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.


African Savanna Elephant

African Savanna Elephant

Loxodonta africana

The African Savannah Elephant is the largest land mammal, and the largest of all terrestrial animals. It can stand up to 4 meters tall at the withers and weigh between 4,000 and 7,500 kg. Its coat is gray, with rough skin often covered in dust or mud to protect it from the sun and parasites. The African Savannah Elephant is easily recognizable by its large ears, shaped like the map of Africa, which help regulate its body temperature. This elephant is primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, bark, fruits, and plants. It inhabits savannas, grasslands, and open forests across sub-Saharan Africa. The African Savannah Elephant is a social animal, living in family groups led by an older female. It plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by creating openings in vegetation and dispersing seeds. However, the species is threatened by habitat loss, poaching for its valuable tusks, and conflicts with human communities. The African Savannah Elephant is currently listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Northern elephant seal

Northern elephant seal

Mirounga angustirostris

The northern elephant seal is a large marine pinniped, with adult males measuring 3–4 m in length and weighing 1800–2500 kg, and females reaching 2–2.5 m for 400–900 kg. It inhabits sandy beaches and coastal islands of the North Pacific, alternating long foraging trips at sea feeding on squid and fish with land phases at breeding sites. During the breeding season (December to January), males establish harems, produce deep bellows and engage in spectacular fights for female access, while females dig shallow nests and give birth to a single pup.
Southern elephant seal

Southern elephant seal

Mirounga leonina

Large marine mammal in the family Phocidae, reaching up to 3.5 m in length and 600 kg in weight. It inhabits Antarctic and subantarctic coastal waters, feeding mainly on fish, cephalopods and juvenile seals. During the breeding season, females give birth to a single pup on the ice or beach and nurse it for about three weeks.
Vaquita porpoise

Vaquita porpoise

Phocoena sinus

The vaquita is a small porpoise (1.3–1.5 m, 40–60 kg) endemic to the Upper Gulf of California, with pale grey-blue skin and rounded head. Critically endangered, it uses echolocation to hunt fish and shrimp in turbid, shallow waters (<30 m). Fewer than 10 remain due to bycatch in gillnets and illegal fishing.
Malagasy Civet

Malagasy Civet

Fossa fossana

The Fossa fossana, also known as the Malagasy civet, is a small carnivorous mammal endemic to Madagascar. It is characterized by its grey-brown fur with black spots, which provides excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. Measuring about 50 cm in length, with a tail almost as long as its body, the Malagasy civet is primarily nocturnal. It inhabits the island's humid forests, feeding on small animals, insects, and fruits. Although often confused with the fossa, another Malagasy carnivore, the Malagasy civet belongs to a different family. Its population is threatened by deforestation and hunting, leading to its classification as near threatened by the IUCN.
Pseudo-orca

Pseudo-orca

Pseudorca crassidens

The False killer whale is a large cetacean belonging to the dolphin family, known for its resemblance to the orca. However, unlike the orca, the false killer whale generally lives in warmer waters and is more discreet. It primarily feeds on fish, squid, and small marine mammals. Although its social behavior and ability to hunt in groups are remarkable, the false killer whale is threatened by marine pollution and accidental captures in fishing nets.
Fennec Fox

Fennec Fox

Vulpes zerda

The Fennec is a small fox, easily recognized by its large ears, which can measure up to 15 cm long, nearly a third of its body size. It measures about 24 to 41 cm in length, with a tail measuring 18 to 30 cm, and weighs between 0.8 and 1.5 kg. Its fur is light beige to sandy, allowing it to blend perfectly into its desert environment. The large ears of the Fennec are not only a distinctive feature but also play a crucial role in regulating its body temperature by dissipating excess heat. The Fennec primarily inhabits the deserts and semi-desert regions of North Africa, especially the Sahara. It is a nocturnal animal, hunting primarily at night to avoid the intense heat of the day. Its diet is omnivorous, consisting of small mammals, insects, fruits, and roots. Thanks to its digging skills, it is able to find water beneath the sand, allowing it to survive in an environment where water is scarce. While the Fennec is not currently threatened, it may face risks related to habitat destruction and illegal capture for the pet trade.
Fossa

Fossa

Cryptoprocta ferox

The Fossa is a carnivorous predator endemic to Madagascar, a unique mix between a feline and a mongoose, with a sleek body and a long tail. It is the largest land predator on the island, primarily feeding on lemurs, but also small mammals, birds, and reptiles. The Fossa is particularly agile and capable of climbing, but it often prefers to hunt its prey on the ground. Although secretive and difficult to observe, it plays an important role in the ecosystem of Madagascar. The Fossa is endangered due to the loss of its natural habitat.
Stone Marten

Stone Marten

Martes foina

The Beech Marten is a small carnivorous mammal belonging to the mustelid family. It measures between 40 and 50 cm in length, with a tail that can reach up to 30 cm, and typically weighs between 1.5 and 2 kg. Its fur is dense and smooth, typically brown in color, with a lighter belly and a distinctive white patch on the throat. The Beech Marten is agile and opportunistic, primarily hunting small mammals, birds, eggs, as well as fruits and insects. It is mainly nocturnal and solitary, but can be observed in a wide variety of habitats, including forests, orchards, and even urban areas. It is known for its ability to climb trees and enter attics and lofts of human dwellings. While the Beech Marten is relatively common in Europe, it faces threats related to habitat loss and human activities, such as road traffic and deforestation.
Demidoff's Dwarf Galago

Demidoff's Dwarf Galago

Galagoides demidoff

The Demidoff's dwarf galago, also known as the Demidoff's bushbaby, is a small nocturnal primate native to the tropical forests of Central and West Africa. It is characterized by its diminutive size, measuring about 15 cm in length with a tail nearly as long. Its fur is soft and dense, typically gray-brown, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Its large, round eyes are adapted for night vision, and its mobile ears help detect the slightest sounds. It primarily feeds on insects, fruits, and tree gum. Although mostly solitary, it communicates with its peers through various vocalizations.
Senegal bush baby

Senegal bush baby

Galago moholi

The Senegal bush baby, also known as Galago moholi, is a small nocturnal primate native to the forests and savannas of West Africa, particularly Senegal and Gambia. This primate is easily recognized by its large eyes, pointed ears, and silky fur. It primarily feeds on insects, fruits, and nectar. The Senegal bush baby is an excellent climber and moves quickly from tree to tree using its long legs and prehensile tail. It is a social animal, often living in small groups, and is mainly active at night, using powerful vocalizations to communicate.
Senegal Bushbaby

Senegal Bushbaby

Galago senegalensis

The Senegal Bushbaby, also known as the Senegal Galago, is a small nocturnal primate found primarily in the wooded regions and savannas of West and East Africa. It is easily recognizable by its large, round eyes adapted for night vision and its long hind legs that allow it to leap agilely from tree to tree. Its fur is soft and dense, usually gray or brownish, with a lighter belly. This primate is mainly insectivorous but also feeds on fruits and acacia gum. The galago is a social animal that communicates through high-pitched calls and uses its keen sense of smell to mark its territory.
Gaur

Gaur

Bos gaurus

The Gaur is a large bovine, considered one of the most impressive species of wild cattle. It stands between 1.8 and 2 meters at the withers and can weigh from 500 to 1,000 kg, with males generally being larger and heavier than females. Its coat is dark, typically black or dark brown, with light markings on the legs and a distinctive mane around the neck. The Gaur primarily inhabits dense forests and mountains in South and Southeast Asia, especially in India, Nepal, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Herbivorous, it primarily feeds on grasses, young shoots, leaves, and fruits. The Gaur is a social animal, living in groups, although it is often observed alone or in small groups while foraging. Due to hunting, habitat loss, and conflicts with human populations, the Gaur is listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Mountain gazelle

Mountain gazelle

Gazella gazella

The mountain gazelle, or Gazella gazella, is a graceful herbivorous mammal primarily inhabiting the arid and semi-arid regions of the Middle East. It is distinguished by its light brown coat, paler flanks, and lyre-shaped, ringed horns. Males are generally larger and have longer horns than females. This species is well adapted to its dry environment, capable of surviving with minimal water by extracting necessary moisture from its food. It is mainly active at dusk and dawn, avoiding the extreme daytime temperatures. The mountain gazelle is a social species, living in small groups, but can also be solitary. It is known for its speed and agility, allowing it to escape natural predators.
Goitered gazelle

Goitered gazelle

Gazella subgutturosa

The goitered gazelle, or Gazella subgutturosa, is a species of gazelle known for its enlarged neck, particularly in males. It primarily inhabits the steppes and deserts of Central Asia and the Middle East. This gazelle is well adapted to arid environments and can survive with minimal water, feeding on drought-resistant plants. It is known for its speed and agility, which help it evade natural predators. Males have lyre-shaped horns, while females have smaller horns or none at all. The goitered gazelle is a vulnerable species due to hunting and habitat loss.
Bright’s Gazelle

Bright’s Gazelle

Nanger notatus

The Bright's Gazelle is an elegant, medium-sized antelope, recognizable for its slender proportions and long, thin legs. It stands about 75 cm at the withers and weighs between 30 and 40 kg. Its coat is generally light beige, with darker markings on the flanks and a distinctive black stripe running along its lateral line. Adult males have fine, curved horns, while females generally lack them. The Bright's Gazelle primarily inhabits the savannas and steppes of East Africa, particularly in Ethiopia and Kenya. It is herbivorous, feeding mainly on grasses, leaves, and plants. Like all gazelles, it is fast and agile, capable of running at speeds of up to 80 km/h to escape predators. Although the Bright's Gazelle is not currently endangered, it faces threats related to habitat loss, hunting, and competition with livestock for food resources.
Cuvier's Gazelle

Cuvier's Gazelle

Gazella cuvieri

The Cuvier's gazelle is a species of gazelle native to North Africa, mainly found in Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco. It is characterized by its medium size, lyre-shaped horns, and light brown coat with white markings on the belly and legs. Adapted to arid environments, it inhabits steppes, mountains, and semi-desert areas. It is herbivorous, feeding mainly on grasses and leaves. The Cuvier's gazelle is an endangered species, primarily due to excessive hunting and habitat loss. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this iconic species of North African wildlife.
Grant’s Gazelle

Grant’s Gazelle

Nanger granti

The Grant's Gazelle is an elegant, medium-sized antelope, easily recognizable by its long legs and generally sandy-colored coat with distinctive markings. It stands about 75 cm at the withers and weighs between 40 and 60 kg. The coat of the Grant's Gazelle is primarily beige with darker vertical stripes along the flanks and a black stripe running across its back. Adult males have long, slightly curved horns in the shape of a lyre, while females generally lack them. This gazelle primarily inhabits savannas, grasslands, and wooded areas in East Africa, particularly in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Herbivorous, it primarily feeds on herbaceous plants, leaves, fruits, and bark. Very fast and agile, the Grant's Gazelle can reach speeds of up to 80 km/h, allowing it to escape many predators. Although the species is not endangered, it faces threats such as habitat loss, hunting, and competition with livestock for food resources.
Thomson’s Gazelle

Thomson’s Gazelle

Eudorcas thomsonii

The Thomson's Gazelle is a small, elegant gazelle known for its speed and grace. It stands about 60 cm at the withers, with a body length of 90 cm, and weighs between 20 and 30 kg. Its coat is mainly beige, with distinct white markings on its belly and a black stripe running along each side of its body. The adult male has curved lyre-shaped horns, while females generally lack them. The Thomson's Gazelle primarily inhabits the savannas and grasslands of East Africa, particularly in Tanzania and Kenya. It is herbivorous, feeding mainly on grasses, young shoots, and leaves. Very fast, the Thomson's Gazelle can reach speeds of 80 to 90 km/h, allowing it to escape many predators. Although it is currently relatively common, the Thomson's Gazelle faces threats related to habitat loss and human activities, including hunting and competition with livestock.
Dorcas gazelle

Dorcas gazelle

Gazella dorcas

The Dorcas gazelle is a small, graceful antelope well adapted to the arid environments of the Sahara and surrounding regions. It is distinguished by its light beige coat, which allows it to blend into the desert, and its elegantly curved horns. Standing about 55 to 65 cm at the shoulder and weighing between 15 and 20 kg, it is agile and fast, capable of running at high speeds to escape predators. Its diet mainly consists of leaves, flowers, and fruits, enabling it to survive in areas where water is scarce. The Dorcas gazelle is a symbol of grace and resilience in extreme conditions.
Gemsbok

Gemsbok

Oryx gazella

The Gemsbok 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 Gemsbok 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 Gemsbok 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.
Common genets

Common genets

Genetta genetta

The Common Genet is a small, agile, and elegant carnivore, easily recognizable by its long and slender body, as well as its characteristic spots. It measures between 45 and 60 cm in length, with a tail measuring 40 to 50 cm, and typically weighs between 1.5 and 2.5 kg. Its coat is usually light gray or brown, speckled with dark spots that form a distinctive pattern on its back and flanks. The Common Genet has a bushy tail and a body shape that allows it to easily climb trees and slip into narrow spaces. It primarily inhabits forests, woodlands, and wooded areas in North and South Africa, as well as the Iberian Peninsula. This carnivore is omnivorous, feeding mainly on small mammals, birds, insects, fruits, and berries. The Common Genet is also an excellent climber, often seen moving through trees in search of food or to escape danger. While the Genet is not currently threatened, it faces threats related to habitat loss and human persecution.
Gerenuk

Gerenuk

Litocranius walleri

The Gerenuk is a unique species of antelope from East Africa, recognizable by its long neck and graceful posture. It lives in savannas and semi-deserts, where it primarily feeds on shrubs and tree leaves. The Gerenuk is an excellent climber, capable of standing on its hind legs to reach high vegetation. This ability allows it to feed efficiently and avoid competition with other ground-dwelling herbivores. Although relatively discreet, the Gerenuk is threatened by habitat loss and poaching.
Gibbon

Gibbon

Hylobatidae

Gibbons, members of the Hylobatidae family, are primates particularly known for their agility and their ability to move through the canopy. They are the smallest of the great apes, measuring between 40 and 70 cm in height, with long, powerful arms that can reach up to 2.5 times the length of their body. Their weight typically ranges from 5 to 15 kg, depending on the species. Gibbons are primarily known for their mode of locomotion called "brachiation," where they move by swinging from branch to branch at impressive speeds, often at high altitudes. Their fur is typically dense, varying in color from black to light brown, and some species have distinct facial markings. Gibbons primarily inhabit the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, where they feed mainly on fruits, leaves, and small insects. These primates are social and typically live in small family groups. While gibbons are not all at immediate risk, several species are endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and the illegal wildlife trade.
Nubian Giraffe

Nubian Giraffe

Giraffa camelopardalis

The Northern Giraffe is a subspecies of giraffe, characterized by its slender body and long neck. It stands about 4.5 to 5.5 meters tall, with males being larger and bulkier than females. Northern giraffes weigh between 800 and 1,200 kg. Their coat is light beige with irregular patches of brown or orange, which are smaller and more closely spaced than those of other giraffe subspecies. These patches are outlined in white, creating a distinctive pattern. The Northern Giraffe primarily inhabits the savannas and open woodlands of northern Kenya, particularly in the Samburu National Reserve and surrounding areas. Herbivorous, it feeds mainly on acacia leaves and other tall vegetation, which it reaches with its long neck and prehensile tongue. The Northern Giraffe is an endangered species, due to habitat loss and human conflicts, including poaching and encroachment on its land.
Southern Giraffe

Southern Giraffe

Girafe giraffa

The Southern Giraffe is a subspecies of giraffe, characterized by its slender body, long neck, and robust legs. It typically stands between 4.3 and 4.8 meters tall, with males being larger and heavier than females, weighing between 800 and 1,200 kg. Its coat is light brown to beige, with irregular darker patches that are bordered by white. The patches of the Southern Giraffe are larger and more spaced out than those of other subspecies, giving it a distinctive pattern. It primarily inhabits the savannas and woodlands of southern Africa, notably in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Herbivorous, it feeds primarily on acacia leaves, berries, and fruits, which it reaches with its long neck and prehensile tongue. While the species is currently less threatened than other giraffe subspecies, the Southern Giraffe faces risks related to habitat loss and population fragmentation.
Masai Giraffe

Masai Giraffe

Giraffa tippelskirchi

The Maasai Giraffe is a subspecies of giraffe, easily recognized by its irregular and jagged patches, which differ from those of other subspecies. It typically stands between 4.3 and 4.8 meters tall, with males being larger and heavier than females, weighing between 800 and 1,200 kg. Its coat is light beige to light brown, with irregularly shaped leaf-like patches that are bordered in white. These patches are smaller and more scattered than those of the Southern Giraffe. The Maasai Giraffe primarily inhabits the savannas and grasslands of East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. It is herbivorous, feeding mainly on acacia leaves and other tall vegetation, which it reaches with its long neck and prehensile tongue. Although the Maasai Giraffe is currently considered less threatened than other giraffe subspecies, it faces threats such as habitat loss and poaching.
Reticulated giraffe

Reticulated giraffe

Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata

The reticulated giraffe, or Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata, is a subspecies of giraffe known for its distinctive coat pattern of large polygonal patches separated by white lines. It is primarily found in northeastern Kenya, southern Ethiopia, and Somalia. Reticulated giraffes live in loose social groups and primarily feed on acacia leaves, which they reach with their long necks. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by promoting tree growth and seed dispersal. Although majestic, they are vulnerable due to habitat loss and poaching. Their population is declining, leading to their classification as a vulnerable species by the IUCN.
Long-finned pilot whale

Long-finned pilot whale

Globicephala melas

The long-finned pilot whale is a large oceanic dolphin in the family Delphinidae, measuring 5–6 m in length and weighing up to 1 200 kg. It has a robust black body, bulbous head, and long pectoral fins. It inhabits temperate to subantarctic waters, feeding mainly on squid and fish, and forms matrilineal social pods.
Wolverine

Wolverine

Gulo gulo

The Wolverine is a robust and solitary carnivore, often compared to a small bear due to its size and strength. It measures about 65 to 87 cm in length, with a tail measuring 30 to 40 cm, and weighs between 10 and 30 kg. Its fur is typically dark brown, with lighter markings on the legs and throat, forming a distinctive "mask" around its face. The Wolverine has powerful musculature, allowing it to capture prey much larger than itself, such as deer or reindeer, although it primarily feeds on small mammals, insects, and carcasses. It is an opportunist, capable of stealing food from other predators such as wolves or bears. The Wolverine primarily inhabits the northern forests of Asia and North America, including Scandinavia, Russia, Canada, and Alaska. It is an excellent climber and swimmer, well-adapted to cold, snowy environments. Although its population remains relatively stable in some areas, the Wolverine faces threats related to habitat loss, climate change, and human persecution.