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.


Bushpig

Bushpig

Potamochoerus larvatus

The bushpig, or Potamochoerus larvatus, is a mammal from the Suidae family, recognizable by its long-haired ears. It primarily inhabits forests, savannas, and wetlands in sub-Saharan Africa. This omnivorous suid feeds on roots, fruits, insects, and occasionally small animals. It lives in family groups and is known for its complex social behavior. Bushpigs are mainly nocturnal, making them difficult to observe. Their coat ranges from reddish-brown to black, with distinctive white facial markings. Although hunted for their meat, their population remains stable due to their adaptability.
Red river hog

Red river hog

Potamochoerus porcus

The red river hog is a mammal from the suid family, recognizable by its reddish coat and ears adorned with long white tufts of hair. It is mainly found in the forests of Central and West Africa. This suid is omnivorous, feeding on roots, fruits, small animals, and insects. It lives in family groups led by a dominant male. Red river hogs are known for their ability to swim and navigate aquatic environments. Their behavior is generally suspicious of humans, although they can become accustomed to their presence in protected areas.
Chiffchaff

Chiffchaff

Phylloscopus collybita

The chiffchaff is a small migratory passerine bird found primarily in clear woods, hedgerows, and gardens across Europe and Asia. It is easily recognized by its greenish plumage and pale belly. This small bird primarily feeds on insects, which it catches by rummaging through vegetation. During the breeding season, it is very active and emits a distinctive song, a series of repetitive notes characteristic of this species.
Wood warbler

Wood warbler

Phylloscopus sibilatrix

The wood warbler is a small insectivorous passerine, 11–13 cm long, with greenish-yellow upperparts, whitish underparts and a bright yellow supercilium. A migratory species of open woodlands with sparse undergrowth, it feeds mainly on insects and spiders captured on the wing or among foliage. During breeding, males sing in flight or from perches to defend their territory.
Willow warbler

Willow warbler

Phylloscopus trochilus

The willow warbler is a small migratory passerine bird found primarily in forests, hedgerows, and bushes across Europe and Asia. It is easily recognizable by its olive-green back and pale yellow belly. This bird is primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects it catches in the vegetation. It is often heard singing in the undergrowth, especially during migration, where it establishes its territory for breeding.
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.
Manx Shearwater

Manx Shearwater

Puffinus puffinus

The Manx Shearwater, Puffinus puffinus, is a medium-sized seabird, measuring about 30 to 38 cm in length with a wingspan of 76 to 89 cm. Its plumage is predominantly black above and white below, allowing it to blend into its marine environment. Known for its long migrations, this bird travels thousands of kilometers between its breeding sites in Europe and wintering grounds in South America. It nests in burrows on isolated islands, often in dense colonies. The Manx Shearwater feeds mainly on fish and squid, diving underwater to catch its prey. Although relatively common, it is vulnerable to introduced predators at its nesting sites.
Balearic Shearwater

Balearic Shearwater

Puffinus mauretanicus

The Balearic Shearwater, Puffinus mauretanicus, is a seabird endemic to the Balearic Islands. It is characterized by its dark brown plumage on top and lighter underneath, with long, narrow wings adapted for gliding over waves. Measuring about 30 to 40 cm in length with a wingspan of 75 to 90 cm, it is perfectly adapted to life at sea. This bird primarily feeds on fish and cephalopods, which it captures by diving underwater. Unfortunately, the Balearic Shearwater is critically endangered due to predation by introduced species, marine pollution, and overfishing, which reduces its food resources.
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.
Puma

Puma

Puma concolor

The Puma is a large feline found primarily in the Americas, from Canada to the southern tip of South America. It measures between 1.1 and 1.8 meters in length, with a tail measuring 60 to 80 cm, and weighs between 40 and 100 kg, depending on the sex and subspecies. Its coat is typically sandy, gray, or brown, with a lighter underside. The Puma is a solitary predator, primarily hunting deer, small mammals, and birds. It is also capable of traveling great distances and adapting to different types of habitats, ranging from mountainous forests to desert areas. While its population remains relatively stable in certain regions, it can be threatened by habitat loss, fragmentation of its territories, and hunting.
European Polecat

European Polecat

Mustela putorius

The European Polecat is a small carnivore found primarily in Europe, inhabiting a variety of environments such as forests, meadows, and agricultural areas. It measures about 45 to 60 cm in length, with a tail of 20 to 30 cm, and weighs between 0.8 and 1.5 kg. Its fur is generally light brown or gray, with lighter underparts and a distinctive black mark on its face, surrounding its eyes. The European Polecat is a nocturnal and opportunistic predator, primarily feeding on small mammals, birds, eggs, as well as fruits and insects. While it is often perceived as a pest by farmers, it plays an important role in regulating populations of small animals. Its population is generally stable, but it can be threatened by habitat loss and road collisions.
White-tailed Pyguargue

White-tailed Pyguargue

Haliaeetus albicilla

The White-tailed Eagle is a large raptor primarily found in Eastern Europe, Northern Asia, and some regions of Central Asia. It measures about 70 to 90 cm in length, with a wingspan of 1.8 to 2.3 meters, and weighs between 3 and 6 kg. Its plumage is primarily brown with a distinctive white head and tail. The White-tailed Eagle is an excellent fisherman, primarily feeding on fish, but it also hunts birds, small mammals, and scavenges carrion. It primarily inhabits areas near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and estuaries. While its population has been growing in some areas due to conservation efforts, this species remains vulnerable to habitat loss, water pollution, and human disturbances.
Bald eagle

Bald eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

The Bald Eagle is a large raptor primarily found in North America, near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. It measures about 70 to 90 cm in length, with a wingspan of 1.8 to 2.3 meters, and weighs between 3 and 6 kg. Its plumage is primarily dark brown with characteristic white head and tail. The Bald Eagle is an excellent hunter, primarily feeding on fish, small mammals, and birds, which it captures by diving or snatching its prey with powerful talons. Although its population once faced a significant decline and was threatened, particularly due to pollution and hunting, the Bald Eagle is now a protected species, and its population has greatly recovered.
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.
Burmese python

Burmese python

Python bivittatus

The Burmese python is a large constrictor snake reaching 5–7 m in length, with a heavy body covered in brown scales patterned with darker blotches. Native to Southeast Asia, it inhabits wetlands, swamps, and tropical forests, preying on mammals and birds. Solitary and primarily nocturnal, it can submerge itself to hunt aquatic prey. During the breeding season, the male actively seeks the female and coils around her prior to egg-laying.
African rock python
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.
Indian python

Indian python

Python molurus

The Indian Python is a large snake primarily found in the Indian subcontinent, including Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. It typically measures between 3 and 4 meters in length, although some specimens can reach up to 6 meters, and weighs between 30 and 90 kg. Its coloration is generally beige or light brown with dark spot-like patterns along its back. The Indian Python is a constrictor, meaning it kills its prey by suffocating it before swallowing it whole. It primarily feeds on mammals, birds, and reptiles, which it captures using its strength and ability to camouflage in its environment. While its population remains relatively stable, this snake can be threatened by habitat loss and hunting for its skin.
Reticulated python

Reticulated python

Malayopython reticulatus

The Reticulated Python is one of the most impressive and longest snakes in the world, growing over 7 meters in length. It is easily recognized by its complex mesh pattern on its skin, which gives it its name. Native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, this python is primarily terrestrial, although it is also capable of climbing trees. It typically hunts mammals and birds, using its constriction power to capture and suffocate its prey. Although generally discreet, it can be dangerous when threatened.
Ball python

Ball python

Python regius

The Ball python, or Python regius, is a constrictor snake native to West and Central Africa. It is favored for its modest size, typically measuring between 90 and 120 cm as an adult, although some specimens can reach 150 cm. Its skin features patterns of dark brown and black spots on a light brown or golden background, providing effective camouflage in its natural habitat. This snake is primarily nocturnal and prefers humid environments such as savannas, forests, and grasslands. In captivity, it is prized for its docile temperament and ease of care, making it a popular choice among reptile enthusiasts.
Green tree python

Green tree python

Morelia viridis

The green tree python is an arboreal snake native to the rainforests of New Guinea and northern Australia. It is easily recognized by its vibrant green color, which helps it blend into the foliage. This python primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, which it captures through ambush. Although non-venomous, it kills its prey by constriction. It is a species that can be very shy, often hiding in trees and foliage.
Resplendent quetzal

Resplendent quetzal

Pharomachrus mocinno

The Resplendent Quetzal is a colorful bird primarily found in the cloud forests of Guatemala and Mexico. It measures about 35 to 40 cm in length, with a wingspan of 50 to 60 cm, and weighs between 200 and 300 g. Its plumage is bright green with a vivid red throat and a long tail composed of elongated feathers. The male is particularly spectacular, with more colorful plumage and a distinctive crest. The Resplendent Quetzal is frugivorous, primarily feeding on fruits, berries, and small insects. It is also an important symbol in Mayan culture, representing freedom and the beauty of nature. Although its population is declining, primarily due to deforestation and poaching, this species remains protected in certain regions.
Resplendent quetzal

Resplendent quetzal

Euptilotis neoxenus

The Resplendent Quetzal is a magnificent bird primarily found in the tropical and subtropical forests of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. It measures about 30 to 40 cm in length, with a wingspan of 50 to 60 cm, and weighs between 100 and 150 g. Its plumage is a vibrant green, with a vivid red throat and a long tail composed of elongated and brilliant feathers. The male is particularly spectacular, with even more colorful plumage and a distinctive crest. The Resplendent Quetzal is primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruits, berries, and small insects. This bird is also an important symbol in the indigenous cultures of the region, representing beauty and freedom. While its population remains relatively stable, this species is still vulnerable due to deforestation and habitat loss.
Quokka

Quokka

Setonix brachyurus

The quokka, or Setonix brachyurus, is a medium-sized marsupial native to Australia, often dubbed "the world's happiest animal" due to its smiling facial expression. It measures about 40 to 54 cm in length with a short tail of 25 to 30 cm. Its fur is brown-grey, dense, and woolly. Quokkas primarily inhabit Rottnest and Bald Islands near Australia's west coast. They are herbivores, feeding on leaves, grasses, and stems. Although mainly nocturnal, they can be active during the day. Quokkas are known for their curious and not very shy behavior towards humans, making them popular with tourists. However, it's important to respect their natural habitat and not feed them.
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.
Red-eyed tree frog

Red-eyed tree frog

Agalychnis callidryas

The Red-eyed Tree Frog is a small arboreal frog primarily found in the humid tropical forests of Central and South America, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama. It measures about 5 to 7 cm in length and weighs between 10 and 20 g. Its body is generally green, with yellow or blue spots on the sides, and its eyes are bright red, making it a particularly recognizable species. The Red-eyed Tree Frog is insectivorous, primarily feeding on flying insects like mosquitoes and flies. It is nocturnal and spends the day hidden in foliage or tree crevices. While its population remains stable in certain protected areas, it is still threatened by deforestation and pollution of its natural habitat.
Spring Peeper

Spring Peeper

Pseudacris crucifer

The Spring Peeper, or Pseudacris crucifer, is a small tree frog native to North America, known for its distinctive call that heralds the arrival of spring. Typically measuring between 2 and 4 cm, it is characterized by a dark X-shaped mark on its back, which gives it its scientific name. It primarily inhabits wetlands, forests, and meadows. Although difficult to spot due to its small size and camouflaging color, its powerful and melodious call is often heard during spring evenings. The Spring Peeper plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by regulating insect populations.
Gliding Tree Frog

Gliding Tree Frog

Agalychnis spurrelli

The Gliding Tree Frog is a medium-sized nocturnal arboreal frog, measuring between 5 and 8 cm. It has bright green dorsal coloration during the day, turning darker at night, with orange or bluish hues on its flanks and limbs. Its large red eyes and webbed feet enable it to "fly" from tree to tree by gliding. This species inhabits humid tropical forests in Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador, between 15 and 750 m elevation. It resides in the canopy and descends to the ground to breed in temporary pools formed by rains. Breeding is explosive, with thousands of individuals gathering in a single night to lay eggs on leaves overhanging water. Tadpoles fall into the water upon hatching. Although listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, this species is locally threatened by deforestation and habitat loss.
Australian Green Tree Frog
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.
Elegant Tree Frog

Elegant Tree Frog

Boana pulchella

The Boana pulchella, commonly known as the Elegant Tree Frog, is a species of amphibian in the Hylidae family. It is primarily found in South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. This frog is recognizable by its smooth skin and vibrant colors, usually green with shades of yellow and brown. It measures about 3 to 5 cm in length. The Boana pulchella is an arboreal species that prefers humid habitats, such as tropical and subtropical forests. It is mainly active at night, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates. Although its conservation status is currently "least concern," it is threatened by the loss of its natural habitat due to deforestation and urbanization.