Animal fun facts

Howler monkeys, belonging to the genus Alouatta, are a group of New World monkeys native to Central and South America. Renowned for their incredibly loud howls, which can be heard over long distances, these vocalizations play a crucial role in marking territory and communicating within their groups. Currently,...

Understanding how cats perceive humans has been an aim of feline ethologists for many years. While biological research has helped us to understand the physical perception of cats, our knowledge of how cats see us emotionally is impeded by the limitations of interspecies communication. Put simply, we cannot...

If you look at a cat tongue up close, you will see there are tiny little white hooks covering its surface. Although we expect the tongues of a fellow mammal to be smooth like our own, different animals adapt their body parts for different reasons. A cat's tongue feels rough to the touch. If we are cuddling...

Curiosity, hunger, stress, affection, and grooming are just a few of the reasons why a cat might lick your hands. Cats are very particular about their hygiene and use licking to keep their skin and fur clean. If you’ve ever wondered why a cat licks your hands, it’s often tied to their grooming habits, which...

The diversity of wildlife in Mexico is as vast as the country itself. Different regions have varying climates and types of habitat, meaning certain fauna can only thrive in certain areas. The state of Oaxaca is one of the most biodiverse regions in Mexico. In fact, it is one of the most biodiverse regions...

Otters are animals with an almost global population distribution, only lacking a presence in Australia and Antarctica. Despite such a wide habitat range, threats to their homes and other factors have changed population numbers dramatically. In particular, European otter populations were once much more widespread...

These small to medium-sized mammals inhabit a range of aquatic environments worldwide, including rivers, lakes, and oceans. There are 13 recognized otter species across the globe. Belonging to the family Mustelidae—which also includes weasels, badgers, and ferrets—otters are exceptional swimmers and divers....

Sniffer dogs, renowned for their exceptional sense of smell, are specially trained to detect and locate a wide range of substances and objects. These breeds are highly intelligent and can be easily trained to follow specific commands and perform their tasks with accuracy. These skilled canines play a crucial...

New Zealand, renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique biodiversity, is home to a remarkable array of wildlife. Isolated from the rest of the world for millions of years, this island nation has developed a distinctive ecosystem with many species found nowhere else on Earth. The country's animal...

The ocean teems with a diverse array of life, including the mesmerizing -and feared- jellyfish. Among these gelatinous creatures, the fried egg jellyfish is instantly recognizable for its distinctive appearance. While their beauty is undeniable, a common concern for water enthusiasts is the potential...

Sharks, with their ancient lineage and diverse species, have lifespans that vary widely, from just a few decades to over a century. Understanding the secrets of shark lifespan offers a unique window into the remarkable adaptability of these apex predators and the intricacies of their life cycles. From their...

Wasps are insects classified within the order Hymenoptera, the order which also contains bees, sawflies and ants. This is due to various characteristics which each individual species shares such as a narrow waist, hamuli wings and segmented antennae. Bees and wasps are known for their ability to sting, but this...

The Peruvian Inca Orchid and the Xoloitzcuintle are two dog breeds that are often confused with each other. This is understandable since they have many key characteristics which are similar. They are both from Latin America, an area of the world from which only a minority of recognized breeds originate....

Beavers are large rodents which belong to the Castoridae family. They are characterized by their unique ability to transform aquatic landscapes through the construction of dams and lodges. While their populations are spread throughout various types of habitat, they always live near bodies of water. This...

When a male dog mates with a female, the copulation process involves a period where the two dogs are stuck together. This is due to engorgement of the genitals and its purpose is to ensure that as much sperm as possible can be introduced to have the best chance of egg fertilization. When intertwined, the...

Mexico is known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, but did you know they are also the native home to some really interesting dog breed? With a rich history dating back centuries, this Latin American nation has produced some of the world's most unique and beloved dog breeds. From the tiny...

Also known as the man-o-war or bluebottle, the Portuguese man o' war (Physalia physalis) is a species of cnidarian. This means it is in the same taxonomic phylum as jellyfish, corals and sea anemones. Despite bearing similarities to jellyfish, these marine animals are actually hydrozoans. It is actually...

Clams are bivalve mollusks that play an essential role in aquatic ecosystems. They contribute to their habitats not only by providing a food source for other animals, but also in water filtration, nutrient recycling and other important benefits. They can do so thanks to a specialized anatomy which is...

Contrary to popular belief, sharks don't sleep in the same way humans or other land animals do.Their unique aquatic environment and physiological adaptations have resulted in a distinct approach to rest. Rather than experiencing deep, unconscious slumber, sharks engage in periods of reduced activity. This...

Beavers are iconic mammals renowned for their incredible engineering skills and aquatic lifestyle. These large rodents are native to North America and Eurasia, where they play a vital role in shaping their environment. Their dam-building activities create wetlands, which are crucial habitats for a diverse...

Jellyfish are captivating and diverse marine creatures that belong to the phylum Cnidaria, which also includes corals and sea anemones. Jellyfish are known for their unique stinging cells called cnidocytes, which contain venomous structures. While many species are harmless and pose little threat to humans,...

The weever is any of the various fish species of the genus Trachinus. Eight individual extant species are currently recognized. Although they have certain differences, each share certain characteristics. Perhaps most notable is their ability to sting with venom due to the presence of spines on their dorsal...

Indonesia, a vast group of islands between Southeast Asia and Oceania, has an amazing variety of wildlife. Its location near the equator and diverse landscapes, like rainforests and coastal mangroves, make it a perfect home for many species. However, this natural wealth is in danger. Many of Indonesia's...

For millennia, dogs have held a unique place by our side, offering companionship, service, and unwavering loyalty. But how deeply does this bond extend? Can they truly understand the complexities of human emotion? Research suggests that dogs are highly sensitive to human feelings, often responding to...

Sometimes referred to as making biscuits, kneading is a peculiar behavior in cats. The feline extends out their paws and draws their digits back and forth as if they were a baker kneading bread. They do it on many different surfaces, but usually those that are soft and give some resistance. These can...

Welcoming a litter of newborn kittens is an unforgettable experience for any cat lover. Their tiny paws and playful personalities make it hard to resist scooping them up for a cuddle. However, before you indulge that urge, it's important to understand the best practices for ensuring their health and safety. This...

It is not unusual to see your dog sticking out, especially during the summer and often accompanied by panting. While this behavior can be a way to regulate body temperature, it can also signal other emotions or, in some cases, even health issues. Understanding the various reasons behind this tongue...

Crabs, with over 6,700 distinct species, are essential members of diverse ecosystems. They thrive in a remarkable range of habitats, some crabs are terrestrial while others are entirely aquatic. Additionally, their dietary needs vary greatly, with some acting as herbivores while others are carnivores. Unsurprisingly,...

Descended from wolves and wild canines, dogs have a natural instinct to prepare a cozy sleeping spot by creating a comfy nest and adjusting temperature by fluffing for warmth or uncovering cooler layers. Scratching can also leave their scent, marking the bed as their own secure spot. However, there...

Crabs are crustaceans which mainly live in marine waters, although some are freshwater and a small number are mainly terrestrial. Despite their diverse habitats, they all share certain key physical features. These include an exoskeleton, stalked eyes, hard carapace and their famous pincer claws. Since they...

Despite their small size and lack of wings, fleas are notorious pests for pet owners and wildlife. These external parasites survive by feeding on the blood of mammals and birds, including common hosts like dogs, cats, rodents, and even humans. Understanding their life cycle and reproduction is crucial...

The silkworm moth (Bombyx mori), part of the Lepidoptera order, has been vital to human history due to its role in silk production. Its life cycle is also a fascinating example of adaptation. The key to the silkworm moth's success is its unique diet, which changes dramatically as it grows. In this AnimalWised...

Everyone knows that cats love to play around boxes, often pouncing, batting, and hiding inside them. This attraction isn't just a one time thing, cats repeatedly return to boxes for exploration, relaxation, and play. Their love for cardboard boxes is a curious and multifaceted phenomenon, offering them a...

Scorpions are air-breathing arachnids related to spiders and mites. They are easily recognized by their narrow, segmented tail ending in a stinger. This stinger can inject venom to subdue or kill their prey, and in some species, it can be dangerous to humans. However, scorpions are usually not aggressive towards...

Skunks were once considered types of mustelid from the family Mustelidae, the taxonomic family that includes otters, weasels, badgers and similar mammals. This is due to similarities in their physical appearance and behavior. There are various mustelids that live in Spain, including badgers, otters, pine...

Predators that specialize in consuming ants play a crucial role in various ecosystems around the world. These predators, ranging from insects to mammals and even birds, have adapted unique strategies to hunt and consume ants, capitalizing on their abundance and often formidable defenses. Ants, known for...

Sea lilies (crinoids) are a group of marine animals with a surprisingly ancient lineage. Despite their plant-like appearance and name, these filter feeders are close relatives of starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers, belonging to the echinoderm phylum. With a fossil record dating back 450 million...

Mexico is considered one of the most megadiverse countries in the world in terms of biodiversity. This means that the flora and fauna of Mexico includes a vast number of species, a great range of ecosystems and high levels of endemic species. One reason for this is its size, being larger than any individual...

Just like humans, cats experience distinct stages of life, each with specific needs. Understanding your cat's age is crucial for providing them with the tailored care, appropriate nutrition, and effective medical attention they deserve at every step of their journey. Whether you're welcoming a playful kitten,...

The dodo, an awkward flightless bird with oversized feet and a curious demeanor, has become a symbol of human-induced extinction. Once roaming freely on the island of Mauritius, these gentle giants vanished entirely within a century of human arrival. The dodo's tragic fate serves as a stark reminder of...

Cats have long captivated human imagination with their grace, agility, and mysterious character. Whether they're navigating narrow ledges or leaping from great heights, cats often seem to defy the odds and escape peril unscathed. No wonder why the saying "a cat has nine lives" has transcended cultures...

The loss of a dog causes heartache which will not be taken away by words alone. The difficult and painful experience of a dog's death takes time to process. The indelible mark they leave on our lives will not go away, but there are ways we can help the emotional pain of their loss turn into a positive...

Hummingbirds, are known by their vibrant colors and aerial acrobatics. Hummingbirds boast the fastest wing beats of any bird, a remarkable adaptation that fuels their unique flight style. Beyond their flight capabilities, hummingbirds play a crucial role in the ecosystems they inhabit. As pollinators, they facilitate...

The only true flying mammals, bats are a diverse group with over 1,400 identified species. These fascinating creatures range in size from a mere few inches of wingspan to wings over 5 feet wide! Warm-blooded like us, bats nurse their young with milk. They've adapted to thrive in a variety of ecosystems,...

Orthoptera is an order of insects that includes over 20,000 described species, such as grasshoppers, crickets, locusts, and related species. They are known for their ability to jump, thanks to their hind legs, which are significantly longer and more muscular than their front and middle legs. They are...

Jellyfish, sometimes called sea jellies, are fascinating gelatinous animals that drift through the oceans. With their translucent bodies and pulsating bells, they might seem like simple creatures. But beneath their seemingly delicate exterior lies a fascinating array of specialized parts that allow them...

Dolphins are fascinating aquatic mammals that belong to the toothed whale family (Odontoceti) within the cetacean group. Dolphins are found in oceans, seas, and some rivers and estuaries around the world. Different species have adapted to thrive in a variety of aquatic environments. However, while not...

Cats are known for their independent and sometimes enigmatic nature, which can make it challenging for owners to really understand their feline friends' emotional states. However, cats are masters of subtle communication, often expressing themselves through body language and quiet vocalizations, and understanding...

The world is a symphony of sounds, but for our dogs, it's a whole orchestra we can't even perceive. Dogs possess a remarkable hearing ability, far surpassing that of humans. This incredible auditory ability plays a crucial role in their survival instincts, communication, and even their bond with us.The...

Jellyfish have a unique morphology, with a body that resembles few others in the animal kingdom. Despite this appearance, they carry out the same necessary functions and behaviors as all living things. They feed, reproduce and even respire. Respiration in jellyfish is possible thanks to their specially...