Facts about the animal kingdom
1.140 articles
Iguanas are a group of reptiles belonging to the Iguanidae family, in which there are more than 40 individual species of lizard. While there is a great diversity of iguana species with a wide-ranging population distribution, perhaps the most well-known the green iguana (Iguana iguana). Although it is...
Spiders are a diverse group of arachnids, with over 40,000 known species displaying a vast array of sizes, behaviors, and adaptations. Although tarantulas are part of the spider family (Araneae), they are distinguished by their impressive size and robust build. In addition to their notable size, tarantulas...
When asking where iguanas live, we need to be specific. While many may think of the green iguana as being the most representative iguana species, there are around 40 extant species in the family Iguanidae which have been identified. Divided into seven genera, these iguana species are most associated with...
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,...
There are many species of cetaceans, which are divided into two major groups: Mysticetes, which have beards, and Odontocetes, which have teeth. There are several families of dolphins, and most of them are distinguished by their social skills, even with humans, and by their striking way of communicating....
Understanding more than one language in today's age is incredibly important. Whether for work, studies or self-fulfillment, languages are important in communicating fairly and equally with the rest of the world. Language allows for deeper connection between people and a greater understanding of different cultures.
Are...
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...
Are you looking for examples of vertebrate and invertebrate animals? Planet Earth has a very extensive biodiversity, traditionally classified into taxonomic ranks. These ranks are not always steadfast and scientists are regularly revising categories. The animal kingdom (Animalia) includes human beings....
Gorillas are the largest primates in existence and have very similar DNA to that of human beings. It is understandable why they capture our imagination like they do. Gorillas are fascinating and incredibly strong animals. People often compare human strength to gorillas, mainly due to their similarities....
If you own a rabbit you will probably have wondered once or twice if they actually sleep, because it seems like they're always awake. Regardless of the species or fur, they're adorable animals who have very interesting behavior.
Of course rabbits sleep, but they do so differently to other more popular pets....
If you have a Boxer dog or are thinking of adopting one, it's normal to be curious about their life expectancy. Although there are never guarantees, you will want to know what to expect for practical and emotional reasons. In this AnimalWised article, we'll provide details of the life expectancy of a Boxer dog...
When it comes to choosing a pet, remember you're making a commitment to look after an animal for its whole life. If you live up to your responsibility, hopefully this life will be long and fulfilling. In general, small animals have a short life expectancy due to their increased metabolism, while bigger animals...
Nowadays we're very used to seeing peacocks in parks and gardens in almost every continent. Their popularity is in a large part owed to their striking plumage and docile nature. In fact, peafowl were artificially introduced to most of these areas centuries to keep as decoration.
In this AnimalWised article,...
Increasing numbers of people are choosing to adopt animals from kennels or shelters rather than buying them in order to save them from being put down. Whilst pedigree dogs can sometimes be found there, it's true that it is more common to find cross-breed dogs that can't be identified.
It's quite easy...
If you've got a cat at home you'll probably know what we're talking about; cats are animals that love physical contact and interacting with those who they live with. Some regular behaviors include rubbing up against you, asking for affection, scratching, making sounds and kneading you. But have you...
Your dog probably loves you much more than you think, and that's because it's in their nature and survival instinct to follow around those who provide them with food and affection. However, you might not be sure about your dog's affection if you haven't had them at home for long.
Dogs show us how much...
There are many diseases and health disorders which can be found in both humans and animals. While there are diseases which can be contracted by both humans and animals, genetic disorders do not function in the same way. Some people may wonder whether animals can have Down syndrome because they have seen...
Since 2005, Discovery Channel has been airing a reality TV series called Deadliest Catch about the fishing fleet that hunts different species of crabs in the Bering Sea. They show the hard working conditions of the brave fishermen, who work in one of the most dangerous jobs in the world in a deadly, cold...
If you are planning on adopting a songbird to brighten your morning, or if you want to attract birds to your garden, read on! AnimalWised has compiled a list of the top 5 birds with the best birdsong, along with some interesting facts that you should consider if you want to adopt one. Remember that birds...
Are you looking for an example of an omnivorous animal? Here at AnimalWised we love to discover things about the animal kingdom, and for this reason we also enjoy learning about the nutritional needs of all living things. If you already know examples of carnivores and herbivores and what you now want...
Dogs are curious animals by nature and it is normal that sometimes this curiosity ends up getting them into trouble. They use their mouth to investigate anything that is put within their reach.
This may generate problems when they find something that is harmful for their health, especially if we have...
Treating a dog like a human is a common trait among canine guardians. To some extent, it is a positive sign. It means the level of love and respect they have for their companion animals is high. They want to treat them as if they were part of the family and express just how close a bond they feel when...
When walking along any beach in your country, you can find countless sea shells and conches, each more beautiful than the last. Here we'll give you some very common examples, and then begin discussing more exotic specimens. You'll learn about the different types and see photos to help differentiate them.
Keep...
The reproduction of turtles and tortoises is a very broad topic, as there are many different species that breed through different methods and processes. As you know, there are land tortoises, freshwater turtles and sea turtles. Within each of these categories there are various species and subspecies.
This...
The ocean is a vast world. Humans have put all their efforts into understanding it, exploring it and conquering it, yet its depths remain virtually unknown. For everyone, the ocean is an enormous, powerful beauty which commands a lot of respect.
The ocean is a whole different world, and it's full of life....
In this article, bird lovers will find four very important tips about attracting birds to your garden. As you already know, these small animals are a bit shy, so you will have to be patient.
Once the birds realize that your garden is a good and safe area to fly in, you will enjoy the presence of a wide...
The koala, scientifically known as Phascolarctos cinereus is one of the 270 species belonging to the family of marsupials. It is estimated that 200 species live in Australia and 70 live in America.
This animal is approximately 76 centimeters (30 in) in length and male koalas can weigh up to 14 kilos (30...
Cheetahs are also known by their scientific name, Acinonyx jubatus. They are very different from other felines because they hunt using their sight and high speed, taking the title of world's fastest animal.
Contrary to popular belief, cheetahs are not originally from Africa. In fact, they migrated from...
There are many people looking who look for a partner for their dog - they might even call it "looking for a boyfriend or girlfriend" or "matchmaking" - so that their pet can either enjoy the company of other dogs in a fun and different way, or so that they can have puppies.
No matter your purpose, the important...
The term porcupine consists of different species of rodents that belong to the suborder Hystricomorpha, together with other well-known animals such as chinchillas, capybaras or guinea pigs.
The word derives from the spines on the skin of this mammal. There are two families of porcupines according to their...
Vermilingua, or anteaters, are extraordinary animals and have many special characteristics. This animal primarily feeds on ants and termites thanks to its powerful claws and its cylindrical tongue, which can measure up to 60 centimeters - 23 inches - in length and is particularly sticky.
There are four...
Not only are elephants the largest land mammal in the world, but they are incredibly intelligent. Relatives of wooly mammoths that became extinct 3,700 years ago, there are two current extant species. These are the African elephant (Loxodonta africana) and the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus). For such large...
The coconut crab, known scientifically as Birgus latro, does not take its name from it appearance. In fact, this species of arthropod is known to feed on coconuts, which it opens with its pincers. However, that is not the most surprising thing about these animals.
Coconut crabs are the heaviest living...
You've most likely heard of "the Big Five" game animals from the African savanna. These five animals are all big, powerful and strong; the name comes because of their being seen as the five most difficult animals to hunt in that continent. The term has become very popular since the first safaris.
In this...
Elephants are large mammals which have a great impact on the ecology in which they exist and have been a fascinating subject for zoologists for centuries. Images of them have even been found way back in the Paleolithic period. They are incredibly clever and have been proven by some scientific studies...
Albino dogs are not the same as white dogs; albinism is the result of genetics, as it is manifested when particular recessive alleles are passed down and the individual does not have the right amount of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in the production of melanin. Consequently, albinism is a congenital...
Cats are animals that are found in abundance in our streets. This is mainly because they have a very short gestation period, which means they can cause overpopulation in a very short period of time, but this is a discussion for another day. In this article we will try to give you some tips for shooing...
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...
Many people prefer not to adopt Pit Bull, Doberman or Rottweiler dogs, among other breeds, because of their inclusion in many "dangerous dogs" lists; in fact, countries like Spain have specific laws regarding these dogs, which are considered potentially dangerous.
History brands these dog breeds severely....
Many Game of Thrones fans have enjoyed seeing the direwolves, a fictional species of giant wolves inspired by a real-life prehistoric species, the dire wolf or Canis dirus. If they are extinct, how do they appear on screen? If you are wondering whether the wolves from Game of Thrones are real or special...
Baja California is a state at the northwestern corner of Mexico. It's located in the peninsula of the same name, and it borders with the United States, more specifically with the states of Arizona and California. This Mexican state stands out thanks to its huge variety of marine wildlife at both sides of...
Cats are cute animals, and if you're really fond of cats like us, you will know that despite their bad reputation, having one of these little beasts in our life, always provides us with happiness and countless moments of laughter and fun. With this said, cats are still independent and sometimes elusive...
If you have a Pit Bull of any type, you will undoubtedly have heard that they are dangerous dogs that may attack anyone at any moment. In fact, it is very likely that your friends and family have been the first people to tell you such things; we at AnimalWised have encountered the same problems.
If your...
Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are not just one of the most beautiful animals in the world. They are also extremely interesting from a scientific perspective, as these bears live in the Arctic Circle and thus are adapted to survive in one of the most extreme climates in the world.
Have you ever wondered...
No matter whether we are animal experts or not, just being in the presence of an animal makes us feel better and happier. This is because animals have a very special energy and - in most cases - they are tender and easy-going.
Animals always make us laugh and smile, but many of us ask ourselves if it is...
Some religions worship particular animals; in some cases, these sacred animals become symbols of a particular quality or tradition valued by the religion in question. In many mythologies, gods have associated animals that act as their companions or messengers, or even take the form of animals themselves.
Hinduism,...
There are many unexpected events which occur when you adopt a cat. While we do everything we can to prepare for the arrival of a feline into our family, we need to expect the unexpected. For example, we need to ensure we have the means to pay veterinary bills if some threat to their health occurs. For...
Although it doesn't always seem like it, animals change their habits to adapt to new temperatures. We've all heard of animals who hibernate, but you may also notice domestic pets being less active when it's cold. This leads to questions like: Why does my cat sleep so much? Do cats sleep more in the winter?...
Fish can be divided into two categories: Freshwater fish and saltwater fish. Freshwater fish live in habitats where water salinity is low, as is the case in rivers and lakes, while saltwater fish enjoy life in the ocean, lagoons and coral reefs, where the salinity is higher than 0.05%.
No matter their...
