Cuvier's beaked whale, also known as the Cuvier's whale, is a deep-diving cetacean found primarily in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide. It is easily recognized by its elongated head and prominent beak. This cetacean is one of the deepest diving whales, capable of descending more than 2000 meters in search of food. Its diet primarily consists of squid and deep-sea fish. Although it is a difficult animal to observe due to its deep habitat, it is sometimes seen at the surface to breathe. Cuvier's beaked whale is known for its long dives and mysterious behaviors.
The African Buffalo is one of the largest and most powerful herbivorous mammals on the African continent, easily recognizable by its massive body, impressive horns, and dark coat. It primarily inhabits the savannas, grasslands, and open forests of sub-Saharan Africa. This social animal moves in large herds, sometimes composed of hundreds of individuals, which offer protection from predators through the collective strength of the group.
The African Buffalo is a strict herbivore, feeding mainly on grasses and woody vegetation. Although it has a rather calm temperament, it can become extremely aggressive when threatened, and its physical strength makes it a formidable opponent for predators. Despite being a secondary predator, it is vulnerable due to hunting and habitat loss, although conservation efforts have helped stabilize some populations.
The Capybara is the largest rodent in the world, easily recognizable by its massive body and short, light brown fur. This semi-aquatic mammal primarily inhabits wetland areas of South America, near rivers, lakes, and swamps. The Capybara is an excellent swimmer and spends much of its time in the water, where it feeds mainly on aquatic grasses, plants, and fallen fruits.
Naturally social, the Capybara lives in large groups of 10 to 20 individuals, often organized around a social hierarchy. The groups spend a lot of time grooming each other and protecting each other from predators. Although it is a calm and docile animal, the Capybara is threatened by the loss of its natural habitat due to urbanization and pollution of rivers. However, its population remains relatively stable, and it is often seen in protected areas.
The Caracal is an elegant feline, easily recognizable by its pointed ears adorned with tufts of black fur. It has a short tawny coat that allows it to blend into the dry, rocky environments where it lives, primarily in savannas, steppes, and semi-desert areas in Africa and Western Asia. This agile and fast predator primarily hunts birds, small mammals, and reptiles, often catching prey by leaping great heights to snatch them in mid-air.
The Caracal is a solitary and territorial hunter. It uses its long back legs to make impressive jumps, capable of reaching up to three meters high. While the species is relatively widespread, it faces threats due to habitat loss and poaching. The Caracal is protected in several regions, and its population is monitored.
The axis deer is a cervid native to the Indian subcontinent, recognized for its characteristic spotted coat. It primarily inhabits forests and open grasslands, where it feeds on leaves, fruits, and grasses. This social animal forms herds and is often seen grazing or resting in wooded areas. Although not threatened, it faces dangers from habitat loss and illegal hunting.
The Kashmir Stag, also known as the Hangul, is a majestic species primarily found in the mountains of the Himalayas and Kashmir. This deer is easily recognizable by its dense, woolly coat, which helps it withstand the cold temperatures of high altitudes. It has impressive antlers, which can grow to a considerable size in adult males. The females, on the other hand, are generally smaller and do not have antlers.
This deer inhabits high-altitude forests, alpine meadows, and mountainous regions covered in snow. It feeds primarily on herbaceous vegetation, foliage, and young shoots. The Kashmir Stag is a relatively shy and discreet animal, often living in small groups or family units. While its population remains relatively stable, it faces threats such as habitat loss due to deforestation and poaching, especially for its antlers.
The Chimpanzee is one of humans' closest relatives, sharing about 98% of its DNA with humans. This large primate is easily recognizable by its expressive face, dark or brown skin, and sharp eyes. It has a powerful body, although it is smaller and less robust than other large primates like the gorilla. The Chimpanzee primarily inhabits tropical forests and savannas in West and Central Africa, where it forms complex social groups, called communities, which can include several dozen individuals.
An omnivore, the Chimpanzee feeds on a wide range of foods, including fruits, leaves, insects, and sometimes meat. It is also known for its use of tools, such as sticks to extract termites or stones to crack nuts. This primate has exceptional intelligence, capable of solving complex problems, communicating in sophisticated ways, and adopting cultural behaviors. However, it is threatened by deforestation, poaching, and habitat loss, leading to a decline in its wild populations. The chimpanzee is classified as an endangered species.
The Coati is a mammal belonging to the raccoon family, easily recognized by its long ringed tail and elongated snout shaped like a trunk. Its fur is typically light brown to reddish-brown, with darker markings on the face and back. This small carnivore is known for its great agility, especially in trees where it moves with ease in search of food. It primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical forests in Central and South America.
The Coati is omnivorous and feeds on a wide variety of foods, including fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and eggs. It is often seen in family groups, especially females, while adult males tend to live alone. Although the Coati is a relatively adaptable animal, it is threatened by deforestation, hunting, and habitat loss. It plays an important role in seed dispersal and regulating populations of insects and small animals.
The Colugo, also known as the flying lemur, is a small tree-dwelling mammal native to Southeast Asia. While not a true lemur, it is often called so due to its gliding abilities, which it performs using a thin membrane of skin that connects its limbs to its body. This gliding allows it to move efficiently from tree to tree in search of food, primarily consisting of leaves, fruits, and flowers. The Colugo is a nocturnal and rather discreet animal, using its dense fur and camouflage to blend into the forest environment.
The Coyote is a medium-sized canine, very similar to the wolf but smaller and more agile. Its fur varies from gray to light brown, with a face often marked by black traits, a white chest and belly, and dark legs. The Coyote is easily recognizable by its pointed muzzle, relatively large ears, and bushy tail. It typically stands between 60 and 80 cm at the shoulder, with a total length of 75 to 90 cm for the body, excluding the tail.
This canine is an opportunistic feeder, primarily hunting small mammals such as rodents, rabbits, and sometimes birds, but it can also eat fruits and carrion. Highly adaptable, the Coyote inhabits a wide variety of environments, ranging from prairies and deserts to urban areas, and it is particularly active at dusk and during the night. Unlike other predators, the Coyote often hunts alone or in small groups. Although its population is stable across much of its range, it is sometimes seen as a nuisance in certain areas and faces threats from hunting and habitat loss.
The Common Dolphin is a medium-sized cetacean, easily recognizable by its streamlined body and distinctive beak. It typically measures between 2 and 2.5 meters in length and weighs between 100 and 150 kg. This dolphin is widely distributed in temperate and tropical waters, particularly in the Mediterranean, the Atlantic, and the seas around Asia. The Common Dolphin primarily feeds on fish, cephalopods, and sometimes small crustaceans, hunting in highly coordinated groups. Its social structure is complex, with groups ranging from a few individuals to several hundred, depending on environmental conditions and the availability of food resources. It is also known for its acrobatic behaviors, such as jumping and group play, and is often seen following boats. While this species is not currently endangered, it faces threats from pollution, disturbances caused by human activities at sea, and bycatch in fishing nets.
The Common Eland is a large herbivorous ungulate, belonging to the bovidae family, and one of the largest species of antelope. It can stand up to 1.5 meters tall at the withers and weigh between 400 and 900 kg, with males generally being larger than females. Its coat is usually light brown or gray, with lighter vertical stripes on the flanks. The Common Eland has large, spiral horns that can reach up to 80 cm in males. It primarily inhabits savannas and grasslands in sub-Saharan Africa, where it feeds mainly on grasses, leaves, and bushes. It is a social animal, living in large groups, especially during the breeding season. While the Common Eland is currently listed as of least concern, it faces threats such as habitat loss, hunting, and competition with livestock for food resources.
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.
The Cheetah is a large feline known for its exceptional speed, making it the fastest land mammal. It measures about 1.1 to 1.5 meters in length, with a shoulder height of around 75 cm, and weighs between 40 and 65 kg. Its coat is short, golden to light brown with distinct black spots, allowing it to blend effectively in the savannas. It has a round head with large nostrils, sharp eyes, and distinctive black tear marks on its cheeks, which help it focus its vision while hunting. The Cheetah primarily inhabits sub-Saharan Africa, with small populations in Iran, in open habitats such as savannas, grasslands, and deserts. Carnivorous, it mainly feeds on gazelles, springboks, and other small animals. Unlike other large cats, the Cheetah hunts using speed rather than brute strength. It can reach speeds of 100 to 110 km/h in a few seconds, but this speed can only be maintained for short distances. Although the Cheetah is not critically endangered, it faces threats like habitat loss, poaching, and reduced natural prey.
The Common Hippopotamus is a large semi-aquatic mammal, easily recognizable by its massive body and thick skin. It measures between 3.3 and 4.5 meters in length, with a weight reaching 1,500 to 1,800 kg, or more. Its body is primarily gray, with pink skin underneath the belly and ears and eyes positioned high on its head, allowing it to see and hear while submerged in water. Hippos are primarily herbivores, feeding on grass and aquatic vegetation in large quantities, mostly at night. They spend most of their time in the water to regulate their body temperature and prevent dehydration, while still being able to move quickly on land. The Common Hippopotamus primarily inhabits sub-Saharan Africa, in rivers, lakes, and swamps. Although it is a powerful and territorial animal, it is threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and conflicts with human populations.
The Cavendish Dik-dik is a small antelope found mainly in the semi-arid zones and savannas of East Africa. It stands about 40 cm tall at the shoulder, with a body length of 60 to 70 cm, and weighs between 3 and 6 kg. This small herbivore is easily recognized by its compact size, sharp muzzle, and bright eyes. Its coat is typically gray-brown, with lighter shades on the belly and distinct markings around the eyes, giving it an alert expression. The Cavendish Dik-dik is a discreet animal, often seen alone or in small family groups, preferring to avoid large human concentrations. It primarily feeds on herbaceous plants, fruits, seeds, and leaves. Its small size allows it to slip easily through bushes and tall grasses to escape predators. While the species is not currently endangered, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and pressures from human activities.
The Cape Hare is a large herbivorous mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa, particularly found in open areas, savannas, and semi-arid regions. It measures between 50 and 70 cm in length, with a tail of 10 to 12 cm, and weighs between 2 and 4 kg. Its coat is generally light brown or gray with a lighter belly, allowing it to blend effectively into its environment. The Cape Hare is a nocturnal and crepuscular animal, primarily feeding on plants, grasses, fruits, and roots. While it is a fast runner, reaching speeds of 50 to 60 km/h, it prefers discretion and often remains hidden during the day in bushes or tall grasses. This hare is also known for its ability to remain motionless and quickly adapt to its surroundings, making it difficult for predators to spot. While the species is relatively common, it can be threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
The Canada Lynx is a medium-sized cat characterized by its thick paws and large pointed ears adorned with black tufts of fur. It measures about 80 to 105 cm in length, with a short tail of about 10 to 15 cm, and weighs between 8 and 14 kg. Its coat is generally light gray to reddish-brown, with darker spots on the flanks and a lighter underside. The Canada Lynx primarily inhabits the boreal forests of North America, particularly in Canada and northern parts of the United States. It primarily feeds on hares, particularly the Snowshoe Hare, but may also hunt small mammals, birds, and fish. This solitary predator is known for its great stealth and ability to blend into its snowy environment. While the species remains relatively stable, it faces threats such as habitat loss, competition with other predators, and the impacts of climate change.
The Common Porpoise is a small cetacean from the Phocoenidae family, found primarily in the temperate and cold waters of the North Atlantic and the North Sea, although its range also extends to certain parts of the Baltic Sea. It typically measures between 1.3 and 2 meters in length and weighs between 40 and 65 kg. Its coat is dark on the back and light on the belly, and it has a small dorsal fin located near the back. The Common Porpoise has a rounded snout and is easily recognizable by its small, rounded pectoral fins. It primarily feeds on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods, hunting using echolocation to locate prey in the water. Although it is often seen in small groups, it generally prefers to swim alone or in small family units. While the species is classified as of least concern, it faces threats such as pollution, accidental bycatch in fishing nets, and disturbances caused by maritime traffic.
The Corsican Mouflon is a subspecies of the Mouflon, native to the island of Corsica, where it primarily inhabits mountains and rocky areas. It measures about 70 cm in height at the withers and weighs between 40 and 70 kg. What distinguishes the Corsican Mouflon are its horns, which are particularly large and spirally curved in males, while females have smaller horns. Its coat is generally reddish-brown with lighter shades on the belly and a darker mane along the back. The Corsican Mouflon is an agile animal and an excellent climber, capable of moving easily through the steep and rocky terrain of its natural habitat. It feeds primarily on grasses, shrubs, leaves, and roots. While its population remains relatively stable on the island, it faces threats related to habitat loss and hunting. These animals are solitary or live in small groups, primarily during the breeding season.
The Small-scaled Pangolin is an insectivorous mammal found primarily in Central and West Africa, notably in Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo. It measures about 50 to 80 cm in length, with a tail that can reach half its body size, and weighs between 5 and 7 kg. Its body is covered with small, hard scales made of keratin, which protect it from predators. When threatened, the Pangolin curls into a ball, exposing only its scales. It primarily feeds on ants, termites, and larvae, which it captures with its long tongue. Although the Pangolin is an excellent burrower, it is vulnerable due to intensive poaching for its scales and habitat loss. It is currently listed as "vulnerable" by the IUCN.
The Chinese pangolin is a small insectivorous mammal known for its body covered with scale-like plates. Native to China and Southeast Asia, it primarily feeds on ants and termites, which it digs up using its powerful claws. It is an excellent climber, often observed in trees where it seeks shelter from predators. Due to illegal hunting and habitat loss, the Chinese pangolin is critically endangered.
The Clouded Leopard is a medium-sized cat primarily found in the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia, notably in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It measures between 50 and 75 cm in length, with a tail ranging from 60 to 90 cm, and weighs between 12 and 20 kg. Its coat is characterized by spots and rosette patterns that help it blend perfectly into the dense vegetation of its habitat. The Clouded Leopard is an excellent climber and spends much of its time in trees, hunting birds, squirrels, monkeys, and small deer. Although the Clouded Leopard's population remains relatively stable, it is threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and forest fragmentation. This species is currently listed as "vulnerable" by the IUCN.
The Common Warthog is a wild mammal native to Sub-Saharan Africa. It measures about 1.2 to 1.5 meters in length, with a shoulder height of 60 to 80 cm, and weighs between 50 and 150 kg. It is easily recognizable by its broad face and large curved tusks, which serve as both a defense mechanism and a tool for digging. Its fur is generally gray or light brown, and it has thick, rough skin. The Common Warthog primarily lives in savannas, grasslands, and open forests, where it feeds mainly on roots, fruits, insects, and small animals. It is a social animal, living in groups, and is mainly nocturnal. Although the Common Warthog is widespread and its population is stable, it is sometimes affected by hunting and habitat loss.
The Crestless Porcupine is a large nocturnal mammal primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa, in tropical forests and savannas. It measures between 60 and 80 cm in length, with a tail of 20 to 30 cm, and weighs between 15 and 30 kg. Its fur is primarily made up of rigid, long, sharp quills covering its back, sides, and tail. At the tip of its tail, it has modified quills that produce a distinctive sound when shaken, warning predators of its presence. The Crestless Porcupine is herbivorous and primarily feeds on roots, bark, fruits, and leaves. While its population remains relatively stable, it can be threatened by habitat destruction and hunting.
The Magellanic Fox is a small carnivore primarily found in the cold and coastal regions of Argentina and Chile, particularly in the Patagonian region. It measures about 60 to 70 cm in length, with a tail of 30 to 35 cm, and weighs between 3 and 5 kg. Its fur is generally gray, with lighter underparts and brown or reddish patches on its back and legs. This fox is omnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, insects, but also fruits and plants. It is mainly active during dusk and night, and usually lives alone or in small family groups. While its population remains relatively stable, this species can be threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
The Common Wombat is a terrestrial marsupial found primarily in Australia, notably in temperate forests and grasslands. It typically measures between 1 and 1.2 meters in length and weighs between 20 and 35 kg. Its fur is generally thick, ranging from brown to gray, and it has a broad head and a short tail. The Common Wombat is herbivorous, feeding primarily on roots, bark, and herbaceous plants. It is nocturnal and spends most of the day in burrows that it digs itself. While its population remains relatively stable, it is sometimes threatened by habitat loss due to urbanization and changes in agriculture.