Animal fun facts

Grasshoppers are members of the order Orthoptera, the order which also contains crickets. The name of this order translates as ‘straight wings’, referencing the wing anatomy of this insect species. While their taxonomic name references flight, their common name points toward their other defining ability,...

Dragonflies and damselflies are common sights near freshwater, often mistaken for each other. Despite their shared habitat, these insects belong to distinct suborders within the Odonata family. Millions of years of evolution have shaped them into unique creatures with distinct characteristics. This AnimalWised...

Cacomistles (Bassariscus sumichrasti) are animals that belong to the Procyonidae family, a family of animals that also contains kinkajous, coatis and the raccoon. This latter animal is the most widely distributed procyonid in the world, but the cacomistle is much less known. This is partly due to its much...

Chameleons are renowned for their mesmerizing color changes, but there's another captivating aspect to their biology: their distinct reproductive strategies. Adapted to survive in varied habitats, chameleons employ two different methods of reproduction, some lay eggs while others give birth to live young. This...

Have you ever watched your feline friend meticulously bury their feces in the litter box? This seemingly strange behavior is actually a deeply ingrained instinct with several reasons behind it. Understanding your cat's natural tendencies is key to building a strong bond and creating a harmonious home for...

Beavers have some of the most interesting morphological features of all mammals. There are two beaver species of the genus Castor, the North American beaver (Castor canadensis) and the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber). Although they vary slightly in size and other features, they are very similar. While...

Raccoons are medium-sized mammals native to North and South America, easily recognized by their distinctive black facial mask and bushy, ringed tail. They are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and mischievous reputation. The exact number of raccoon species depends on classification. Some recognize...

Mosquitoes are some of the most common and widespread insects on Earth. We encounter them flitting around gardens and sneaking into our homes, often associating them with sleepless nights due to their nocturnal activity. However, mosquitoes also exhibit periods of rest. Does this downtime translate to...

New Zealand and Australia are often confused with each other, with some thinking them as being interchangeable. Despite similarities in location and culture, they have very stark differences in terms of geography and biodiversity. Australia is associated with some very dangerous animals, with many people...

Have you ever found yourself passionately singing a power ballad, only to be unexpectedly accompanied by your dog's howl? Or perhaps a similar scenario has unfolded while you practiced an instrument or belted out tunes in the shower. This amusing yet puzzling behavior, where dogs howl to music, is a common...

Skunks are a group of carnivorous animals that belong to the family Mephitidae. They were once considered part of the Mustelidae family, the family that currently contains weasels, martens, badgers and other mammals. Although they share certain characteristics, they have sufficient differences to warrant...

If you wanted to impugn someone's intelligence, you may say they have a mosquito brain. The implication is that mosquitoes have such low intelligence they have no brains at all. Being such small invertebrate animals, they are not known for complex cognitive processes such as emotional reactions. They are known...

Belonging to the order Diptera, this incredibly diverse group encompasses a vast array of species, from the familiar housefly to the bizarre botfly. But what allows these insects to thrive in such a wide range of environments? The key lies in their fascinating anatomy. Their bodies are segmented into...

The cacomistle, also known as the ringtail, is a fascinating mammal native to Central and North America. Its name originates from the Aztec language, where it translates to "half-cat" or "mountain lion," depending on the source. They are easily recognizable by their raccoon-like face and bushy tails...

Penguins walk in such a way that we can perhaps describe it more as a waddle than stride. Their gait appears is as if their legs are bound together with seemingly very little dexterity. Some interpret this as meaning the penguin has no knees. Knees give the leg flexibility and agility, something penguins seem...

Around 10 million pets go missing in the US annually. Of those, only about 1 in 3 dogs are ever returned to their owners. Not only that, but 15-20% of dogs will run away at least once in their lifetime. Dogs run away for a complex mix of reasons, but it often boils down to instinct, fear, or frustration....

Otters are mustelid animals that are known for their mischievous behavior and adorable little faces. With their incredibly dexterous paws, they are able to carry out behaviors which show them to be intelligent and well adapted to their semi-aquatic environment. Despite their undoubted cuteness, it is important...

Have you ever felt a shiver down your spine when approaching an unfamiliar dog, only to have it react nervously too? It might not be a coincidence. We all known that dogs possess a remarkable sense of smell, thousands of times more acute than ours. What if they could also sniff out something as intangible as...

Skunks are a type of mammal which make up the family Mephitidae, a more diverse taxonomic category than many of us might believe. This diversity has changed over time since similar mammals have been excluded or included over the years. Currently, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)...

As the summer approaches, it becomes essential for us to understand how our dogs manage to stay cool, especially in places of extreme temperatures where dogs may be at risk of heatstroke. We can tell dogs are hot if we notice they are panting heavily after a walk or a game session on a hot day. But what about...

Earning the trust of a cat can be a rewarding journey, especially when dealing with a shy or fearful cat. Unlike their canine counterparts, cats tend to be more independent creatures who take their time warming up to new people or situations. But fear not, with a little patience, understanding, and...

The birth of young animals is an amazing sight, providing insight into the amazing adaptations that each species has to offer. To ensure that their progeny flourish in the wild, they engage in a complicated ballet of behavior and biology during their intriguing reproductive trip. This AnimalWised article...

Have you ever watched your furry friend spin in circles before settling down for a nap? It's a common sight that often brings a smile, but have you ever wondered why they do it? This seemingly simple behavior holds a rich history rooted in instinct and serves several purposes beyond just getting comfortable....

These fascinating mammals have spent millions of years adapting to a life beneath the surface, becoming true champions of the dark, subterranean world. While most are familiar with their burrowing activities, some species even thrive in aquatic environments. Beyond their remarkable digging skills, moles...

Sheep (Ovis aries) have played a significant role in human civilization for millennia, and their importance continues today. They have provided us with food (meat, milk), clothing (wool's natural insulation made it ideal), and even tools (crafted from hides and bones). Through selective breeding, a remarkable...

Ants are a family of insects known as Formicidae, themselves part of the order Hymenoptera. This order also includes bees and wasps, insects which are commonly known for their ability to sting. Ants share many similarities with other hymenopterans, including compound eyes and the presence of an ovipositor...

Have you ever witnessed your cat take a daring leap and land seemingly unscathed? It's no wonder the saying goes that "cats always land on their feet." But is this feline feat truly a magical superpower, or is there more to the story? This AnimalWised article dives deeper than the popular saying to explore...

Stitch from Lilo & Stitch is a mischievous little creature with a serious curiosity streak. It is partly this curiosity which has endeared this animated Disney character to so many fans of any age, although particularly to millennials and gen Zers. While many of Disney's animated features up to this movie...

With their slow movements and protective shells, turtles have captivated humans for centuries. These fascinating reptiles boast a rich history, being some of the oldest living creatures on Earth. While some turtle species call the land home, others have adapted to a life in the water. One of the greatest...

If we adopt a purebred dog, one of the benefits in terms of care is knowing how large they are likely to grow. This is an important factor for many of us since we might have space limitations in our home. Larger dogs create larger bills in terms of their upkeep. They are also more prone to various diseases...

Ever notice your dog looking extra guilty after an "accident"? Do they truly understand what they did wrong, or is there something else going on? Many dog owners believe their furry friends are masters of apology, with those droopy ears and soulful eyes. But the truth is, canine communication works differently. This...

Those who share their lives with a dog understand the endless opportunities they provide for heartwarming photos. Whether armed with a professional DSLR or relying on a trusted smartphone, the temptation to capture their playful antics and tender moments is irresistible. However, unlike human models, dogs don't...

The marten is a type of mustelid within the family Mustelidae, a classification which also includes weasels, minks, ferrets, badgers and otters, among other animals. Mustelids have a very wide distribution, with populations on almost every continent, with Antarctica being the most notable exception. Different...

The warm embrace of summer nights often brings with it a familiar sound – the chirping of crickets. These nocturnal insects are more than just nighttime serenaders; they're also masters of movement. Their strong hind legs allow them to cover impressive distances in a single leap, a feat that sparks curiosity...

A bird's plumage is one of their defining characteristics and vital to their survival in the wild. Ensuring they take care of their feathers means ensuring their health and well-being. A bird will puff up their feathers for many reasons, all related to maintaining their well-being in some way. This can...

The Chow Chow is an ancient dog breed originating from China. Its most striking features are its thick, double coat, which comes in various colors like red, black, and cream, and its unique blue or black tongue. This breed possesses an independent spirit and exhibits intelligence, though it can also...

The domestic horse (Equus ferus caballus) is a large hooved mammal which has been used by humans in farming and other working practices for millennia. This is a description which could also be applied to another animal used commonly in farming, the cow. Cows are domesticated ruminant animals which are...

Madagascar, a vibrant island bursting with biodiversity, boasts a staggering 90% of its animal and plant species found nowhere else on Earth! This unique ecosystem serves as the backdrop for DreamWorks' beloved film, "Madagascar" (2005). Among the quirky characters stealing the show is the flamboyant...

Insects of the Lampyridae family have various common names. Some know them as lightning bugs, others glowworms and many as fireflies. These names refer to their ability to glow in the dark, an ability which occurs thanks to their bioluminescence, a phenomenon that has captured the imagination of anyone...

Hippopotamuses (Family Hippopotamidae) are semi-aquatic herbivorous mammals that inhabit the aquatic ecosystems of Africa. Known for their imposing size, robustness and territorial behavior, hippos are one of the largest and most powerful land mammals in the world. This should be of little surprise when we...

Antarctica is a place on Earth unlike any other, with its enormous ice sheets, majestic glaciers, and surreal scenery. Although the climate on this southernmost continent is harsh and cruel, it nevertheless sustains an incredibly rich and diversified biosphere. Animals in the Antarctic have developed...

There are over 4,800 known frog species found worldwide in a variety of habitats, from rainforests to deserts. They come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and even have unique adaptations depending on their environment. Frogs undergo a remarkable metamorphosis during their life cycle. They start as...

The world's remaining rhinoceros species are truly magnificent creatures, boasting impressive size and unique adaptations. However, their very existence hangs in the balance due in part to habitat loss and fragmentation. Understanding where rhinos live and why is crucial for their conservation. This AnimalWised...

Millions of years ago, the oceans teemed with incredible creatures: prehistoric marine reptiles. These weren't actually dinosaurs, but a separate group of reptiles that adapted to life in the water. They ruled the oceans during the Mesozoic Era (252 million to 66 million years ago) and came in a variety of...

Birds are a class of warm-blooded vertebrates with distinguishing features including feathers, wings, and beaks. They are renowned for their remarkable diversity, encompassing over 10,000 known species. This diversity is evident in their size, shape, coloration, behavior, and preferred habitats. However,...

With its sleek physique, pointed ears, and bushy tail, the cunning fox is a well-known figure in folklore and around the world. These adaptable canines flourish in various environments, ranging from icy tundras to sunny deserts. Nature, in its cleverness, has created a remarkable array of creatures that...

The human nose might not be the most powerful tool in our arsenal, but in the animal kingdom, scent is king. From tracking prey across vast distances to identifying potential mates, some creatures possess an olfactory superpower. The sense of smell in animals, also known as olfaction, is a powerful...

The defining characteristic of placental mammals lies within a remarkable organ – the placenta. This specialized structure acts as a lifeline, fostering the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the developing fetus and the mother's bloodstream. This unique adaptation, coupled with...

Have you ever watched your dog twitching paws or whimpering in their sleep? It's a common sight that leaves many wondering if dogs dream. The answer is yes! Dogs, like humans, experience sleep cycles that include periods of dreaming. Understanding our canine companions' dreams offers a fascinating glimpse...

Sloths are known for their slow movement, often looking sleepy even when most active. This is not the same as being asleep and they will need different periods of rest and activity depending on various factors. Sloths belong to the order Pilosa, an order of mammals that also includes anteaters. Sloths...