatened by habitat destruction and human persecution.
Southern pudu

Southern pudu

Pudu puda

The southern pudu is the world's smallest deer, measuring 35–45 cm at the shoulder and weighing 7–10 kg, with dense reddish-brown fur. A secretive and crepuscular species of temperate South American forests, it feeds mainly on leaves, fungi and fallen fruits. During the rutting period, males mark a small territory by rubbing against shrubs and emitting soft calls.
Sooty Shearwater

Sooty Shearwater

Puffinus griseus

The Sooty Shearwater is a medium-sized seabird known for its dark brown plumage and long, slender wings. It is often seen gliding close to the ocean waves, skillfully using air currents to travel great distances. This tireless migrator covers thousands of kilometers between its breeding sites in the southern hemisphere and feeding areas in the northern hemisphere. It nests mainly on remote islands, digging burrows in the ground to lay a single egg. The Sooty Shearwater feeds primarily on fish and squid, diving underwater to catch its prey. Although its population is still large, it is threatened by industrial fishing and climate change.
Steller's sea eagle

Steller's sea eagle

Haliaeetus pelagicus

The Steller's Sea Eagle is a large raptor primarily found along the coasts of Northeast Asia, particularly in Russia and Japan. It measures about 85 to 105 cm in length, with a wingspan of 2.2 to 2.5 meters, and weighs between 4 and 9 kg, making it one of the largest eagles in the world. Its plumage is primarily dark brown with a white head and pale yellow beak. The Steller's Sea Eagle is an excellent fisherman, primarily feeding on fish, but it also hunts seabirds and marine mammals. It prefers coastal areas and islands where it can find its food and is often seen flying over the seas or resting on rocks or trees. While its population remains relatively stable, this species is vulnerable to habitat loss due to human activity, climate change, and ocean pollution.
Spotted-tailed quoll

Spotted-tailed quoll

Dasyurus maculatus

The spotted-tailed quoll, or Dasyurus maculatus, is a carnivorous marsupial native to Australia. It is characterized by its brown fur with white spots, a long tail, and a slender build. This agile predator is primarily nocturnal, feeding on small mammals, birds, and insects. It inhabits various environments, from rainforests to temperate woodlands. Although a solitary hunter, it can sometimes be seen in small groups during the breeding season. The spotted-tailed quoll plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by regulating prey populations. However, its population is declining due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species.
Southern White Rhinoceros

Southern White Rhinoceros

Ceratotherium simum

The Southern White Rhinoceros is a large herbivorous mammal primarily found in the savannas and grasslands of Southern Africa, notably in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. It is one of the largest species of rhinoceros, measuring up to 4 meters in length and weighing between 1,500 and 2,400 kg. It is distinguished by its large square-shaped mouth, adapted for grazing, and its light gray to grayish skin. The Southern White Rhinoceros is a strict herbivore, primarily feeding on grass, though it may occasionally consume leaves and fruits. While its population has long been threatened by poaching and habitat loss, thanks to conservation efforts, its population has made a remarkable recovery and remains relatively stable.