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Animal Profiles - A to Z List
The following is an A to Z list of animal profiles available, sorted alphabetically by scientific name. Blue-Footed Booby (Sula nebouxii)
The blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii) is an adorable seabird with bright seafoam-blue webbed feet and a blue-gray face to match. Great Barrier Reef Climate
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest tropical reef system, covering an area of 348,000 km2 and stretching along 2300km of the eastern Australian coastline. Predators of the Reef
Predators on the reef come in many shapes and sizes. Sharks are the iconic reef predator and species that visit the reef include tiger sharks, black-tipped reef sharks, and white-tipped reef sharks. Animal Profiles - A to Z
The following is an A to Z list of animal profiles available, sorted by animal group. Animals (Kindom Animalia)
Animals (Kindom Animalia) are multicellular organisms that are capable of locomotion and rely on other organisms to obtain their nourishment. Snail Classification
Snails are invertebrates, they lack a backbone. They belong to a large and highly diverse group of invertebrates known as the Phylum Mollusca (also known more commonly as 'mollusks'). The Phylum Mollusca includes slugs, clams, oysters, mussels, squids, octopuses, and nautiluses, in addition to snails. Marine Fish of the Great Barrier Reef
Well over one thousand species of marine fish inhabit the Great Barrier Reef. Online Tour of Degrees
Looking for a university that offers a degree in zoology? Curious about faculty and research topics? Trying to find out more about the zoology courses offered at colleges throughout the country? If so, the links listed in this article can help you find the answers you need. Birds (Aves)
Birds (Aves) are warm-blooded (endothermic) vertebrates. Birds have feathers covering their skin and their forelimbs are modified into wings. The Working Zoologist
Do you ever wonder how to employ your love of animals and wildlife? Here are some professions to consider. Panthera Subspecies
There are numerous lion subspecies and there is disagreement among experts as to which subspecies are recognized. A Natural History of Hummingbirds
In the 17th century, hummingbirds were prized for their feathers and many birds were hunted extensively. Fortunately today hummingbirds are protected against such collection. Quiz: Biochemistry Basics
Put your biochemistry knowledge to the test in this quiz. How Large Do Snails Grow?
Snails grow to a variety of different sizes depending on the species and individual. A Natural History of Terrestrial Snails
Most terrestrial snails are hermaphroditic which means that each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs. Ten Facts About Owls
Owls are a group of birds known for their distinct calls, nocturnal habits, and silent flight. Owls are familiar to many people because they are often depected in various ways in popular culture. Quiz: Do You Know Your Animal Groups?
Put your animal identification skills to the test in this quiz. Great Barrier Reef Animals
It wasn't until the mid-18th century that corals were recognized as animals, not, as previously thought, plants. Reptiles
Reptiles (Reptilia) includes turtles, snakes, lizards, worm lizards, crocodiles, alligators, caimans, and gavials. Quiz: An Introduction to Zoology
Put your zoology knowledge to the test in this quiz. Life Cycle of a Jellyfish
The most recognized image of a jellyfish is that of the adult jellyfish, with its bell-shaped body and long tentacles. Vertebrates and Invertebrates
Among the most fundamental criteria by which animals are sorted is whether or not they possess a backbone. This distinction places an animal into one of two groups: the vertebrates or the invertebrates. What Is an Animal?
What is an animal? It's a simple enough question, but the answer is complex and requires an understanding of some rather hefty scientific concepts and terms. Here we'll explore the basic characteristics that make an organism an animal and attempt to decipher the scientific jargon that surrounds these concepts. Top 10 Conservation Groups
A personal inventory of the first ten organizations that come to mind when I donate my money to protect wildlife. There are many superb organizations, I'm certain this list could easily be lengthened. Still, if you're new to conservation or are looking for a well-established, reputable organization to join, this is a good starting point. Ten Facts About Zebras
Zebras, with their familiar horse-like physique and their distinct black and white striping pattern, are among the most recognizable of all mammals. We learn at an early age to distinguish zebras from other animals (when learning the alphabet, youngsters are often shown a picture of a zebra and are taught 'Z is for Zebra'). Tiger
The tiger is the largest of all cats. This majestic creature grows to lengths of 4 1/2 to 9 1/2 feet and weights of 220 to 660 pounds. The tiger's coat is orange with black stripes and white markings on its face, chest, and underside. Density Independent
A factor that influences individuals in a population in a manner that does not vary with the extent of crowding present in the population. North and South American Cats
Pumas, also known as mountain lions, catamonts, panthers or cougars, are a large cat whose former range extended from coast to coast across North America. By 1960, they were declared extinct in most midwestern and eastern ranges. The Small Cats
The Subfamily Felinae, or the small cats, are a diverse group of carnivores. Giant Panda
Giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) belong to the bear family (Ursidae). They have distinct black and white coloration. True Jellyfish
Jellyfish belong to the Class Scyphozoa. Jellyfish are delicate, soft-bodied animals. They are invertebrates—jellyfish have no bones, exoskeleton, or shell to protect or support them. Endangered Animals (GA)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Snail Anatomy
Snails are very different from humans so when we think about body parts, we're often at a loss when relating the familiar parts of a human body to snails. Arctic Wolf
The Arctic wolf (Canis lupus arctos) is a subspecies of the Grey wolf (Canis lupus). Adult Arctic wolves are between 25 and 31 inches in height (measured at shoulder) and reach weights of up to 175 pounds. Females tend to be smaller and lighter than males. They measure between 3 and 5 feet from head to tail. Their thick coat is off-white. Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes
All living organisms can be sorted into one of two groups depending on the fundamental structure of their cells. These two groups are the prokaryotes and the eukaryotes. Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountain Range is an ancient band of mountains that stretches in a southwestern arc from the Canadian province of Newfoundland to central Alabama, the heart of southeastern United States. Amphibian and Reptile ID Tips
Through a series of steps, this identification key will help you to learn the basics of identifying the main families of reptiles and amphibians. The Six Basic Animal Groups
If you're just starting to learn about animals and wildlife, it would be an overwhelming task to try and memorize species, one by one. Instead, an understanding of the main groups of animals provides a good foundation for further learning. Organ Systems and What They Do
Animals' bodies are made up of various organ systems, groups of organs that work together to perform a function. 'Save the Albatross' Campaign Fights to Save Albatrosses
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and BirdLife International have joined together to create the Save the Albatross initiative that focuses on albatross protection and conservation. Their aim is to address the problem posed by longline fishing: African Cats
The cats of Africa include the caracal, serval, cheetah, lion, and leopard. Anemonefish
Anemonefish are a unique group of fish that live amongst the tentacles of sea anemones. The anemone's tentacles sting and paralyze most fish that brush against them. Meerkat Manor
Get an intimate glimpse of some personality-packed meerkats as they face the challenges of life in Africa's Kalahari Desert. Mammals
Mammals (Class Mammalia) belong to a group of vertebrates that includes approximately 5,400 extant species. Mammals display a remarkable array of adaptations that enable them to inhabit a wide range of habitats. Mammals range in size from the minute Bumblebee Bat which measures a mere three centimeters in length, to the magnificent blue whale, which can grow to as much as 33 metres in length—at such an immense dimension, it is undoubtedly the largest animal alive today. What Is Sexual Dimorphism?
Sexual dimorphism is the difference in form between male and female members of the same species. An Introduction to Zoology
Zoology is the study of animals (Gr. zoon, animal + logos, to study). This sounds like a simple definition, but upon further clarification, the "study of animals" turns out to be a broad and complex subject matter. Cats
Cats inhabit a wide variety of habitats including coasts, deserts, forests, grasslands, and mountains. They have colonized almost every corner of the globe with the exceptions of Australia, Greenland, Iceland, New Zealand, Antarctica, Madagascar, and remote oceanic islands. The Large Cats
The Subfamily Pantherinae, or the large cats, include the most powerful and well-recognized cats on Earth. Sponges and Echinoderms
Sponges belong to the Phylum Porifera. Sponges occur in almost every type of aquatic habitats but are most common in the marine habitats. A Visual Guide to Hummingbirds
Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds are one of fifteen species of hummingbirds thatbreed within the United States. Of those fifteen species, the ruby-throated hummingbird is the only species that ventures east of the Mississippi River. Cats of Asia
Snow leopards live in mountainous habitat at elevations of between 2000 and 6000 meters. Their range extends from northwestern China to Tibet and the Himalayas. Amino Acids and Proteins
Proteins are organic molecules that are vital to the structure and function of living organisms. The underlying elements that make up all proteins include carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and (in some cases) sulfur. Amphibians
Amphibians (Class Amphibia) include fascinating creatures such as salamanders, newts, caecilians, frogs, and toads. These animals' ancestors were the first to venture out from the water and adapt to life on land. Amphibian larvea are often aquatic and go through a complex metamorphosis process as they grow to adulthood. They have moist skin and do not have scales, feathers or hair. Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains stretch through western North America from Alaska to New Mexico, forming the middle section of the Western Cordillera, an extensive belt of mountains that reaches from the Arctic Circle to Mexico. Coelenterates
A group of primitive aquatic animals that includes jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones. Sea Star Outbreaks
There are some species that inhabit the Great Barrier Reef that can tips its balance from time to time. Among those species is the crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci), a large starfish that can grow to diameters of more than a meter and can have up to 21 arms. Polar Bear
The polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is among the largest land carnivores, comparable in size only to the brown bear. Polar bears weigh in the range of 400kg-680kg (880lb-1500lb) and are 2.1m-3.3m (7ft-11ft) in length. 'Alliance for Zero Extinction' Targeting Key Habitats to Save Species
The Alliance for Zero Extinction (AZE) has drawn up a list of sites around the world where endangered species are under the imminent threat of extinction if no immediate action is take to save their habitat. Protecting Endangered Species
Explore this quick guide to endangered species topics and find links to conservation organizations that act on behalf of threatened animals. Locate the information you need to participate in conservation efforts. Find information about how you can stay informed about current wildlife protection efforts. Leopard
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the cat family (Felidae). The leopard's coat has a background color of pale, cream-yellow on its underside that darkens slightly to an orange-brown on its back. How Do Tides and Waves Work?
Waves give rhythm to the ocean. They transport energy over vast distances. Where they make landfall, waves help to sculpt a unique and dynamic mosaic of coastal habitats. How Animals are Classified
For centuries, the naming and classification of living organisms into groups has been an integral part of the study of nature. Carnivores
Carnivores are animals belonging to the Order Carnivora. The Order Carnivora contains 7 families and about 250 species. This group of animals includes dogs and their relatives, bears, racoons, mustelids, civits, hyenas, aardwolf, and cats. Great White Shark
The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), also known as the 'white shark' or 'white pointer', is a powerful swimmer and efficient predator that inhabits temperate and subtropical regions of the world's oceans. Adult white sharks reach lengths of 6m-8m (20ft-26ft) and can weigh 2 tons (2 tonnes) or more. Chordates
The unifying characteristic of chordates (Phylum Chordata) is the presense of a notochord (an internal skeletal rod that provides support) during some stage of the animal's development. Ten Facts About Dolphins
Dolphins are well known for their intellect, their gregarious nature, and their acrobatic abilities. But there are many lesser known qualities that makes a dolphin what it is. Here we'll explore ten characteristics of dolphins and learn more about these much-loved marine mammals. Arthropods
The Phylum Arthropoda includes insects, spiders, crustaceans, scorpions, and centipedes. Arthropods are bilaterally symmetrical and have segmented bodies. Their body is covered with an exoskeleton and many arthropods have compound eyes. Ten Facts About Jellyfish
Jellyfish have a bad reputation for the threats they can pose to swimmers and holiday makers visiting beaches around the world. But there's more to jellyfish than a nasty sting. In this article we'll take a closer look at these unique creatures. Ten Facts About Octopi
From clouds of ink to chromatophores, there's more to octopi than eight arms. Sally Lightfoot Crab (Grapsus grapsus)
Sally Lightfoot Crabs (Grapsus grapsus), also known as red rock crabs, are scavengers and are common along much of South America's western coastlines. Diversity and Evolultion
The Great Barrier Reef is among the most complex ecosystems on the planet, providing habitat for a stunning variety and number of species. An Introduction to Mammals
Learn more about mammals including, their characteristics, evolution, adaptations, and more. Mammals, as a group of animals, belong to the Class Mammalia. The Class Mammalia, in turn, belongs to the larger group known as the vertebrates (animals with backbones; also called the Phylum Chordata). An Introduction to Horses
Horses and their relatives, known collectively as equids, are beautiful, captivating mammals. They posess grace, speed, and endurance. Hiking Boots or Walking Shoes
A comfortable, durable pair of shoes is a necessity for any animal enthusiast who enjoys exploring the outdoors on foot. Insects
Insects are a highly successful group of animals. The Insecta account for more species of animals than any other class of animals. Characteristics of Birds
Birds are an amazing and diverse group of animals. Birds, best known for their ability to fly, are unmatched in their command of the skies. Albatrosses glide long distances over the open sea, hummingbirds can hover motionless in mid-air, and eagles are highly effective aerial predators. Feather Stars
animals wildlife coral reef Great Barrier Reef marine life feather stars echinoderms What Is Royal Jelly?
Also known as bee's milk, royal jelly is a creamy substance produced by young nurse worker bees. The jelly is secreted from the hypopharyngeal gland, which is located in the bee's head. Recommended Reading
If you would like to learn more about the Great Barrier Reef, I would highly recommend Reader's Digest Guide to the Great Barrier Reef. Bats
Bats (Order Chiroptera) are the worlds only group of mammals that have wings. Although some other groups of mammals, such as flying lemurs, are able to glide using skin membranes, only bats are capable of true flight. Protecting Wildlife
If you are interested in getting involved in wildlife conservation, be sure to take a closer look this list of organizations. Endangered Animals (AZ)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Green Sea Turtle
The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) is among the largest marine turtles and is also the most widespread. It grows to lengths of about 3 to 4 feet and weights of up to 200 kg. Its front limbs are flipper-like and are used to propel itself through the water. Wild Side of Animal Senses
Radar, compasses, and infrared detectors are all man-made contraptions that enable humans to stretch beyond our natural senses. American Black Bear
The American black bear (Ursus americanus) is a medium-sized bear that grows to about 4 to 6 feet in length and between 120 and 660 pounds in weight. Black bears have powerful limbs and are equiped with short claws that enable them to break apart logs, climb trees, and collect grubs and worms. A Visual Guide to Terrestrial Snails
Adelie Penguin
The Adelie Penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) has a black back and a white belly and white rings around their eyes. Their wings are black on top and white underneath. Giraffe
Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) are hoofed mammals with long legs and a long neck. Their skin is a patchwork of dark chestnut spots separated by thin cream colored lines. How to Tell the Panthera Species Apart
Burchell's Zebra
Burchell's Zebras (Equus burchellii) are odd-toed ungulates that belong to the horse family (Family Equidae). They have black and white stripes that cover their body and a black and white mane of stiff hair that stands up along the back of their neck. They grow to a mass of 290kg-340kg (638lbs-748 lbs) and are on average 1.4m at shoulder height. An Introduction to Cats
Cats are graceful, efficient predators that belong to the Family Felidae (a family known commonly as 'felids'). Population Growth
Populations are groups of individuals belonging to the same species that live in a shared region at the same time. Feather Anatomy and Function
Feathers are a unique adaptation of birds. Feathers are made up of keratin, an insoluble protein that is also found in mammalian hair and reptilian scales. Endangered Animals (CA)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. American Moose
The American moose (Alces americanus) is the largest member of the deer family. Moose have a large, heavy body and long legs. They have a long head, flexible upper lip and nose, and large ears. Scientific Method
The scientific method consists of the following activities: (1) asking questions in the form of a hypothesis, (2) looking for patterns in observations, (3) formulating theories, and (4) designing experiments to test theories. Density Dependent
Describes a factor that influences individuals in a population to a degree that varies in response to how crowded (dense) the population is. African Elephant
The African elephant is among the largest land animals alive today. Adults grow to heights of 13 to 16 feet and weights of 4 to 7 tons. The African elephant has larger ears than the Asian elephant and its two front incisors grow into large tusks that curve forward. Glossary of Snail Terms
The following list of words highlights the terms used in this visual guide used to describe different aspects of snails. Bar-Headed Goose
The Bar-Headed Goose (Anser indicus) gets its common named from the two brownish-black bars that wrap around the back of its head. This goose has a light grey body, white on its face and neck, orange legs, and bill. Characteristics of Mammals
Characteristics of Mammals Endangered Animals (AL)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Blue Whale
The magnificent blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) is our planet's largest animal, reaching lengths of 66 to 98 feet and weights of 110 to 176 tons. Blue whales belong to the group of whales know as the baleen whales. Vertebrate Evolution
Vertebrates are well-known group animals that include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The defining characteristic of vertebrates is their backbone, a trait that showed up in the fossil record about 500 million years ago during the Ordovician period. Asiatic Elephant
The asiatic elephant (Elephas maximus) weighs between 3000 and 5000 kg and has grey or brown skin. Their ears are smaller than those of the African Elephant and the in habit scrub forests and jungles. London's Peppered Moths
Read about H.B.D. Kettlewell, an English physician with an interest in butterfly and moth collecting, who in the 1950's decided to study the unexplained color variations of the peppered moth. Endangered Animals (LA)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Snail Diet and Feeding Habits
Most terrestrial snails are herbivorous. They feed on plant material (such as leaves, stems, and soft bark), fruits, and algae. A few species of snails are scavengers, feeding on decaying animals. Some marine snails (which, keep in mind, aren't in the same group as terrestrial snails) feed on clams, fish, worms and mollusks. European Common Toad
European common toads (Bufo bufo) range in size from about 3 to 8 inches in length. Females are generally larger than males. Find out more about these gentle creatures in this species profile including locations and habitats in which they can be found, their diet, and how they are classified within the Class Amphibia. Gorilla
Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla) are the largest and strongest of all the great apes (humans, chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas and orang-utans). Marsupial Evolution
By 110 million years ago, mammals had diverged into two distinct groups: the placental mammals-a group that includes humans and most modern mammals-and the marsupial mammals-a group that includes koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and pouched mice. The Cheetah - One Strange Cat
The Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is a highly unusual cat that has numerous characteristics that set it apart from all other cats. Guide to Buying Binoculars
I was recently in the market for a new pair of binoculars and when I first started shopping around, I was bewildered by the vast number of makes and models available these days. Since I received my first pair of binoculars as a gift more than twenty years ago, I lacked experience shopping for the gadgets myself. I knew I had a lot to learn if I was going to invest my money wisely. Brief History of Life on Earth
It all began 4500 million years ago (Mya) with the Hadean Eon. That's when our solar system formed and, in that solar system, a molten Earth started to cool and take shape. Because there was no solid rock back then, we don't have a geological history of the Hadeon Eon. As soon as the Earth cooled and solid rock formed, that's when geological history began and the Hadeon Eon ended. Giant Anteater
The anteater grows to lengths of 1-2 m and reaches weights in the range of 22-39 kg. Long straw-like brown-black fur covers its body which grows to lengths of up to 40 cm on its bushy tail. Top Wildlife Headlines of 2008
The year 2008 The Anatomy of a Cell
The cell is a fundamental component of our modern definition of life and living things. The cell is regarded as the basic building block of life and is used in the elusive definition of what it means to be 'alive'. Cnidaria
Cnidarians (Phylum Cnidaria) are a group of aquatic animals that includes jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras. Classification of Cats
Cats belong to the group of vertebrates known as mammals. Within the mammals cats are classified with other meat eaters in the Order Carnivora (known commonly as 'carnivores'). Owls (Order Strigiformes)
Owls (Order Strigiformes) are a diverse group of birds that includes over 200 species. The Order Strigiformes is subdivided into two families, Family Strigidae (typical owls) and Family Tytonidae (barn owls). Marine Iguana
The marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cirstatus) is a large iguana that reaches lengths of 2ft-3ft. Ivory-Billed Woodpecker
Ivory-billed woodpecker (Campephilus principalis) is the world's second largest woodpecker. The ivory-billed woodpecker has a red crest, black and white body, and an ivory colored bill. Loggerhead Sea Turtle
The loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) is a marine turtle that grows to lengths of 28 to 39 inches. Caretta caretta is the world's largest hard-shelled turtle. Birds of Prey
Birds of prey (Order Falconiformes) include eagles, hawks, kites, the secretary bird, ospreys, and falcons. These birds have superb eyesight, strong legs and talons, a sharp, hooked bill and are adept hunters. California Sea Hare
The California Sea Hare (Aplysia californica) is among the world's largest gastropods and grows to lengths of 41cm (16in). It has ruffled flaps along its back and two pairs of antennae. New Species Discovered in Brazil's Cerrado Savanna
New Species Discovered in Brazil's Cerrado Savanna Aye-Aye
The aye-aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis) is a mammal belonging to the group of primates referred to as the prosimians. Prosimians are more primitive than monkeys and apes and, in addition to the aye-aye, include animals such as lemurs, lorises, pottos and galagos. Lava Lizard (Microlophus albemarlensis)
The lava lizard (Microlophus albemarlensis) is a native of the Galapagos Islands. Lava lizards are usually dark brown to reddish brown in color but their color can vary depending on age, sex, and location. Discoveries of New Species
Discoveries of New Species Endangered Animals (PA)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Southern Tamandua
The southern tamandua has an elongated snout and is covered by creamy yellow-brown fur. Tamaduas in the southeastern part of their range have a black patch resembling a vest that curves around the mammal's front limbs, over its shoulders and onto its back and sides. Green Poison Dart Frog
Green poison dart frogs (Dendrobates auratus) belong to a family of frogs that includes the world's most poisonous amphibians. The green poison dart frog is a vibrantly colored frog, with distinct black and green patterns (although the green color can vary quite a bit, ranging from golden to blue). Blue-Footed Booby
The blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii) is an adorable looking sea bird with bright seafoam-blue webbed feet and a blue-gray face to match. Even-Toed Ungulates
The even-toed ungulates (Order Artiodactyla) include camels, giraffes, cattle, pigs, hippoptamuses, deer, pronghorn, and peccaries. Even-toed ungulates (artiodactyls) are hoofed mammals with feet that are symmetrical around a plane of symmetry that runs between their third and fourth toes. Endangered Animals (MS)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website for the state of Mississippi. Xenarthrans
Armadillos, sloths, and anteaters belong to the Order Xenarthra, an ancient group of placental mammals that once roamed across Gondwanaland before the continents of the Southern Hemisphere separated into their present day configuration. New Order of Insects
Researchers Oliver Zompro, Niels Peder Kristensen, and Klaus-Dieter Klass have recently realized far more than the dream of discovering a new species--they have just announced the discovery a new order of insects. Endangered Animals (NC)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Endangered Mammals (US)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Why Do Fireflies Glow?
Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, glow to lure prey, discourage predators, and most importantly to attract mates. Black Rat Snake by Nicholas Segal
Black Rat Snake by Nicholas Segal Firefish
The firefish (Pterois volitans), also known as the lionfish, was first described in 1758 by Dutch naturalist Johan Frederick Gronovius. The firefish is a species of scorpionfish that has exquisite reddish brown, gold and cream yellow bands of markings on its body. It is one of eight species of the genus Pterois. Wandering Albatross
The wandering albatross (Diomedea exulans) is an oceanic bird that flies low over the sea's surface, scooping up prey such as squid, fish, and other marine animals. The wandering albatross, a name that aptly describes it's long travels, is well-adapted to lengthy, continous flight. Endangered Animals (CO)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Activity Space
The range or spectrum of environmental conditions and characteristics suitable for the normal activity of an organism. Monarch Butterfly
The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) has a black body with white spots and bright orange wings with black borders and veins (some white spots are dappled in the black wing areas too). American Bison
American bison (Bison bison) are among the largest members of the Family Bovidae, the group of animals that also includes domestic cattle, sheep, and goats as well as wild species such as antelope, and mountain goats. Feline Adapatations
Most cats have retractable claws. They extend their claws only when needed for capturing prey or for traction when running or climbing. Endangered Animals (NY)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Threats to Animals & Wildlife
Living things face a constant barrage of external stresses or threats that challenge their ability to survive and reproduce. If a species is unable to successfully cope with these threats through adaptation, they may face extinction. Przewalski's Wild Horse
Przewalski's wild horse (Equus caballus przewalskii) is a stout, pony-like horse that stands about 122cm (4ft) at the shoulders and weighs between 200kg-300kg (440lbs-660lbs). Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
Ruby-throated hummingbirds are tiny birds that grow to lengths of 75mm-90mm (3.0in-3.5in) and weights between 3.4g-3.8g (0.11oz-0.13oz). Both sexes have metallic green feathers on their back and white feathers on their belly. Males have irridescent ruby colored feathers on the throat. Shoebill
The shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) is an intriguing looking bird that inhabits central Africa. It is a massive bird, growing to heights of 3-1/2ft to 4-1/2ft tall. The shoebill is also referred to as the whale-headed stork and both of these common names reflect the distinct broad bill this bird posesses. Endangered Animals (KY)
A list of the threatened and endangered animals in the state of Kentucky (an adaptation of data from the US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website). Rhinoceros Iguana
Rhinoceros iguanas (Cyclura cornuta) grow to length of 61cm-122cm (24in-48in). Males are larger than females and develop larger horns. Characteristics of Cnidarians
Cnidarians are radially symmetrical. This means that their gastrovascular cavity, tentacles, and mouth are aligned such that if you were to draw an imaginary line through the center of their body, from the top of their tentacles through the base of their body, you could then turn the animal about that axis and it would look roughly the same at each angle in the turn. Orca
Orcas also known as killer whales, belong to the Order Cetacea, a group of marine mammals that includes whales and dolphins. Orcas bear closer relation to dolphins than to whales. The name 'killer whale' is for this reason slightly misleading and may in fact be the result of an error in translation. Snail Estivation and Hibernation
Snails are usually active in the summer, but if it gets too warm and dry for them, they enter a period of inactivity known as estivation. Wildife Photo of the Week
Wildife Photo of the Week What Is a Rain Shadow?
A rain shadow is an area of dry land that lies on the leeward (or downwind) side of a mountain. Winds carry air masses up and over the mountain range and as the air is driven upward over the mountain, falling temperatures cause the air to lose much of its moisture as precipitation. Hawksbill Sea Turtle
The hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) is a critically endangered sea turtle. Its beautifully marked carapace, marbled with yellow, amber, and brown markings, has made it the target of commercial hunting for its tortoiseshell. Common Dolphin
The common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) grows to lengths of 2.3m-3.6m (7.5ft-8.5ft) and weights of up to 80kg (175lb). Common dolphins are colorful with a characteristic hourglass-shaped pattern on their sides. Hummingbirds
The hummingbird family (Family Trochilidae) includes over 300 species of birds. The family is subdivided into two subfamilies, the hermit hummingbirds (Subfamily Phaethornithinae) and the trochilines (Subfamily Trochilinae). Scarlet Ibis
The scarlet ibis (Eudocimus ruber) is a South American wading bird that belongs to the same order as herons, spoonbills, and storks. Snow Leopard Populations
A recent study by TRAFFIC, the World Wildlife Fund and the International Snow Leopard Trust revealed a sharp decline in the snow leopard population. Evolution of Snails
The earliest known snails were similar in structure to limpets. These creatures lived in shallow sea water and fed on algae and they had a pair of gills. 'Ecology'
'Ecology' provides a sound introduction to the basic concepts of ecological science. The text uses numerous case studies and a wealth of diagrams, charts, and illustrations to support key points. Glossary of Bird Terms
This glossary is a collection of specialized words (and their definitions) used to describe all aspects of birds including their behavior, evolution, anatomy, life history, adaptation, and conservation. Northern Bottlenose Whale
The northern bottlenose whale (Hyperoodon ampullatus) is a beaked whale that has a gray body, dark brown to gray tail, and a light forehead and a small beak. baleen
Baleen is a fibrous structure in the mouths of some whales (baleen whales) that enables the whale to filter food from the water for ingestion. Baleen is composed of keratin and grows in long thin plates with brush-like, frayed edges that hang down from the animal's upper jaw. Quiz: Can You Identify These Birds?
Put your bird identification skills to the test in this quiz. Taxonomic Classification
"Hierarchical system for grouping and naming types of living organisms." (Source: Sibley) The Structure of a Forest
Mature forests often have several distinct layers including the forest floor, herb layer, shrub layer, understory, canopy, and emergents. Animal
This book is an ambitious and visually spectacular guide that will widen your understanding of the amazing animals with whom we share our planet. 'Animal' is a reference book, a picture book, and a text of incomparable breadth. Endangered Animals (OH)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Ten Facts About Coral
If you've ever visited an aquarium or gone snorkeling when on holiday, you're probably familiar with a wide variety of corals. You may even know that corals play a fundamental role in defining the structure of marine reefs, the most complex and diverse ecosystems in our planet's oceans. About Elephants' Trunks
Elephants' trunks are muscular, flexible extensions of their upper lip and nose. The tip of an African elephant's trunk has two fingerlike growths that enables them to grasp food and other small objects. How Snails Move
Terrestrial snails move using their muscular foot. By creating an undulating 'wave' motion along the length of the foot, a snail is able to push against the ground and propel its body forward, albeit slowly. Molluscs
Molluscs (Mollusca) are a highly diverse group of animals that include cephalopods (squid, octopuses, cuttlefish), gastropods (nudibranchs, snails, slugs, limpets, sea hares), bivalves (mussels, clams, oysters, scallops) and many other groups of organisms. Koala
Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) Ecological Efficiency
A measure of the amount of energy in the biomass that is produced by one trophic level and is incorporated into the biomass produced by the next (higher) trophic level. Gardening for Wildlife
Attracting wildlife to your garden is a rewarding way to learn about animals. By tailoring your garden to the needs of animals, you help to improve your local environment and foster wildlife diversity. Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
The brown bear (Ursus arctos) is among the largest and most powerful of all land carnivores. Bird Watching Tips
Identifying a bird can be challenging. So to stand the best chance of landing a name for a bird, you'll want to know what to look for - what matters most and how to spend your precious viewing time. Endangered Animals (TN)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Unusual Snail Discovered
Read about how researchers have discovered a unique snail that has metal-plated armor on its body and on the underside of its foot. This strange creature lives in the Indian Ocean near the Kairei hydrothermal vent. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park Mammalian Temperature
Does it surprise you that reindeer, who spend much time standing in snow, don't get cold feet? Likewise, dolphins, whose thin flippers glide constantly through cool water, seem to be just fine. What Is a Keystone Species?
A keystone species is a species that plays a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community and whose impact on the community is greater than would be expected based on its relative abundance or total biomass. Nene Goose
The Nene (or Hawaiian) Goose (Branta sandvicensis) is the state bird of Hawaii. The Nene in some ways resembles its closest living relative, the Canada goose (Branta canadensis) although the Nene is smaller in size, reaching lengths of 53cm-66cm (21in-26in). Galapagos Tortoise
The Galapagos tortoise (Geochelone nigra) is the largest of all living tortoises, reaching lengths of up to 4 feet and weights of over 350 lbs. Eastern Deciduous Forests
Deciduous forests once stretched from New England south to Florida and from the Atlantic Coast west to the Mississippi River. Frigatebirds (Family Fregatidae)
Frigatebirds (Family Fregatidae) are large seabirds that spend much of their time at sea (they are therefore referred to as pelagic). Endangered Animals (FL)
The following list is an adaptation of threatened and endangered species data published at the The US Fish & Wildlife Service's Endangered Species Program Website. Turtles and Tortoises
Turtles (Chelonia) are a unique group of reptiles that first appeared about 200 million years ago during the Late Triassic period. Since that time, turtles have changed little and it is quite possible that modern turtles closely resemble those that roamed the Earth during the time of the dinosaurs. Arthropod
A taxonomic group of animals that includes spiders, crabs, insects, and centipedes and whose bodies posess pairs of jointed limbs and in most cases an exoskeleton or hard exterior covering. Arthropods are the most numerous of all animal groups. Cichlids
Cichlids (Cichldae) are a highly diverse family of bony fishes (Class Osteichthyes). Their body shapes vary from species to species and include oblong (perch-like), tubular, elongated, or round (disk-like) body shapes. A number of cichlid genera are popular in the aquarium trade (angelfishes, American cichlids, jewelfishes, and discus). Meerkat
Meerkat (Suricata suricatta) African Wild Ass
The African wild ass (Equus asinus somalicus) is a subspecies of donkey (Equus asinus). The African wild ass grows to 125cm-145cm (4.2ft-5.5ft) at the shoulder and has a light grey to fawn color coat of short, sleek fur. The have large head, long ears, and their tail resembles that of a cow, with a tuft of longer black fur at the end.
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