Facts about animals
Discover amazing facts about animals: explore unique traits, behaviors, habitats, and survival instincts. Unveil nature's diversity with expert-driven insights.
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The southern cassowary (Casuarius casuarius) is considered the most dangerous bird in the world due to both its physical characteristics and its temperament. It is a large bird with long sharp claws at the end of very powerful legs. Other birds may also have similar characteristics, but the cassowary...
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Yes, flamingos do fly. We may most associated them with standing in one place and doing so on one leg, but these birds have the ability of flight. Not only can flamingos fly, they are excellent fliers. As migratory birds, flamingos need to fly very long distances in search of food and a suitable place to reproduce....
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Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are the world's largest rodents and inhabit the wetlands of South America. They live in gregarious groups, are herbivores, and are adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle. They are also just about one of the cutest animals on the planet. Popular across social media, they...
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When we look at cows grazing peacefully in fields, most of us see simple farm animals. But beneath their calm exterior lies a world of surprising intelligence, complex social lives, and sensory abilities that science is only beginning to fully understand. Far from being the docile, unaware creatures they're...
Octopuses are some of the most mysterious and intelligent creatures in the ocean. These eight-armed inhabitants of the deep are far more than just unusual-looking sea dwellers. With three hearts pumping blue blood through their bodies, a brain that extends into their limbs, and the ability to transform...
The platypus is one of nature’s most fascinating creatures, but did you know that this unique animal is also venomous? While most people associate venom with snakes and spiders, the male platypus carries a surprising defense mechanism—sharp spurs on its hind legs that can inject venom. But how dangerous is...
Most duck species can fly, although there are notable exceptions in both wild duck species and domestic duck breeds. Even among those able to fly, their ability can vary according to their needs. Not all flying ducks are migratory, so they may have less need to fly high or over long distances. Those that...
There are around 1,565,855 species of animals in the world, distributed among animal types such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, corals, crustaceans and others. It is impossible to produce an exact number of the total animal species. This is due to both the limitations of studying animal...
We all know feathers are essential for a bird's ability to fly, but their importance goes far beyond just taking to the skies. These structures, which are lightweight yet highly intricate, carry out a remarkable array of essential tasks that aid in the survival and welfare of birds through various and enchanting...
Known for their long necks, giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) also possess an equally amazing adaptation: their tongues. At 53 cm (20.8 inches) long and distinctively two-toned, these specialized organs are crucial for survival in the African savanna. Millions of years of evolutionary refinement are reflected...
The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is one of four extant lynx species from the genus Lynx. Native to the Iberian Peninsula of Spain and Portugal, the Iberian lynx is one of the few apex predators left in the region. While numbers have been decimated over the years for various reasons, there in an encouraging...
When you think of sharks, the image of a fearsome predator with rows of razor-sharp teeth might spring to mind. But these apex predators have dominated the oceans for over 400 million years, long before dinosaurs roamed the Earth. And the truth is, sharks are far more than Hollywood villains. In fact,...
Bonobos (Pan paniscus) and chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) are part of the same genus, Pan, and share 98.7% of their DNA. They also share over 98% of their DNA with humans. Although they split from a common ancestor about 1.7 million years ago, they have developed clear differences in their appearance,...
Both terrestrial mammals with similar markings, raccoons and badgers have certain differences with which we can easily distinguish them. These differences can be seen in their physical appearance, but also in factors such as habitat and behavior. For example, raccoons have black markings around their eyes,...
The ferret and the possum are different species, but they share similarities which mean some of us may confuse one for the other. They are both mammals that have slender bodies and narrowed faces. Their markings will depend on species, but they can both have dark and light patches on different parts of...
Myrmecophagous animals are those which eat ants or termites, especially if these insects constitute the majority of their diet. This can be used to contrast with insectivores which eat different kinds of insects in a more generalized way. Some insectivores may carry out myrmecophagy opportunistically,...
World Animal Day is celebrated on the 4th October every year. It is an event in honor of both the wild animals which are so essential to our global ecosystems, as well as the companion and working animals with which we share our lives. Not only is it designed to celebrate the beauty of these animals,...
A turtle is known for its shell, from which its body emerges. Despite this hard carapace which it used for shelter and protection, the turtle anatomy include the body parts we expect from most reptiles. These include a head, legs and a tail. While all turtles will have the same basic body parts, some...
Camels and dromedaries are often confused for one another, but these two animals, while closely related, have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Both are well-adapted to harsh desert environments, yet their physical differences, habitats, and uses throughout history are unique. Understanding...
At first glance, damselflies and dragonflies seem to be very similar insects. While both are part of the order Odonata, they have some key differences. Such differences between dragonflies and damselflies can be seen in their wings, flight ability, body type and behaviors. While it may be difficult to distinguish...
Dolphins are carnivorous marine mammals. While they mainly feed on cephalopods and fish, some are known to kill other mammals. They can sometimes even kill large animals such as porpoises or even other dolphins, despite not feeding upon them. Many tours offer experiences where you can swim with certain species...
Cicadas make noise primarily for communication between males and females. During mating season, cicada need to alert each other that they are ready for reproduction. They may make this noise by contracting and relaxing muscles in a very rapid manner. While it sounds like clicking or chirruping, this distinctive...
Among the differences between the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and the bison (Bison sp.), greatly different geographic populations and habitat preferences stand out as some of the most significant. Other differences include the length of horn, density of fur and many others. thedailyECO provides a guide...
Snake anatomy is unique among reptiles. Most notably, they have a complete lack of limbs and a very elongated body which can be many feet in length. They also have specialized sensory organs, lidless eyes and other features, some of which are not common to all snakes. For example, some snake species...
Crabs are invertebrate animals. Despite having a shell which acts as an exoskeleton, they do not have the definitive spinal columns which determine whether an animal is vertebrate or invertebrate. A lack of backbone is common to all crustacean species, not only crabs. While muscles are attached to bones in...
An octopus is a type of mollusk, a category of animals that also includes snails and clams. Despite being taxonomically very similar, they share certain key differences. For example, octopuses don't have shells and snails don't have eight arms. The anatomy of an octopus is very particular. Their head makes...
When asking whether geckos are poisonous, they are more likely wondering whether they are venomous. Geckos are a wide-ranging group of reptiles in the infraorder Gekkota. Many reptile species are considered highly venomous, meaning they have the ability to inject toxins into potential prey, usually for...
Snails are gastropod mollusks which can be terrestrial or aquatic. The latter can live in both freshwater or marine environments. When we look at the anatomy of a snail, we see their hard shell with which they are associated. Except for the shell, we may also be aware that they are soft and squidgy invertebrates,...
Also known as the Mediterranean jellyfish, the friend egg jellyfish (Cotylorhiza tuberculata) is the medusa stage of a sea jelly which lives mainly in European waters. Its common name is thanks to its distinctive shape and coloring, giving it the appearance of a fried chicken egg. The umbrella or bell...
Like worms, snakes move in a sidewinding or reticular motion that allow them to traverse the ground without limbs. Worms are invertebrates which mean they lack a backbone by definition. Despite snakes often appearing like large worms, they are a very different animal. In fact, they are vertebrates because...
Everywhere you look, from bustling city sidewalks to the deepest jungles, ants crawl and conquer. These ubiquitous social insects have carved a niche in nearly every ecosystem on Earth. But beneath their seemingly familiar exterior lies a surprising truth: ants don't see the world in the same way we do....
Wasps are a diverse group of insects, often overshadowed by their more celebrated cousin, the honeybee. However, these fascinating creatures are ecological powerhouses, playing crucial roles in both natural ecosystems and even benefiting some human activities. While their stings and territorial behavior...
Bats are very diverse in terms of physical characteristics and behaviors. For example, some eat fruit, others famously eat blood. Size is a great differentiator in types of bat species. The largest bat in the world can be up to 5.6 ft long, while the smallest is under 6 inches. Although many people...
World Otter Day takes place on Wednesday, 29th May 2024. This date has been celebrated since 2014 and arose as an initiative of the International Otter Survival Fund. The aim of this international day of otters is to raise awareness about otters in general, but also to help ensure their conservation. Sensitizing...
Turtles, also known as testudines, are reptiles instantly recognizable by their unique protective shells. Over 350 species roam the Earth, making them a diverse and widespread group. These incredible creatures can be found on most continents (excluding Antarctica), inhabiting a variety of environments – both...
Lynxes are a type of large cat which collectively make up the genus Lynx. While not as big as some other wild felids, they are important carnivorous animals in their ecosystem which help to regulate the food web due to their status as apex predators. Each of the members of the genus have various similarities,...
Chameleons are captivating reptiles renowned for their ability to shift colors seemingly at will. From vibrant greens that mimic rainforest foliage to fiery oranges that stand out on sun-drenched branches. But what drives this remarkable adaptation? The answer lies within a fascinating biological innovation:...
In the wild world, survival hinges on a delicate balance of power. Predators rely on weapons honed by evolution, and few are more crucial than a powerful bite. But who packs the most punishing chomp? This isn't just about razor-sharp teeth. We'll delve into the science behind jaw strength, skull structure,...
If I was to describe an animal with webbed feet, a beak and the ability to lay eggs, you would be forgiven for assuming I was talking about a bird. Oddly enough, this description also fits the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), the only animal in its genus. It is a fascinating creature which has befuddled...
The Kung Fu Panda franchise has captivated audiences of all ages with its blend of action, humor, and heart. Spanning four films (and potentially more!), the saga takes place in the idyllic Valley of Peace, a place inspired by Ancient China but inhabited by a most unusual cast – animals who are masters of...
The origin of birds has been one of the most controversial topics in evolutionary biology. There have been several proposed theories about their origin which has led changing taxonomy over the years. Just as the animals themselves have evolved, so has our understanding of them. It is notoriously difficult...
The classification of the octopus within the realm of mollusks has long sparked debate among scientists. Traditionally, octopuses have been grouped alongside their shelled relatives like snails and clams, owing to shared characteristics such as a soft body, bilateral symmetry, and a mantle. However,...
Zebras, iconic inhabitants of the African savanna, are immediately distinguishable by their mesmerizing black and white stripes. Beyond their aesthetic charm, zebra stripes play pivotal roles in their survival, contributing to camouflage, social communication, and protection against parasites. While the...
The anatomy of the ant is structured in such a way as to make them one of the most industrious creatures in nature. Famous for their ability to carry weights much greater than their own, ants have many specialized body parts which allow them to carry out various roles and functions within the ant colony....
Ever wondered how some animals navigate and hunt in the dark with seemingly superhuman precision? The answer lies in a remarkable adaptation called echolocation, a biological sonar that allows them to "see" with sound. From the fluttering wings of a bat to the graceful glide of a dolphin, echolocation...
Did you know that some mammals can fly? Unlike most mammals, which live on land, these flying mammals have unique body parts that help them move through the air. Bats are the most well-known flying mammals, but there are other kinds, like flying squirrels and colugos. Furthermore, these flying mammals...
In the realm of Disney's animated classics, few duos have captured the hearts of audiences quite like Timon and Pumbaa, the inseparable pair from "The Lion King." Their significance in popular culture extends beyond mere entertainment; they embody a philosophy of carefree living and a celebration of...
The question of whether animals feel pain has long intrigued scientists and philosophers. While a conclusive answer remains elusive, research indicates that animals, ranging from insects to mammals, do indeed experience pain similarly to humans. They possess nociceptors—specialized sensory neurons responsible...
Butterflies and moths are among the most cherished and recognizable insects globally. Their vibrant wings and graceful flight patterns bring joy to many. However, while these two insect groups belong to the order Lepidoptera, encompassing over 180,000 described species, they exhibit distinguishing features...
Whales and dolphins beaching themselves is a mysterious and upsetting event that has been studied by scientists, conservationists, and the public for many years. These amazing marine animals, known for their grace and ability to live in the ocean, sometimes do something that goes against their nature: they...