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.


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.
Numbat

Numbat

Myrmecobius fasciatus

The numbat is a small insectivorous marsupial endemic to Western Australia, measuring 25–35 cm long with a reddish coat marked by horizontal white bands. Strictly diurnal, it feeds almost exclusively on termites, which it captures using its long sticky tongue and powerful front claws. Solitary, it occupies abandoned burrows or natural hollows in dry eucalyptus woodlands and pine forests. During the breeding season, males and females become more territorial and engage in rapid ground chases before mating.
Fairy Pitta

Fairy Pitta

Pitta nympha

The Fairy Pitta, known scientifically as Pitta nympha, is a medium-sized bird renowned for its dazzling plumage that features shades of blue, green, red, and black. This migratory bird is primarily found in East Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. It prefers dense, humid forests where it feeds mainly on insects and small invertebrates. The Fairy Pitta is often difficult to spot due to its elusive behavior and dense habitat. It is currently classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss and increasing deforestation in its breeding and wintering areas.
Leach's Storm Petrel

Leach's Storm Petrel

Oceanodroma leucorhoa

The Leach's Storm Petrel is a small seabird from the Hydrobatidae family, known for its graceful flight and long migrations. It measures about 18 to 21 cm in length with a wingspan of 43 to 48 cm. Its plumage is mostly dark brown with a distinctive white patch at the base of the tail. This bird spends most of its life at sea, only returning to land to breed. It nests in burrows or crevices on isolated islands. The Leach's Storm Petrel primarily feeds on plankton and small fish, which it captures at the water's surface. It is often seen "walking" on water thanks to its webbed feet.
Ocelot

Ocelot

Leopardus pardalis

The Ocelot is a medium-sized wild cat, measuring between 55 and 100 cm in length (excluding the tail) and weighing between 8 and 16 kg. It is distinguished by its spotted and striped coat, which helps it blend effectively into dense forests and wooded areas where it lives. Its fur is generally golden or grayish, with black marks in the form of spots or rosettes across the body. The Ocelot is a nocturnal and solitary hunter, primarily feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. It is agile and fast, capable of climbing trees to hunt or escape predators. This cat is primarily found in Central and South America, in tropical forests, savannas, and mountainous areas. While its population remains stable in some regions, the Ocelot is threatened by deforestation, illegal hunting, and habitat loss.
Eurasian Stone-curlew

Eurasian Stone-curlew

Burhinus oedicnemus

The Stone-curlew is a large, ground-dwelling bird primarily found in open and arid regions of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. It measures about 40 to 45 cm in height and weighs between 350 and 500 g. What distinguishes the Stone-curlew is its cryptic plumage, generally brown-gray in color, allowing it to blend effectively among vegetation or rocks. It has large yellow eyes and a distinctive call, which is often heard during the night, hence its name. This bird primarily feeds on insects, worms, and small invertebrates found on the ground. The Stone-curlew is mostly active at dusk and at night, feeding slowly while scanning its surroundings. While not in immediate danger, it faces threats from habitat loss, intensive agriculture, and human disturbance.
Pink-footed Goose

Pink-footed Goose

Anser brachyrhynchus

The Pink-footed Goose, Anser brachyrhynchus, is a medium-sized waterfowl species belonging to the Anatidae family. It is characterized by its short pink bill, pink legs, and grey-brown plumage. This goose breeds mainly in Iceland, Greenland, and Norway, migrating to the UK and the Netherlands for winter. It prefers wetlands, marshes, and grasslands for feeding, primarily on aquatic plants and grasses. In flight, it forms V-shaped groups, typical of geese. Although its conservation status is currently of "least concern," it is sensitive to climate change and habitat loss.
Bar-headed Goose

Bar-headed Goose

Anser indicus

The Bar-headed Goose, Anser indicus, is a remarkable bird species known for its ability to fly at high altitudes. It is easily recognizable by its white head adorned with two distinct black bars. These migratory birds travel long distances, crossing the Himalayas to reach their breeding grounds in Central Asia. They often gather in large flocks and are known for their V-formation flight. Their plumage is primarily gray with lighter shades on the belly. They mainly feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. Their adaptation to various environments, from plains to mountains, demonstrates their resilience and adaptability.
Greylag goose

Greylag goose

Anser anser

The greylag goose (Anser anser) is a large migratory waterfowl (75–90 cm in length, 130–160 cm wingspan), distinguished by its smoky-grey plumage, orange bill and pink legs. Found across freshwater wetlands, floodplain meadows and lakes of Europe and Asia, it feeds on grasses, aquatic seeds and mollusks. Highly social, it forms large flocks during migration and wintering. Breeding begins in late February when monogamous pairs perform head-bobbing displays and honking calls. The female lays 5–7 eggs in a ground nest lined with vegetation near water, which incubate for 26–28 days. Precocial goslings leave the nest soon after hatching, grazing and seeking cover alongside parents. In flight, geese famously adopt V formations to conserve energy on long-distance migrations.
Japanese White-eye

Japanese White-eye

Zosterops japonicus

The Japanese White-eye, scientifically known as Zosterops japonicus, is a small passerine bird with olive-green plumage and a distinctive white eye-ring. Native to East Asia, it is commonly found in gardens, forests, and urban areas. This bird is highly social and often moves in flocks. It primarily feeds on nectar, fruits, and insects. Its adaptability to various environments makes it a resilient species. Although mainly resident, some individuals migrate seasonally. Its presence is often marked by its melodious song and high-pitched calls.
Okapi

Okapi

Okapia johnstoni

The Okapi is a herbivorous mammal native to the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Central Africa. It measures between 1.5 and 2 meters in length and weighs between 200 and 350 kg, resembling a combination of a giraffe and a horse. Its coat is generally dark brown with characteristic white bands on its legs, similar to those of a zebra, hence its nickname "zebra-headed giraffe." The Okapi is a solitary and secretive animal, primarily feeding on leaves, fruits, and plant shoots. It inhabits dense forests, where it uses its sense of smell and great discretion to escape predators. While its population remains relatively stable, the Okapi is threatened by deforestation, poaching, and human conflict.
Virginia opossum

Virginia opossum

Didelphis virginiana

The Virginia opossum is North America’s only marsupial, 40–60 cm long (excluding tail) and weighing 2–6 kg, with grey fur and a long prehensile tail. An opportunistic omnivore, it inhabits forests, fields, and suburban areas, feeding on fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and carrion. Solitary and nocturnal, it moves slowly on the ground and climbs trees with ease.
Bornean Orangutan

Bornean Orangutan

Pongo pygmaeus

The Bornean orangutan is a large primate, measuring about 1.2 to 1.5 meters in height and weighing between 40 and 90 kg. It is easily recognized by its reddish fur and long arms, which allow it to move effortlessly through the trees. This species is native to the island of Borneo, where it primarily inhabits tropical forests. The Bornean orangutan is an herbivore, feeding mainly on fruits, leaves, bark, and small insects. It is a solitary animal, with very discreet behaviors and a great ability to adapt to its environment. Due to deforestation, illegal hunting, and the loss of its natural habitat, this species is classified as endangered.
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.
Tapanuli Orangutan

Tapanuli Orangutan

Pongo tapanuliensis

The Tapanuli orangutan is a recently discovered primate species, considered one of the rarest and most endangered in the world. It measures about 1.2 meters in height and weighs between 30 and 60 kg. This ape has a shiny reddish coat, with long arms adapted to its life in the trees. Native to the mountains of the Tapanuli region in northern Sumatra, Indonesia, this orangutan primarily inhabits montane tropical forests. It feeds mainly on fruits, leaves, and bark. The Tapanuli orangutan is a solitary and secretive animal and is considered critically endangered due to deforestation, mining, human conflict, and forest fires.
Klipspringer

Klipspringer

Oreotragus oreotragus

The klipspringer is a small African antelope known for its agility on rocky terrains. Standing about 50 cm at the shoulder and weighing between 8 and 18 kg, it has a dense, coarse coat, often brownish-grey, which helps it blend into its surroundings. Its hooves are adapted to grip rocky surfaces, allowing it to move easily across cliffs and escarpments. Klipspringers typically live in pairs or small family groups and are highly territorial. They primarily feed on leaves, fruits, and flowers and can survive without water for extended periods, deriving necessary moisture from their diet.
Yellow-collared Chlorophonia

Yellow-collared Chlorophonia

Chlorophonia callophrys

The Yellow-collared Chlorophonia, or Chlorophonia callophrys, is a small, vibrantly colored bird found primarily in the montane rainforests of Central America. Its plumage is a striking mix of emerald green, blue, and yellow, making it easily recognizable. Both males and females exhibit similar colors, although males are often slightly more vibrant. This bird primarily feeds on fruits but can also consume insects and seeds. It is often observed in small groups or pairs, actively moving through the canopy in search of food. Although its habitat is relatively restricted, it is not currently considered threatened.
Alaskan Moose

Alaskan Moose

Alces alces gigas

The Alaskan moose, or Alces alces gigas, is the largest member of the deer family. It is distinguished by its impressive size, reaching up to 2.1 meters at the shoulder and weighing over 700 kg. Its wide, flat antlers, which can span up to 2 meters, are characteristic of males. The Alaskan moose primarily inhabits the boreal forests and wetlands of Alaska and Canada. It is well adapted to cold climates thanks to its thick coat. As a herbivore, it feeds on leaves, bark, and aquatic plants. Although generally solitary, it can be seen in small groups during the rutting season.
Platypus

Platypus

Ornithorhynchus anatinus

The Platypus is a unique aquatic mammal native to Australia and Tasmania. It measures between 40 and 60 cm in length and weighs around 1 to 2.5 kg. This animal is particularly remarkable due to its appearance, which combines characteristics of different animals: it has a flat bill similar to a duck's, webbed feet adapted for swimming, and a flat tail. The Platypus is a carnivore, primarily feeding on small aquatic invertebrates, worms, and crustaceans. It lives in rivers and lakes, spending much of its time diving underwater in search of food. Although it is an excellent swimmer, the Platypus is also capable of moving quickly on land. This species is listed as "near threatened" due to habitat loss and water pollution.
Orca

Orca

Orcinus orca

The Orca, also known as the "killer whale," is a large cetacean from the dolphin family, measuring between 6 and 8 meters in length and weighing up to 6 tons. It is distinguished by its striking black and white coloration, with white patches around the eyes and on the flanks. The Orca is a top predator in the food chain, primarily feeding on fish, marine mammals, sharks, and sometimes even whales. It lives in social groups called "pods," led by the dominant female, where cooperation and hunting strategies are essential. The Orca is found in all oceans around the world, but it prefers cold and temperate waters. While its population remains relatively stable, the Orca is threatened by pollution, a decline in prey, and human-caused disturbances.
Aardvark

Aardvark

Orycteropus afer

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.
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.
Beisa Oryx

Beisa Oryx

Oryx beisa

The Beisa Oryx is a large antelope found primarily in the arid and semi-desert regions of East Africa, particularly in Somalia, Ethiopia, and Kenya. It stands between 1.2 and 1.5 meters at the shoulder and weighs around 100 to 150 kg. The Beisa Oryx is easily recognized by its long, straight horns, which can reach up to 1 meter in length. Its coat is sandy-colored, with black markings on the flanks, legs, and around the eyes, helping it blend into its desert environment. This herbivore feeds primarily on bushes, grasses, and succulent plants. Although the Beisa Oryx is capable of tolerating extremely high temperatures, it is also well adapted to cover large distances in search of food and water. This species is currently listed as "near threatened" due to habitat loss and hunting.
Gemsbok

Gemsbok

Oryx gazella

The Oryx gazelle is a large, sturdy antelope native to the arid regions of Southern Africa. It stands between 1.2 and 1.5 meters at the withers and weighs between 200 and 250 kg. Its coat is primarily gray or beige, with white markings on the belly, legs, and face, giving it a distinctive appearance. It has long, straight horns, which can reach up to 1 meter in length, and are characteristic of the species. The Oryx gazelle inhabits savannas, steppes, and deserts, where it feeds primarily on herbaceous plants, roots, and fruits. It is well adapted to extreme heat and drought conditions, thanks to its ability to reduce its body temperature and feed on sparse vegetation. While the Oryx gazelle is capable of surviving in desert environments, it is also able to travel long distances in search of food and water. The species is not currently endangered, but it faces threats related to habitat loss and hunting.
Fur seal

Fur seal

Arctocephalus

The Fur Seal, also known as the hair seal, is a marine mammal primarily found along the coasts of the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in Australia, South Africa, and subantarctic islands. It measures between 1.5 and 2.5 meters in length and weighs between 200 and 350 kg. Its dense and waterproof fur, which gives it its name, consists of short, soft hairs covering a layer of subcutaneous fat that insulates it from the cold. The Fur Seal is an excellent swimmer, capable of diving to significant depths to feed on fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans. It lives in colonies, forming strong social groups, especially during the breeding season. While the population of fur seals remains relatively stable, this species is threatened by hunting, habitat loss, and ocean pollution.
New Zealand fur seal

New Zealand fur seal

Arctocephalus forsteri

The Arctocephalus forsteri, commonly known as the New Zealand fur seal, is a marine mammal species belonging to the Otariidae family. These seals are primarily found around the coasts of New Zealand and parts of Australia. They are distinguished by their dense, waterproof fur, which protects them from cold waters. Males are significantly larger than females, reaching up to 2.5 meters in length and weighing around 180 kg, while females measure about 1.5 meters and weigh up to 50 kg. These animals are known for their agility in the water, where they primarily hunt fish and cephalopods. On land, they gather in colonies, especially during the breeding season.
Northern fur seal

Northern fur seal

Callorhinus ursinus

The Northern fur seal, Callorhinus ursinus, is a marine mammal belonging to the Otariidae family. It is distinguished by its thick fur, which allows it to withstand the cold waters of the North Pacific. Males are significantly larger than females, reaching up to 2.1 meters in length and weighing around 270 kg, while females measure about 1.4 meters and weigh 50 kg. These seals are known for their gregarious behavior, forming large colonies on rocky islands to breed. They primarily feed on fish and squid, which they capture during dives that can reach depths of 200 meters.
Bat-eared Fox

Bat-eared Fox

Otocyon megalotis

The Bat-eared Fox is a small carnivore primarily found in the savannas and semi-arid areas of Southern Africa. It measures about 40 to 50 cm in length, with a tail of 25 to 30 cm, and weighs between 1 and 2 kg. Its fur is primarily light gray or beige, with dark markings on the legs and face. What distinguishes it most are its large ears, which resemble those of a bat, and which are highly sensitive, allowing it to locate its prey, primarily insects, small mammals, and birds, through its acute hearing. The Bat-eared Fox is a nocturnal and highly social animal, often living in small groups. While its population remains relatively stable, it can be threatened by habitat destruction and hunting.
Blue-winged Goose

Blue-winged Goose

Cyanochen cyanoptera

The Blue-winged Goose, Cyanochen cyanoptera, is a bird species endemic to the Ethiopian highlands. It is characterized by its grey-brown plumage with bluish tints on the wings, giving it its name. This medium-sized bird, measuring about 70 to 80 cm in length, is often found near lakes and marshes. Its bill is black, and its legs are dark grey. The species is primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses and aquatic plants. Although relatively discreet, it can be seen in small family groups. Habitat conservation is crucial, as it is classified as vulnerable due to the degradation of its natural environment.
Andean Goose

Andean Goose

Chloephaga melanoptera

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.