Wildlife Univerrse

Mammals

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 16:19:00 +0300

Mammal is a large group of animals found in kingdom animalia it include individuals such as Humans, Rats, Apes, Whale, Leopards and among others;

Special features in this group, it's individual are warm blooded, they have Mammary gland which produce milk for there young individuals such as cubs, piglets etc.. to suck and get nutrients usefull to generate immunity and general growth of a young individual in group mammalia.

Why Elephants do wallowing???

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 18:36:00 +0300

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Why earth supports living things???

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 19:36:00 +0300

First of all its a great question of trying to understand as to why and how things are capable of living on earth . Components such as water and oxygen helps to allow living things to live but cannot sustain with absence of food.

Rauvoflia Caffra

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 16:39:00 +0300

Rauvolfia caffra is a tree in the family Apocynaceae. It is commonly known as the quinine tree. These trees are distributed from the Eastern Cape of South Africa to tropical Africa and are found in low-lying forests near rivers and streams, or on floodplains.

Plants

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 16:22:00 +0300

Plants produce the food they eat – a substance called glucose.

The world is a vast ecosystem – it contains a plethora of living things of different kinds, all benefiting one another. Plants are one of the most important life forms found in an ecosystem, as they help in controlling the amount of oxygen in the air through a process called photosynthesis. Moreover, plants are producers, as they provide the primary source of food in the food chain. Everything that people and other animals feed on, comes from plants in whatever way. Without them, birds, mammals, and even humans will have nothing to eat. Plants feed herbivores, and these herbivores who feed on plants are preyed upon by carnivores, and so on.

Now, if plants act as a primary source of food in a food chain, then what do plants eat? Below, we’ll take a look at what plants eat, what their food is made of, and more.

What Do Plants Eat?

Plants produce the food they eat – a substance called glucose.

©Attila Fedyk/Shutterstock.com

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Plants don’t eat food like regular living things. Instead, they make their own – a substance called glucose, through a process called photosynthesis. In this process, plants use carbon dioxide, water, and light and energy from the sun to convert them into food.

If you take a look at the dictionary, you’ll notice that the word “photosynthesis” is derived from these two terms: “photo” and “synthesis”, which refers to the word “light” and “the act of creating something”, respectively. Having a basic understanding of these root terms provides a clue on how plants obtain their nourishment.

How Do Plants Produce Food?

Photosynthesis can be divided into two stages. In the first stage, plants change sunlight energy into various types of energy that are then used in the second stage of the process, where glucose is produced.

The finished product, glucose, is a sugar substance used by plants for energy to create more substances such as starch and cellulose. Glucose is plants’ primary source of nutrition and is the main requirement for their growth. Plants eat glucose, and for later use, store them in the form of starch.

In the same way that eating sugar provides humans with energy to work and go on their day, sugar provides plants with the ability to grow and perform other critical functions.

What Make Up Plants’ Food?

Light, Chlorophyll, Water, and Carbon dioxide are important components that make up plants’ food.

©iStock.com/Olga Seifutdinova

When we make our food, we need ingredients for us to cook. Plants do so too, and when they prepare their food through photosynthesis, they require these following ingredients:

Light
Chlorophyll
Water
Carbon dioxide
Major and micro nutrients

The most important component in photosynthesis is light, which can be natural or artificial light. Unless plants receive a proper amount of light, they grow delicate and brittle. Water and fertilizers won’t be enough to help them produce their own food, as photosynthesis is only accomplished with an adequate amount of light.

Carbon dioxide, or CO2, is also vital in photosynthesis. Plants obtain carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through emissions as well as from humans’ or animals’ breath.

Chloroplasts, which are found inside plant cells, manufacture a pigment called chlorophyll in plants’ leaves and stems that is responsible for their distinctive green hue. Chlorophyll is essential in photosynthesis, as it converts sunlight into chemical energy for the plant.

Water, or H2O, is transported to the plants through their roots. The roots are mainly responsible for absorbing water and transporting major and micro nutrients to the plant, which come from the soil they are planted on.

Are Fertilizers Food for Plants?

It is common for people to mistakenly think that fertilizers are food for plants, but in reality, they are not! The fertilizers’ only job is to supply nourishment to plants to enhance their growth and development.

Plants take necessary nutrients from the soil through the roots, and fertilizers in the soil help give them additional nutrition. Fertilizers work on plants the same way vitamins and supplements help nourish our body.

What Do Plants Eat in the Ocean?

Plants receive little to no light underwater, so they need help from microscopic creatures in order to create their own food.

As light and carbon dioxide in the ocean is limited, photosynthetic processes underwater are decreased. Fortunately, small microscopic creatures called cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, assist ocean plants in making food despite the limited light and carbon dioxide.

These microorganisms have adjusted to low-light environments, and they do photosynthesis for their own benefit, as well as the benefit of other living creatures.

Having existed for billions of years, these ancient microorganisms use help from phycobiliproteins, proteins that absorb light in the ocean. Phycobiliproteins can be found buried in cyanobacteria’s outer covering.

Do Plants Eat Animals?

Carnivorous plants trap insects and eat them.

©Kuttelvaserova Stuchelova/Shutterstock.com

You may have heard about some plants who trap insects and consume them as their food. These plants are carnivorous plants, or insectivorous plants, and they eat insects or other small animals like birds, mice, or even fish.

While carnivorous plants undergo photosynthesis like their green relatives do, they also feed on animals in order to obtain necessary nutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen, calcium, and potassium. These plants devour microscopic insects in order to draw essential plant nutrients from them.

Most carnivorous plants eat insects, although some larger species eat vertebrates too. Thankfully, of all the nearly 600 species of carnivorous plants, most of them are small, and, contrary to popular belief, do not eat humans.

How Do Carnivorous Plants Eat Their Prey?

Carnivorous plants have various ways in catching their prey, but the majority of them use traps and pawns to attract their meal. Carnivorous plants attract their prey by using fragrances and colors, or even light. After piquing the attention of their prey, they grab them with their trap.

Carnivorous plants normally digest food using enzymes over a few days. However, certain types, such as pitcher plants, use microorganisms to break down their food, allowing the plant to absorb more nutrients. Carnivorous plants, in any case, do not chew their meal, but capture them to be digested later on.

Up Next:

More from A-Z Animals

What Type of Plant Are You?

12 Vegetables to Plant in April

The 10 Best Perennial Vegetables That Come Back Every Year

Which Plants Keep Copperhead Snakes Away?

How to Grow a Fig Tree: Your Complete Guide

How to Grow Cilantro: Your Complete Guide

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About the Author

Taiwo Victor

For six years, I have worked as a professional writer and editor for books, blogs, and websites, with a particular focus on animals, tech, and finance. When I'm not working, I enjoy playing video games with friends.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.

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Oceans

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 16:17:00 +0300

The world’s oceans are divided into five sections – the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, Antarctic Ocean, and the Arctic Ocean. Before the year 2000, only four oceans were recognized officially by the International Hydrographic Organization, but the entity added the Antarctic Ocean (also known as the Southern Ocean) that year.

Oceans make up 71% of the Earth’s surface, and they exclusively hold saltwater. These oceans are only home to marine creatures, and there are no oceans in the world that are the primary home to any land-dwelling animals. Every area of the world has unique and colorful species of fish, mammals, and other wildlife. The ocean is a crucial part of the world’s ecosystems, and researchers have openly admitted that approximately 80% of the oceans are still unmapped and unexplored in 2021.

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Where to Find the Ocean Animals

A bowhead whale, here breaching off the coast of western Sea of Okhotsk, can weigh up to 100 tons!

©Olga Shpak / CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons – License

Our water bodies around the world are known to be homes to diverse and unique ocean animals and other wildlife. Most wild marine creatures are spread out across the world and are known to reside in different oceans. The Pacific Ocean is home to:

Hammerhead sharks. These sharks can weigh up to 1,000 lbs., and they have one of the most distinctive bodies of any shark.
Giant squids. The Giant squid is the largest invertebrate found on Earth so far. It can grow up to 33 feet long.

In the Indian Ocean, you’ll find:

Indian river dolphins. These dolphins have terrible vision, and they primarily live in the few areas of the world with fresh water.
Goonch catfish. Typically found around India and Nepal, these fish are one of the largest types of catfish in the world.

The Arctic Ocean is known for the brisk waters that animals already have to survive in, but it still manages to contain:

Bowhead whales. The bowhead whale can weigh up to 100 tons.
Pacific walruses. This type of walrus was once considered an endangered species but was denied the classification in 2017.

The Southern Ocean, which is more commonly known as the Antarctic Ocean, is rather diverse, residing at the southernmost point of the world. It was only officially recognized by the International Hydrographic Organization in 2000. Some of the most common animals in this region include:

Cuttlefish. These fish can be kept as pets, though they have intricate needs to keep the invertebrate healthy.
Colossal squids. This squid is larger than the giant squid, and it is only found 2,000 meters below the Ocean’s surface.

The Atlantic Ocean is home to a diverse group of animals as well, including:

Blue whales. These mammals are the largest mammals to ever live in the world.
Porpoises. Looking fairly similar to a dolphin, this animal only lives for about 10 years.

These are only some of the animals that you’ll find in oceans around the world. So much of the world’s oceans have yet to be explored beyond a certain depth, so it is likely that many other animals lurk beneath the surface.

The Most Dangerous Ocean Animals

The stomach of a pufferfish can inflate up to three times its normal size. Its deadly toxins can be potentially lethal.

©iStock.com/FtLaudGirl

No matter how calm the ocean water looks at the surface, a lot can always be going on inside it. There are several dangerous animals inside the ocean at any given point in time. These include:

Pufferfish: A pufferfish might contain deadly toxins that can be severely dangerous. It can make you gravely ill and can also be potentially lethal.
Lionfish: This fish is venomous, and it is primarily found in the Caribbean.
Sea snakes: The bite of a sea snake can be fatal, which is why they are considered to be dangerous especially for anglers.
Tiger sharks: Tiger sharks are known to attack humans unprovoked and can tear out the flesh with their specially designed teeth.
Box jellyfish: The bodies of box jellyfishes have tiny darts that are loaded with poison. Once stung by them, humans and animals can experience cardiac arrest, paralysis, or even death.

Considering how much of the world’s oceans still are hidden from access (due to their depth), it is likely that many more dangerous animals are still around. Perhaps the most dangerous part of these waters is that animals may be waiting to attack if anyone decides to go beyond what is already known to scientists.

Endangered Animals

Anglerfish (Monkfish) with largemouth lurks for food on the sandy bottom of Osezaki, Japan. It is among the endangered ocean animals.

©Martin Voeller/Shutterstock.com

Despite the wildlife and ocean animals around the world being diverse and unique, there is always a threat to these animals being endangered or extinct. In fact, approximately one-third of the animals in oceans today are currently endangered. Some of these endangered animals include:

Hawksbill sea turtle
Caribbean reef fish
Starry sturgeon
Monkfish

Pollution is a major threat to marine creatures around the world. As many as one million animals are killed each year from the trash and other debris that humans leave behind in the ocean. Conservation efforts are being made by companies like Ocean Conservancy and Oceana.

As of 2015, 15 different animals have got extinct so far, including the great auk and the Caribbean monk seal. Most of the animals were never photographed, leaving researchers only to guess what they may have once looked like.

Ocean Animals: Birds

Most penguins, including Emperor penguins, inhabit the coastal shores in the southern hemisphere.

©robert mcgillivray/Shutterstock.com

While there aren’t any birds that live in the ocean, there are many different types of birds that inhabit coastal shores or spend most of their time at sea.

Types of seabirds include:

Penguins: There are 18 species of penguins, almost all of which are found in the southern hemisphere. The only exception is Galapagos penguins. Penguins live in a variety of habitats, from Galapagos penguins on tropical islands to emperor penguins in the Antarctic. Most species live somewhere in-between. They are all highly specialized for marine life.
Petrels: Petrels are pelagic birds, meaning they spend almost all of their time at sea. They only return to land for breeding. Petrels are found in all oceans. Most species reside north of New Zealand. There are four main groups of petrels; prions, shearwaters, fulmarines, and gadflys. Breeding and migration vary based on species and location.
Pelicans: Pelicans are native to all continents except Antarctica. There are eight living species of pelicans. Not all pelicans migrate, some populations stay on coasts year-round. Others migrate to warmer climates during breeding season.
Gulls and Terns: Gulls and terns are closely related and have similar lifestyles. They spend breeding seasons on coastal or offshore islands and take to the open sea during non-breeding seasons. Some species are pelagic. Terns inhabit all continents except for Antarctica, while gulls are found worldwide.

Types of Fish In The Ocean

The grass carp is one of the 5 most common fish in the ocean.

©Vladimir Wrangel/Shutterstock.com

Fish inhabit every ocean and nearly all marine habitats and oceanic zones. It is the world’s largest ecosystem, not only home to many animals but also provides food, jobs, and entertainment for humans.

One main category of animals in the ocean is fish, with an estimated 20,000 species of fish in the oceans around the world from coastal waters to the open sea.

The 5 most common fish in the ocean:

Grass Carp
Peruvian Anchoveta
Silver Carp
Common Carp
Alaska Pollock

Due to their popularity, fish can make excellent pets. There are some strict requirements, though, to make their habitat a great one, namely proper water. You can own freshwater fish or saltwater fish, with the latter the more exciting prospect. On average, be prepared to spend $1,000 to $2,000 on a medium-sized saltwater tank with all the accessories and the fish.

Some of the most popular saltwater aquarium fish:

Clownfish
Damselfish
Angelfish
Gobbys
Blue Tang

Ocean Animals: Snakes

There are many species of snakes native to the ocean, like this Banded Sea Snake.

©Rich Carey/Shutterstock.com

Most people don’t think of snakes when they picture the ocean. In fact, there are 69 species of snakes native to the ocean, almost all of which are venomous. There are two groups of sea snakes, also known as coral reef snakes; true sea snakes, and sea kraits. Sea kraits don’t have as many adaptations for marine life. The bodies of true sea snakes have evolved for a life completely in water, while sea kraits can go on land. True sea snakes even give birth in water. Sea kraits lay eggs on land.

Sea snakes are found in tropical waters between the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. Most of them live in coral reefs and estuaries. The yellow-bellied sea snake is the only species that lives in open waters away from the coasts. It is found in all oceans except for the Atlantic.

The 6 Rarest Ocean Animals

Under the ocean is the ancient-looking frilled shark, which looks and moves more like an eel.

©OpenCage / CC BY-SA 2.5 – License

The ocean is a vast space, so as you can imagine, there are many animals that live in and around the water, some all the way to the bottom, where it is dark and mysterious. There are plenty of ocean species we have yet to find, and new ones are added each year by scientists who have made wonderful discoveries.

Here are 6 of the rarest ocean animals we know to exist:

Black Swallower: This fish has the extraordinary ability to completely engulf its prey. It can swallow almost any creature twice its size and 10 times its mass because its stomach has the ability to stretch to that size. It is found in the dark depths of the ocean.
Tongue-Eating Louse: This isn’t a fish, but an unusual animal that lives inside a fish! Its job is to completely atrophy, disintegrate and destroy its host’s tongue by sucking its blood, which then replaces the tongue, with itself. That’s not a fun companion animal, is it?
Spotted Wobbegong: This animal looks more like a carpet than a shark but it is one of the rarest sharks in the world. Its flattened body and ability to blend in with its surroundings help it be a great hunter and predator, worthy of the shark classification.
Frilled Shark: This animal might give you nightmares. Under the depths of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans is this ancient-looking shark, with a body like an eel. It moves through the water much like one and bites its prey like a snake. It is also known to swallow its food whole, which often consists of squid.
Blobfish: Labeled the world’s ugliest fish, this animal lives in the deep oceans off of Australia and Tasmania. Due to the high pressure at the depth where it lives, the blobfish has very little muscle, making it look like a gelatinous mass. In all actuality, it looks more like a fish when it’s in the fish’s natural habitat, but when brought up to less depth, it turns into … well, a blob!
Dumbo Octopus: A little less scary, a dumbo octopus lives in extreme ocean depths off the coast of the Philippines, New Zealand, and Australia. It is named after the Disney elephant because of the big round “ears” it uses to help it swim. The dumbo octopus also is one of the few species of octopus that do not have an ink sac, as it has few natural predators.

The 5 Largest Ocean Animals

Giant Manta Ray can have a wingspan of close to 30 feet!

©Aaronejbull87/Shutterstock.com

The ocean can produce many large animals, with some the size of buildings! There are many species and subspecies of marine life that roam the ocean, with the buoyancy of water to help them navigate their large bodies.

Here are the top 5 largest ocean animals:

Blue Whale: The No. 1 animal on all the lists is the blue whale. That’s because it can grow up to 100 feet long and weigh up to 200 tons. A blue whale has the world’s largest lung capacity at 1,300 gallons, a tongue that can weigh as much as an elephant, and a heart that can weigh as much as an automobile at 400 pounds. Lucky for humans, it actually eats krill, up to 8,000 pounds per day!
Ocean Sunfish: This animal is the largest bony fish in the world. It can weigh between a measly 545 pounds to nearly 5,000 pounds! Fin to fin, its length is about 8 feet, though some have been discovered at 10 feet long. It is flattened laterally, and its main diet consists of small fish, fish larvae, squid, and crustaceans.
Giant Manta Ray: Another majestic ocean giant is the giant manta ray. Graceful and gentle, this animal can have a wingspan of close to 30 feet, and it mainly feeds on zooplankton. Also, the giant manta ray is very smart, possessing the largest brain of any ocean fish.
Lion’s Mane Jellyfish: The largest jelly species in the world, this animal lives in cooler waters off the coast of Washington and Alaska in the North Pacific Ocean. Its tentacles can reach up to 120 feet long! Though it has a powerful sting for its prey, it often doesn’t kill humans, only providing a very painful situation.
Giant Squid: An elusive creature, the giant squid is still a mystery to this world. It lives deep in the ocean, and most studies come from dead carcasses that wash on shore. The longest specimen recorded was 43 feet and possibly weighed about a ton. Its feeding tentacles are the longest part, which can be used to catch prey up to 33 feet away.

Sea Countries Animals Lists

Click any of the countries below to see a detailed list of animals located in that country!

Sea Animals

Adelie Penguin

Eats up to 2kg of food per day!

African Penguin

The only penguin species in Africa!

Alaskan Pollock

It's one of the most commonly eaten fish in the world

Albacore Tuna

The albacore is a very fast swimmer

Albatross

The largest wingspan of any bird in the world!

Albertonectes

The Albertonectes had the longest neck out of other Elasmosaurids.

Aldabra Giant Tortoise

One got to be 255 years old!

American Alligator

They have two sets of eyelids!

Amberjack

Amberjack can grow up to 200 pounds

American Eel

Don't eat raw eel! Their blood is poisonous to humans when consumed raw.

Anchovies

November 12th is celebrated as National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day

Angelfish

There are 70 different species!

Anglerfish

The anglerfish has a glowing lure on its head to attract unsuspecting prey

Antarctic Scale Worm

Similar in length to a rat or squirrel

Arctic Char

Arctic char is the northern-most fish; no other fish lives anywhere further north!

Atlantic Cod

One of the most popular food fishes in the world

Atlantic Salmon

These fish are known for their ability to leap and fight when hooked.

Australian Flathead Perch

This small fish fetches a high price tag, with individuals selling from $1,000 to $5,000.

Baleen Whale

“Sings” a whale song during breeding season.

Banana Eel

Named for the yellow body and brown spots that make it look like a banana.

Barnacle

Closely related to crabs and lobsters!

Barracuda

Can grow to nearly 2 meters long!

Barramundi Fish

Scale rings indicate age

Barreleye Fish (Barrel Eye)

A barreleye fish's eyes can rotate in their head to look for prey.

Basilosaurus

Basking Shark

The second biggest fish in the world!

Bass

Prized by sport fishers for their size and strength

Batfish

The batfish has a lure on its head to attract prey

Bearded Fireworm

They emit bioluminescence during their mating ritual.

Beaver

Builds a dam from sticks and leaves!

Beluga Sturgeon

The beluga sturgeon is one of the largest bony fish in the world!

Bigfin Reef Squid

Can change color through use of chromatophores

Bird

Not all birds are able to fly!

Black Marlin

Every black marlin is born as a female.

Blackfin Tuna

expensive sushi-grade tuna

Blacknose Shark

When threatened, Blacknose sharks raise their head, arch their back, and lower their pectoral fins.

Blacktip Reef Shark

They move in and out of mangrove swamps with the tides.

Blacktip Shark

One of the most commonly-encountered sharks

Bladefin Basslet

The tiny bladefin basslet belongs to the same subfamily as the giant grouper, Epinephelinae.

Blanket Octopus

Females can weigh up to 40,000 times more than their partners.

Blobfish

One of the ugliest creatures in existence!

Blue Dragon Sea Slug

They inflict a painful, venomous sting

Blue-Ringed Octopus

The blue-ringed octopus produces some of the deadliest poison in the world

Blue Shark

Blue sharks can have up to 135 pups at a time.

Blue Tang

One of the most colorful members of the genus Acanthurus

Blue Whale

The largest animal on Earth

Bluefin Tuna

The bluefin is one of the largest fish in the world

Bluefish

Bluefish are known for their "bluefish blitzes," where they chase schools of small baitfish to the surface, creating a feeding frenzy visible from the shore.

Bonefish

Bonefish have migratory habits, moving from shallow waters to deeper waters during different times of the year.

Bonito Fish

May eat squid or other small invertebrate ocean life

Bonnethead Shark

Bonnetheads are the only hammerhead sharks that use their pectoral fins to swim.

Booby

Seabirds found across the South Pacific!

Borneo Elephant

The smallest species of elephant!

Bottlenose Dolphin

Stays in groups from 15 to 2,000 in number!'

Box Jellyfish

Venomous marine animals

Boxfish

Can release a toxin from its skin

Bronze Whaler Shark

The Bronze Whaler Sharks only hunt in large groups.

Bull Shark

Unpredictable and aggressive temperament!

Bullfrog

Has loud cow-like calls!

Butterfly

There are thought to be up 17,500 species!

Butterfly Fish

There are more than 100 different species!

Caribbean Reef Shark

These sharks are a big part of ecotoursim in the Caribbean.

Catfish

There are nearly 3,000 different species!

Chain Pickerel

Chimaera

Also called ghost shark

Chinook Salmon

The Chinook salmon undertakes a long migration for the spawning season

Chinstrap Penguin

There are 7 million breeding pairs!

Chiton

Chitons are closely related to snails, oysters, and mussels because of their shared phylum

Christmas Island Red Crab

During the breeding season, roads can dangerous for cars as well as the crab. Their shells are so hard they can puncture tires.

Chromodoris Willani

Their skin is toxic

Clearnose Skate

The skate with translucent nose patches

Clownfish

Also known as the anemonefish!

Cobia Fish

It has teeth not only in its jaws but in its tongue and the roof of its mouth

Cockle

Cockles live quite long; their lifespan usually ranges from 5 to 10 years in the wild.

Coconut Crab

The largest terrestrial arthropod in the world

Codfish

Codfish are carnivorous and eat other fish, including young codfish.

Colossal Squid

Can survive eating a single fish for months

Comb Jellyfish

Cone Snail

Beautiful, but deadly!

Conger Eel

The European Conger ( Conger conger) can weigh as much as an adult human!

Cookiecutter Shark

The cookiecutter shark takes its name because it leaves a cookie-shaped bite hole in its prey.

Coral

There are more than 6000 species of coral in the world's oceans.

Crab

There are 93 different crab groups

Crappie Fish

The crappie is one of the most popular freshwater fish in North America.

Crested Penguin

Has long yellow eyebrows!

Crocodile Shark

Responsible for damaging fiber optic cables laid by AT&T in 1985

Cubera Snapper

While very intimidating, the cubera snapper also falls prey to other marine animals like barracudas, whale sharks, and moray eels.

Cuttlefish

Found throughout the world's oceans!

Decorator Crab

Recycle old decorations when they molt

Disco Clam

Can spray acidic mucus at predators

Dolphin

Can reach speeds of up to 25 mph!

Dragon Eel

Dragon eels have double jaws and two sets of razor-sharp teeth

Dragonfly

It's larvae are carnivorous!

Drum Fish

The drum fish makes a croaking sound with its swimming bladder!

Duck

Rows of tiny plates line their teeth!

Dugong

Closely related to the Manatee!

Dusky Dolphin

Communicates using whistles, squeaks and clicks!

Eagle Ray

Majestic underwater bird like fish

Eel

Eels can be a mere few inches long to 13 feet!

Eelpout

Not actually "eels"

Elephant Seal

The largest species of seal in the world!

Emperor Angelfish

One of the most beautiful fish on the planet!

Emperor Penguin

The world's largest species of penguin!

Escolar

Its system can’t metabolize wax esters, which can lead to unpleasantness for diners.

False Killer Whale

The false killer whale looks like a cross between a dolphin and orca!

Fangtooth

Has the largest teeth compared to body size of any known fish!

Feather Star

Feather stars look like flowers. They have no heart, eyes, or brain.

Fin Whale

Found throughout ocean waters worldwide!

Fish

Respire through the gills on their heads!

Flounder

A flat fish found in the Atlantic and Pacific!

Flounder Fish

There are around 240 different species of Flounder fish

Fluke Fish (summer flounder)

The chameleon of the seas!

Fly

There are more than 240,000 different species!

Flying Fish

Can glide in the air for hundreds of feet

Football Fish

The football fish is named after its unusual round or oblong shape

Freshwater Eel

Freshwater eels are actually catadromous, meaning they migrate to saltwater to spawn

Frigatebird

Found inhabiting tropical islands and coasts!

Frogfish

The frogfish can change colors, but it takes several weeks to do so

Fur Seal

Found only in the Northern Hemisphere!

Galapagos Penguin

Found around the Equator!

Galapagos Tortoise

The biggest species of tortoise in the world!

Garden Eel

Garden eel colonies are made up of hundreds to thousands of individuals.

Gentoo Penguin

Found throughout the sub-Antarctic!

Ghost Crab

Their eyestalks, which are sometimes horned, can swivel 360 degrees

Giant Clam

Can reach nearly 4ft in length!

Giant Isopod

Giant isopods are the largest group of isopods in the world

Giant Siphonophore

The giant siphonophore is longer than the largest sea mammal – the blue whale.

Giant Trevally

The largest fish in its genus

Goby Fish

Some Goby species are toxic.

Goose

There are 29 different species!

Goshawk

The goshawk is a popular choice among European falconers

Great Hammerhead Shark

Great hammerhead sharks have a 360 view because their eyes are situated on the ends of their mallet-like heads.

Great White Shark

Can grow to more than 8 meters long!

Greenland Shark

This shark has the longest lifespan of any vertebrate.

Grey Reef Shark

One of the most common shark species!

Grey Seal

One of the rarest species of seal on Earth

Grouper

Many grouper can change their sex, and it is always from female to male.

Grunion

Their whole bodies are edible

Gulper Eel

Gulper eels have a similar lifespan to humans and can live up to 85 years old. However, their age depends on their habitat and the availability of food.

Haddock

The haddock is very popular in both recreational and commercial fishing

Hagfish

Can use slime to suffocate marine predators or escape capture

Hairy Frogfish

Hairy frogfish can eat prey as large as themselves by swallowing them whole.

Halibut

The word "halibut" is comes from haly meaning "holy" and butte meaning flat fish due to its popularity on Catholic holy days.

Hammerhead Shark

Found in coastal waters around the world!

Harbor Porpoise

Surprisingly, not a dolphin!

Harbor Seal

Harbor seals can dive as deep as 1400 feet

Hardhead Catfish

The hardhead catfish has a sharp spine near its fin to inject venom

Harp Seal

The harp seal can migrate up to 3,000 miles every year

Hermit Crab

There are over 500 different species!

Herring

People enjoy the taste of the oily fish in many different ways including pickled, smoked, salted, dried and fermented.

Hook-Nosed Sea Snake

Sea snakes are the most numerous venomous reptiles on Earth.

Horn Shark

Endemic to the Californian coast!

Horse Mackerel

Got their name from a myth that other fish would ride them over great distances

Horseshoe Crab

Changed little in over 500 million years!

Humboldt Penguin

Found on the South American coast!

Humboldt Squid

The Humboldt squid can change colors to communicate

Humpback Whale

There are thought to be 80,000 left in the wild!

Ichthyosaurus

Gave birth to live young instead of laying eggs like other reptiles

Immortal Jellyfish

Excellent hitchhiker on long-trip cargo ships

Indian Palm Squirrel

Natively found in parts of India and Sri Lanka!

Insects

There are an estimated 30 million species!

Jack Crevalle

One of the biggest species in the Caranx genus

Jellyfish

Have tentacles around their mouths!

John Dory

The John Dory is often labeled one of the ugliest fish in the world and has no known relatives.

Keta Salmon

During spawning the look of the male changes. Among other things, he grows a beak called a kype that bears fangs.

Killer Whale

Typically consumes over 200 kg of food a day!

King Crab

Can have a leg span of nearly 2 meters!

King Mackerel

King Penguin

More than 2 million breeding pairs!

King Salmon

Largest of the Pacific salmon

Kingfisher

Inhabits wetlands and woodlands worldwide!

Kingklip

A delicacy in South Africa

Krill

The krill is perhaps the most important animal in the marine ecosystem!

Lamprey

Not related to the eel

Lancetfish

Lancetfish live at depths up to 6,500 feet below sea level

Lemon Shark

Leopard Seal

The world's most aggressive seal species!

Leopard Shark

Leopard Sharks have teeth with three points.

Limpet

Can change sex from male to female and back again

Lionfish

Females can release up to 15,000 eggs at a time!

Lion’s Mane Jellyfish

Though it’s a huge animal, the lifespan of the lion’s mane jellyfish is only a year.

Little Penguin

The smallest species of penguin!

Livyatan

The Livyatan had 1 to 1.2 foot long, interlocking teeth

Lobster

Have been known to reach 100 years old!

Longfin Mako Shark

Lumpfish

The lumpfish have sticky suction cups on their fins

Macaroni Penguin

Gather in colonies of up to 100,000 members!

Magellanic Penguin

Threatened by oil spills!

Mahi Mahi (Dolphin Fish)

It's called the rabbit of the ocean because it multiplies so quickly.

Man of War Jellyfish

Named for an 18th century warship

Manatee

Also known as the Sea Cow!

Mangrove Snapper

Tagging studies have found that once adults establish a habitat they typically remain there for long periods. In fact, they found that these fish can stay in one area for up to 4 years.

Manta Ray

Can grow up to 9m wide!

Megamouth Shark

Swims with its mouth open to capture prey

Milkfish

Females lay up to 5 million eggs at one time in warm, shallow and salty waters

Minke Whale

There are two recognised species!

Mojarra

The mojarra's protruding mouth allows it to sift along the seabed for food

Mola mola (Ocean Sunfish)

The ocean sunfish is the biggest bony fish in the world

Moon Jellyfish

Moon Jellies are bioluminescent, so they glow in the dark! They can also de-age!

Moray Eel

Sometimes, groupers invite moray eels to help them hunt!

Mosasaurus

The Mosasaurus was much longer than the fearsome Tyrannosaur rex.

Mullet Fish

The Striped Mullet is one of the best-known and most easily identified species, with black horizontal stripes along its body.

Nautilus

Living fossils that evolved over 500 million years ago

Neptune Grouper

The largest recorded specimen ever caught was 17" long

Northern Fur Seal

Dense underfur means they don’t need blubber to stay warm

Nudibranch

They get toxins from their prey to use it against predators.

Nurse Shark

Commonly found in Central American waters!

Oarfish

The Giant oarfish (Regalecus glesne) holds the Guinness Book of World Records for the longest bony fish in the world.

Ocean Perch

As a scorpionfish, the ocean perch has spines along its back!

Ocean Pout

Females guard their eggs for up to 3 months

Ocean Whitefish

Common around Southern California

Oceanic Whitetip Shark

Octopus

There are around 300 different species!

Oilfish

They live in deep water as far as 2,600 feet below the water’s surface.

Olive Sea Snake

Olive sea snakes can stay underwater for two hours without taking a breath.

Opah

Opah are brightly colored, with red-orange fins and a silvery body.

Orange Roughy

One of the oldest commercially harvested fish

Ostracod

Oldest and most common extant crustaceans

Oyster

Can process up to 10 litres of water an hour!

Oyster Toadfish

The oyster toadfish can produce poison to protect itself

Pacific Sleeper Shark

In 2015, a Pacific Sleeper Shark was filmed living underneath an active volcano near the Solomon Islands. This shark is able to survive in waters with very high temperatures and acidity!

Parrotfish

The parrotfish can change from female to male at some point in its life.

Penguin

Spends 75% of it's time hunting for food!

Peppermint Angelfish

The peppermint angelfish was only first described in 1992.

Pink Salmon

The smallest of the North American salmon

Pipefish

The male pipefish has the ability to carry fertilized eggs with him

Platybelodon

Plesiosaur

Plesiosaur had a short tail and an extremely long neck

Polar Bear

Could be extinct within the next 30 years!

Pollock Fish

Pollock is a nutritious fish, generally readily available for human consumption, and more sustainable and affordable than other whitefish species like hake or haddock.

Pompano Fish

They are bottom-feeders

Porbeagle Shark

The porbeagle is one of the few sharks that jumps out of the water

Porcupinefish

The Porcupinefish secrete a potent neurotoxin known as tetrodotoxin; this poison can kill both people and predators.

Prawn

Closely related to crabs and lobsters!

Pufferfish

The second most poisonous creature in the world!

Puffin

Can remain in the water for up to 2 minutes!

Pygmy Shark

Pygmy sharks underbelly glows to attract prey that swims beneath it.

Quahog Clam

Their hinged shell protects their soft body

Red Drum Fish

There were a few sightings of red drums in the Mediterranean Sea off Sicily and Israel, but they do not naturally occur there, so theories are they escaped from fish farms.

Reef Shark

Grey reef sharks can give birth without males

Reindeer

Also known as the Caribou

Rock Crab

Males will fight each other to get to females.

Rockfish

These fish can grow up to three feet long!

Rockhopper Penguin

There are 3 different species!

Royal Penguin

Can reach speeds of 20mph!

Sailfish

Fast billfish with a sail-like dorsal fin

Salmon

Returns upstream every year to spawn

Salmon Shark

Salmon sharks are related to Great Whites.

Sand Dollar

Sand Dollar skeletons make popular collection items for seashell collectors.

Sand Tiger Shark

The sand tiger is the shark most commonly seen in aquariums.

Sandworm

Legs also function as gills

Sardines

Schools of sardines can be miles long and are often visible from an airplane

Sawfish

Sawfish teeth keep growing as the fish gets older

Scallops

Scallops begin their lives by attaching to sea grass on the ocean floor.

Scorpion Fish

There are more than 200 recognised species!

Sea Anemone

Creatures have characteristics of both animal and plant

Sea Dragon

Inhabits tropical coastal waters of Australia!

Sea Eagle

The sea eagle tends to mate for life with a single partner

Sea Lion

It's flippers allow it to walk on the land

Sea Otter

Eats over 40 different marine species!

Sea Slug

All sea slugs have both male and female sex organs

Sea Snake

The sea snake is incredibly venomous, even more than a cobra!”

Sea Spider

These animals breathe through their legs

Sea Squirt

There are more than 3,000 known species!

Sea Turtle

Always return to the same beach to lay eggs!

Sea Urchin

Can live for up to 200 years!

Seagull

Some gulls are capable of using tools

Seahorse

Males give birth to up to 1,000 offspring!

Seal

There are 30 different species worldwide!

Sei Whale

This whale is one of the fastest of the cetaceans

Shark

No shark species has any bones in their bodies

Shortfin Mako Shark

Shortfin Mako sharks can jump 20 feet above the water!”

Shrimp

There are 2,000 different species worldwide!

Silky Shark

Has an extremely acute sense of hearing

Sixgill shark

The sixgill shark has six pairs of gills instead of the normal five

Skipjack Tuna

The skipjack is the most commonly caught tuna in the world

Sleeper Shark

The Greenland shark is one of the longest living vertebrates in the world.

Smooth Hammerhead Shark

Congregate in large groups during annual migrations

Snail

There are nearly 1,000 different species!

Snailfish

The deepest ocean-dweller is a snailfish who was found over 26,700 feet below sea level.

Snook Fish

Males change into females after the spawning season

Snow Crab

Snow crabs communicate with each other by waving or drumming their pincers.

Snowy Owl

One of the largest owl species in the world!

Sockeye Salmon

Called "red salmon" because their skin turns bright red to dirty red during spawning season

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish mackerel typically live to the age of 12, but there have been cases of these fish living as long as 25 years!

Speckled Trout

Speckled trout are not actually a species of trout.

Sperm Whale

Each tooth weighs 1kg!

Spinner Shark

Can have up to 20 babies

Spiny Dogfish

Found in ocean waters worldwide!

Sponge

There are more than 9,000 known species!

Squid

Some species are known to have 10 arms!

Squirrelfish

Uses vibrations to communicate with other fish

Starfish

Has 2 stomachs to aid digestion!

Stargazer Fish

Uses an electric shock to stun its prey!

Steller’s Sea Cow

Hunted to extinction in 17 years!

Stingray

It's stinger is razor-sharp or serrated!

Stone Crab

Females can lay up to a million eggs in one sitting

Stonefish

The most venomous fish in the world

Stoplight Loosejaw

Emit red light to hunt via bioluminescent photophores

Strawberry Hermit Crab

When strawberry hermit crabs find shells that are larger than their own, they gather in a line from biggest to smallest. Once the biggest one sheds its shell, the next one in line will claim it, which is repeated down the line.

Sturgeon

Large species can swallow whole salmon

Surgeonfish

Paracanthurus hepatus, the palette surgeonfish or bluetang, is the only member of its genus

Swordfish

Lose their scales and teeth as adults

Tang

Found around shallow coral reefs!

Tarpon

Its genus dates back to the Cretaceous period – 113 million years ago

Telescope Fish

Swallows food, much of it larger than them, whole

Thornback Ray

The skate with the biggest spines!

Thresher Shark

Thresher Sharks have a distinctive, thresher-like tail.

Tiger Salamander

Found across the North American wetlands!

Tiger Shark

The fourth biggest species of shark in the world!

Toadfish

Can be heard out of water

Triggerfish

There are 40 species of Triggerfish, all with different coloring and patterns.

Tropicbird

Nests on tropical islands and cliffs!

Tuna

The tuna has a sleek body that enables it to swim quickly through the water

Turtles

Some species of aquatic turtles can get up to 70 percent of their oxygen through their butt.

Vampire Crab

Vampire crabs do not depend on saltwater for their development; instead, they live near freshwater rivers and in forests amongst rocks and dense vegetation.

Vaquita

Smallest cetacean in the ocean

Viper Shark (dogfish)

Most data on these fish is based on observations near Japan.

Viperfish

Viperfish have a bioluminescent spine on their dorsal fin.

Volcano Snail

The volcano snail lives comfortably in temperatures of up to 750 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wahoo Fish

Wahoo can change colors when they're excited and while they hunt

Walrus

Inhabits the freezing waters of the Arctic Circle!

Wandering Albatross

Featured in “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner”

Whale Shark

The largest species of fish in the world!

White Marlin

speedy open ocean billfish

White Shark

White Sharks live in all of the world's oceans.

Whiting

"Whiting" can refer to certain other species of ray-finned fish

Wolf Eel

Wolf Eels may become tame and interact with human in areas where people frequently dive.

Wolffish

The wolffish has impressive canines with a powerful bite force!

Woolly Mammoth

Tusks grew to 16ft long!

Wrasse

There are more than 500 different species!

Wrought Iron Butterflyfish

Is endemic to Japan.

Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake

Sea snakes spend approximately 90% of their lives under water.

Yellow-Eyed Penguin

The rarest species of penguin!

Yellowfin Tuna

The yellowfin forms schools with other tuna species

Yellowtail Snapper

Fast moving ocean fish with a long yellow stripe.

Yeti Crab

The yeti crab has hairy arms, which collect bacteria to feed on

Zebra Mussels

A female zebra mussel can deposit 30,000 to 1,000,000 eggs each year!

Zebra Shark

Can get to be 30 years old in the wild!

Sea Animals List

About the Author

Bethany McKay

Bethany is a professional copywriter and editor, working with newspapers, small businesses, Fortune 500 companies, and everything in-between. She graduated from Penn State University with degrees in journalism and international studies. She loves her cat, Maggie, and has had numerous pets over the years, including guinea pigs, hermit crabs, fish, and a red-eared slider turtle. She lives among farmlands in southcentral PA and enjoys gardening, cooking, reading, and sewing.

Ocean FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are the most common animals in the oceans?

Some of the most common marine creatures include whale sharks, sharks, catfishes, jellyfishes, sea snakes, sea horses, fish, and sea turtles. However, the world is filled with unexplored territories, so it is possible that many more animals exist that could outnumber the species that researchers have already discovered.
Of the animals that researchers know about, approximately 15 animals have gone extinct.

Where was the largest wave ever surfed?

The largest wave ever surfed measured 86ft in height and was ridden by a man named Sebastian Steudtner from Germany. The record was set in October 2020 in Praia do Norte in Nazaré, Portugal.

What lives at the bottom of the ocean?

Creatures that live at the bottom of the ocean include tripod fish, rattail fish, sea cucumbers, octopuses, snailfish, zombie worms, dragonfish, goblin shark, pelican eels and more!

Islands

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 16:12:00 +0300

A group of islands near a coastline.

Islands are some of the most beautiful places around the world since they are surrounded by water. These landmasses have great sunrises and sunsets and the potential for all sorts of time away from others. Although we might think of small landmasses when considering islands, the truth is that the largest islands in the world are quite sizable and contain a lot of the world’s population. Take a look at the 15 largest islands in the world and see how large they are, where they are located, and the population that lives on them.

What Is an Island?

An island is an area of land that is surrounded entirely by water. That definition is quite simple to understand, but it comes with some caveats.

What Is Not Considered an Island (For Our Purposes)

Islands are outside continental landmasses.

©Viacheslav Lopatin/Shutterstock.com

An island is not a continental landmass. After all, the major continental landmasses of Oceania, the Americas, or Afro-Eurasia are much larger than and particular island on its own. That is why we are going to separate the list and only look at islands that are nations rather than continents.

However, the largest landmasses would be the following in order:

Afro-Eurasia
Americas
Antarctica
Australia (the other portions of Oceania would be absorbed into the Afro-Eurasia)

With that settled, we can now take a close look at the largest islands that exist around the world today.

The 15 Largest Islands in the World

A group of islands near a coastline.

©Ajan Alen/Shutterstock.com

The islands on this list range from 42,458 miles (about the size of Mississippi) to 822,720 miles (larger than Alaska). In addition, you might be surprised how populated some of these islands are. One even has close to 150 million people on it! Let’s dive in to each island from 15th largest to first.

15. Luzon

Luzon is a highly populated island

©Anna ART/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
42,458	Philippines	64,260,312

The island of Luzon is the largest one in all of the Philippines. This is also the most populous island in the entire nation, and it’s part of a major island group that includes many people and ethnic groups. This island is the fourth most populous one in the world, and it has many cities including the capital city of Manila. The island is located in Southeast Asia.

14. North Island

North Island is the northern half of New Zealand

©ian woolcock/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
43,082	New Zealand	3,925,000

Te Ika-a-Maui is the official name of the North Island in New Zealand. The nation is split into two large islands and then several hundred smaller ones. Despite being smaller than the South Island by a fair margin, this island houses many more people compared to the other. New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, is located on this island along with several other cities and urban areas.

13. Java

Java is the most populous island in the entire world

©real Denis Feldmann/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
53,589	Indonesia	147,795,436

The Indonesian island called Java is the island with the greatest population with over 140 million people calling this area home. The island is home to over 50% of the country’s entire population. Java is home to volcanoes, lush forests, and plains, making it ecologically unique. The island is a cultural and religious melting pot that features people with many beliefs such as Buddhism, Shaivism, and Islam.

12. South Island

South Island is just a portion of New Zealand

©Nokuro/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
56,308	New Zealand	1,196,000

The South Island of New Zealand is larger than the North Island, but it is not nearly as populous. The official name of this island is Te Waipounamu. This island is a popular tourist attraction owing to the amazing ski areas and its settings in the Lord of the Rings series. The island is filled with national parks and protected areas that are beautiful or culturally significant.

11. Sulawesi

Sulawesi is one of several large islands comprising Indonesia

©krisbiantoandy/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
69,761	Indonesia	19,896,951

Sulawesi is one of the four Greater Sunda Islands that are located in Indonesia. This island is highly populated with over 19 million people living throughout the land. The land is home to Mount Tongkoko, a volcano, a volcano that has been dormant for centuries. The island continues to gain new citizens and contains about 7% of the population of Indonesia.

10. Ellesmere Island

As of 2020, Ellesmere Island is home to the geomagnetic North Pole

©iStock.com/1127470616

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
75,767	Canada	191

Canada’s Ellesmere Island is the island located furthest north in the country. Although it is the 10^th largest island in the world, it’s only slightly smaller than Great Britain. Although it’s quite large, the island is only home to about 200 people due to its harsh environment. The northernmost settlement in the world is called Alert, and it’s located on this island although it is not used as a military base any longer.

9. Great Britain

Great Britain is the largest portion of the United Kingdom

©RobertWade3003/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
80,823	U.K.	60,800,000

Great Britain is a large and highly populated island that is located off the northwest coast of continental Europe that houses most the United Kingdom. This island is believed to have been connected to continental Europe until about 8,000 -10,000 years ago. Great Britain is the world’s third most populous island in existence today, and its population is still on the rise.

8. Victoria Island

Victoria Island is named for Queen Victoria

©Andrew Harvey / Creative Commons – License

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
83,897	Canada	2,162

Victoria Island is another large island that is located in Canada. Like Ellesmere Island, this one is very sparsely populated with only 2,162 people living on it. The island was named for Queen Victoria, and it’s somewhat shaped like a maple leaf, a symbol for Canada. The island is very far north in the Arctic Archipelago, and it’s close to the Northwest Territories of Canada.

7. Honshu

Honshu is home to many major cities, including Tokyo

©Phuong D. Nguyen/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
87,200	Japan	104,000,000

Honshu is the island in Japan with the highest population of people, totaling over 100 million individuals and over 80 percent of the total population. Honshu is home to Tokyo as well as many other large cities and prefectures. The area is known for its amazing infrastructure that allows so many people to live and thrive in the area. Also, the island is getting bigger due to land reclamation projects happening.

6. Sumatra

The rainforests in Sumatra are home to many endangered species

©Syukri Erwin/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
171,068	Indonesia	58,557,000

The island of Sumatra is another large island located in Indonesia. The island is interesting because of its amazing rainforests and unique animal species like the Sumatran Tiger and Sumatran Elephant. Unfortunately, this area has undergone severe deforestation that has led to many animal species becoming extinct in recent years.

5. Baffin Island

Canada’s Baffin Island is home to dangerous polar bears

©Wildnerdpix/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
195,928	Canada	13,148

Baffin Island is the largest island in Canada, and it’s very far north. This island is home to many polar bears and ringed seals as well as nesting birds. The island is also home to people that work on the island in places such as iron mines. The small population of people on the island, just 13,000, is mostly Inuit individuals.

4. Madagascar

Madagascar is the largest island in Africa

©Vaclav Sebek/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
226,658	Madagascar is its own nation	27,690,000

Madagascar is an island off the east coast of Africa’s Mozambique. The large island is home to over 27 million people. This land has many different geological areas that include mountains, plains, lowlands, marshes, and more. The island is home to many plants and animals, some that are found in a few other places in the world. However, the island is facing severe environmental problems in the form of flooding, erosion, and pollution.

3. Borneo

Borneo is home to the oldest rainforests in the world

©BorneoRimbawan/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
288,869	Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei	23,720,000

Borneo is a very interesting country because it is divided into space into three different countries. Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia each own part of this island. As such, the area is very diverse in terms of social and cultural elements. The island contains some of the oldest rainforests in the entire world, and those rainforests are home to many animals like the Bornean orangutan. The biodiversity of Borneo is simply immense, and many species of plants and animals thrive on this island.

2. New Guinea

Indonesia and Papua New Guinea control part of the New Guinea island

©Strelyuk/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
303,381	Indonesia and Papua New Guinea	14,800,000

The island of New Guinea is also divided between two countries. Namely, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea each control roughly half of the island. This island is the second-largest one in the entire world, and it has a large population to match with some 14 million people living here. New Guinea has incredible biodiversity as well as unique settlements of people living on it.

1. Greenland

Denmark has made Greenland a province

©Kim Ries Jensen/Shutterstock.com

Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
822,700	Island province of Denmark	56,732

Greenland is the largest island in the entire world. Although it’s the biggest island, it technically belongs to a much smaller country, Denmark. Despite the size difference, Greenland has fewer people than Denmark with 56,000 people compared with Denmark’s 5.8 million people. With their sizes combined, Greenland helps diminutive Denmark rank twelfth for the largest country in the world.

How Many People Live on Islands in the World?

Java is the most populated island in the world.

©Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock.com

About 730 million people, over 10% of the world’s population, currently live on islands. Although some people might think that islands are small or sparsely populated, the truth is that they are widely populated by many people.

Java is the most populated island in the entire world, with a population that exceeds 147 million people despite the island only being the 13^th largest island in the world. That should give you some insight into how large the island is and how many people live in a relatively small space.

A List of the Largest Islands in the World

Here is a list of the largest islands in the world:

Rank	Island	Area (Square Miles)	Location	Population
1	Greenland	822,700	Province of Denmark	56,732
2	New Guinea	303,381	Indonesia and Papua New Guinea	14,800,000
3	Borneo	288,869	Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei	23,720,000
4	Madagascar	226,658	Madagascar	27,690,000
5	Baffin Island	195,928	Canada	13,148
6	Sumatra	171,068	Indonesia	55,557,000
7	Honshu	87,200	Japan	104,000,000
8	Victoria Island	83,897	Canada	2,162
9	Great Britain	80,823	U.K.	60,800,000
10	Ellesmere Island	75,767	Canada	191
11	Sulawesi	68,761	Indonesia	19,896,951
12	South Island	56,308	New Zealand	1,196,000
13	Java	53,589	Indonesia	147,795,436
14	North Island	43,082	New Zealand	3,925,000
15	Luzon	42,458	Philippines	64,260,312

Final Thoughts on the Largest Island in the World

Greenland is the largest island in the world but has a mere fraction the world’s total island population.

©Beata Tabak/Shutterstock.com

Greenland is the largest island in the world, but it’s sparsely populated compared to many other islands that exist. With a mere 56,000 people living in this province of Denmark and over 147 million living on Java, it’s clear that size isn’t the only indicator of an island’s significance.

All in all, even though these islands are very large, they pale in comparison to the size of other major landmasses. That just shows how very large the Earth is and how much of the area humans have to live in.

Up Next:

More from A-Z Animals

10 Most Dangerous Islands in the World

7 Islands That No One Can Visit

No One Lives Here: 10 Uninhabited Islands From Across the World

8 Islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean

3 Unclaimed Islands from Across the World

Discover the Most Grizzly Bear Infested Island on Earth

The Featured Image

Island

About the Author

Kyle Glatz

I've been a freelance writer since 2013, and I've written in a variety of niches such as managed service providers, animals, and retail distribution. I graduated from Rowan University in 2014. When I'm not working, I enjoy playing video games, reading, and writing for fun.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are the most beautiful islands in the world?

Some of the most beautiful islands in the world include:

Bora Bora: An island where coral reefs form a barrier and create a crystalline lagoon. Bora Bora is famous for its huts that sit directly on the water.
Vancouver Island: Home to two resident pods of orca whales and the densest concentration of cougars in the world.
Palawan: A Philippine island that’s home to a large underground river and many coral reefs, sandy beaches, and diverse ecoregions.

What are the most remote islands in the world?

The most remote inhabited island in the world is generally considered to be Tristan Da Cunha in the Atlantic Ocean. Other remote islands include the Cocos Islands, Easter Island, and Desolation Island.

What is the largest island in the United States?

The largest island in the United States is Hawaii Island, or ‘The Big Island.’ Following Hawaii Island is Kodiak Island in Alaska and Puerto Rico.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.

See a Gator Bite an Electric Eel With 860 Volts

Written by Angie Menjivar

Updated: April 14, 2023

Maybe you’ve accidentally (or mischievously) tinkered with some low-voltage items like batteries or even an electric dog collar. The jolt you feel is frightening but not deadly. Consider a 9-volt battery. It’s often found in homes and can power toys and other electronic items. Now, consider what 860 volts could power. That’s how much power an electric eel can generate!

Typically, alligators are feared in the wild. They can easily grow to thirteen feet long and weigh over 1,000 lbs. When they’re in the water, they can swim up to 20 miles per hour with their tails serving as their propellers. When their mouths open up to chomp down on prey, it’s highly unlikely the prey can fight back — or get away.

This video explains that electric eels aren’t actually eels. They’re part of the knife fish family and are more closely related to a catfish or carp than a traditional eel. Electrophorus volti can produce up to 860 volts of power, allowing them to stun and kill their prey. The video goes on to explain how the eel’s body is capable of producing such strong currents of electricity.

Electrophorus volti can produce up to 860 volts of power, allowing them to stun and kill their prey.

©Cuson/Shutterstock.com

The eel can magnify the electric charge it produces by slithering up and out of the water, pressing its chin against whatever creature has sparked its interest, be it a human or alligator, or something else. The video shows a German shepherd trying to take a bite out of an electric eel on a dirt trail just outside the water. The poor dog squeals and whimpers as it walks away, recovering and humiliated.

Then, the part you’ve been waiting for: the electric eel vs. the Amazon caiman. Sometimes, the warning pulses of the electric eel keep alligators from attempting an attack. They stop, convulsing for a few seconds, then gather themselves and retreat from this high-voltage creature.

However, there are instances when the Amazon caiman decides to take a bite out of an electric eel — that’s the kind of decision that calls for immediate regret. You watch as an alligator does just that; bites first and asks questions later. The alligator’s jaw locks shut on the electric eel, and they get stuck in a shocking stalemate.

With its jaw locked shut on the electrifying eel, the alligator’s muscles spasm wildly until its heart eventually stops. It doesn’t even get its last meal.

Watch as this electrifying eel triumphantly takes on a huge alligator.

Is It Normal Behavior For An Electric Eel to Kill Predators?

No human to date has officially been declared to have been killed by an electric eel, though there are unofficial reports that they have caused humans to drown or caused their hearts to stop through their powerful shocks. These eels do kill predators in the wild. In fact, as the video discusses, a recent research expedition in the Amazon region of Venezuela revealed a shocking fact. Electric eels actually hunt in packs and use teamwork to deliver super-charged shocks to subdue prey. Up to 100 eels at a time will encircle their victim and repeatedly shock them with massive amounts of electrical charge.

But how effective is a lone eel? The subspecies Electrophorus voltai has the capability to generate 860 volts of electricity. This amount of charge can kill an animal the size of a horse. This is no laughing matter. However, there aren’t many records of the electric eel in action.

Up Next:

More from A-Z Animals

What’s the Biggest Alligator Ever Found in the Mississippi River?

Huge Florida Gator Eats a Smaller Florida Gator in Most Florida Video Ever

Are There Alligators in the Mississippi River?

Watch an Alligator Prepare to Attack a Bird Only to Be Eaten by Another Alligator Twice Its Size

Can Crocodiles and Alligators Mate?

Discover Why Alligators Won’t Cross Georgia’s “Fall Line”

The Featured Image

About the Author

Angie Menjivar

Angie is a writer with over 10 years of experience developing content for product and brand reviews, focusing much of her time on animals of all types. A cat owner herself, she enjoys writing articles on beloved pets that both inform and entertain her audience

Africa

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 16:00:00 +0300

Africa has several different types of habitats from jungles and forests to grasslands and deserts. The second-largest continent after Asia, it is home to many beautiful and dangerous animals of various sizes, both diurnal andThese include mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects, with many being unique to Africa. Because of its biodiversity, it is a popular location for animal researchers as well as safari enthusiasts. It contains over 1,100 different mammal species, plus over 60 carnivore species, 100,000 insect species, 3,000 freshwater fish species, and over 2,600 bird species. Its populations of insects comprise 15-20% of all insects in the world.

Watch on YouTube

The Official National Animals of Africa

Since Africa is made up of several countries containing their own culture and languages, as well as different types of habitats, there aren’t official African animals that represent the entire continent. Hence, each country has its own official national animal, with some countries having more than one national animal or sharing the same national animal as that of other countries.

The Oryx is the National Animal of Namibia

©WOLF AVNI/Shutterstock.com

National animals are often categorized according to type, especially if a country has more than one. For example, the Leopard is the official national animal (land mammal) of both Rwanda and Somalia, while the American Fish Eagle is the national bird of Namibia and Zambia, and the Oryx is the national animal of Namibia. South Africa’s official national animal is the Springbok, its national bird is the Blue Crane, and its national fish is the Galjoen.

The Top African Wildlife

The top wild African animals are those that people most often seek out in safaris, with many being animals native to Africa. These safari animals are housed in national parks, game reserves, and other sanctuaries for both human safety as well as to avoid their becoming part of extinct animals in Africa. Among the best-known African animals are the “Big Five” which are the Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhinoceros, and Buffalo.

What makes these five animals so popular is the fact they have historically been the most hunted African animals by professional hunters and poachers alike. All five are known to be dangerous and challenging to track. Black rhinos are one of the most elusive animals of the Big Five and are also the rarest. Poachers have hunted them to near extinction, believing their horns have medicinal properties. Only 5,000 of them remain in the wild, so it is a treat indeed to spot one. Cape buffalos are the most dangerous of the mix due to their unpredictability. Leopards are a rare sight because they are nocturnal, and also run away when they sense or see humans near them. Lions are camouflaged by the tall savannah grasses when they are hunting prey by day, so are challenging to spot by the untrained eye. And elephants have been hunted for their ivory tusks to the point of being critically endangered. They are also the largest land mammals on the planet, which lends to their popularity.

Rhinos are one of the “Big Five” African Land Animals

©Henk Bogaard/Shutterstock.com

All of the Big Five animals can be seen in South Africa and are native animals:

Lion: Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park bordering South Africa, Namibia and Botswana; Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park during the wildebeest migration.
Leopard: South Africa’s Sabi Sands Game Reserve and Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park.
Elephant: Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park and Botswana’s Chobe National Park.
Rhinoceros: White Rhinos in South Africa’s Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park and Kruger National Park; Black Rhinos in Namibia’s Etosha National Park and Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Buffalo: Tanzania’s Katavi National Park and Botswana’s Chobe National Park.

Finding Top Wild African Animals

If you are planning a special trip to view Africa’s diverse variety of wildlife, the question of where to travel to view them is an important one to ask. There are particular areas of Africa that are very popular as African safari destinations. These countries/areas include:

Botswana – It has a variety of national parks and a modern approach to wildlife conservation.
Kenya – Probably the most popular country to visit for safaris with 25 national parks, 16 national reserves, 6 marine parks and reserves, and more.
Malawai – Though a very small country, it houses Lake Malawi National Park, which covers about a third of the country. This biodiverse lake region features 200 mammal species (including big cats, elephants, hippos, monkeys, and more), 650 species of bird, and over 5,500 plants.
Namibia – It’s one of the least populated countries in the world, but has 12 national parks, plus other reserves and protected areas one can explore.
Rwanda – Besides offering many opportunities to view the Big 5, there are 10 habituated gorilla families in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Tours allow groups of 8 to view these gorillas in their habitat, which is a life-changing experience.
South Africa – It’s one of the most affordable destinations for safaris due to the development of major city hubs like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. Tourists can find cheaper accommodations and touring packages.
Tanzania – This country ranks only 2nd to Kenya in popularity due to its 16 national parks, 3 game reserves, and 2 marine reserves. One can also witness the famous wildebeest migration.
Uganda – It’s home to 365 mammal species, 1100 bird species, and Africa’s tallest mountain range. Tourists can also view the largest free-standing volcano in the world, the second-largest freshwater lake, and the headwaters of the world’s longest river.
Zambia – This country is increasing in popularity because of conservation efforts, improvement in its economy and infrastructure, and its beautiful 20 national parks.
Zimbabwe – While its reputation was tarnished by the dictator Robert Mugabe since he was ousted in 2017, tourism has improved in this country. It’s home to Victoria Falls, as well as up to 100 species of mammals (including endangered Cape wild dogs) and 400 species of birds.

Zebras are found in the Serengeti or Masai Mara region

The Best Locations by Animal:

Giraffe: Masai giraffes in the Serengeti region; Rothschild’s giraffe in Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park.
Cheetah: Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and Namibia’s Okonjima Game Reserve.
Hippopotamus: Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park and the Okavango Delta in Botswana.
Crocodile: Nile crocodiles can be seen in the Mara River of East Africa during the annual migration of wildebeests and zebras.
Zebra: The Serengeti region or the Masai Mara during migration season; Grévy’s Zebra in northern Kenya’s Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
Wild Dog: Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park, South Africa’s Madikwe Game Reserve, and Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park.

The Most Dangerous African Animals Today

Land animals in Africa are popular attractions for safari enthusiasts, although they are not always treated with caution and respect. Many dangerous African animals are among the most dangerous in the world after human beings, whether hostile or poisonous. It’s of the utmost importance to research the most reputable safaris so that your safety is relatively sure. In general, it’s rare to go get injured on an African safari, though possible–the chances are roughly 1 in 80,000. While elephants and hippos are considered the most dangerous, lions and leopards are also animals to be cautious of when touring.

The riskiest type of activity is the walking safari. You should only go out with a trained guide, who may or may not be armed. If he is not, it is typical for an armed park ranger to also be present. If the guide seems unprofessional, it is advisable to back out of the excursion.

Fortunately, the most dangerous African animals can be safely seen in national parks and game reserves. The top 10 most dangerous African animals and their estimated number of human deaths per year are:

Hippos are highly aggressive and unpredictable, and often charge other animals or even humans.

©iStock.com/mesut zengin

Mosquito: Causes diseases including Malaria, Yellow Fever, Zeka Virus, West Nile Virus, and Dengue Fever; 1,000,000 deaths.
Hippopotamus: Territorial and weighs up to 1,500kg, making it the third-largest animal after the elephant and rhino; 3,000 deaths.
African Elephant: Largest land animal; weighs up to 7,000kg and is unpredictable; tramples victims; 500 deaths.
Nile Crocodile: Aggressive, fatal attacks; 300 deaths.
Lion: Apex predator; kills locals during their daily lives or on the fringes of game reserves; 200 deaths.
Cape Buffalo: Nicknamed “widowmaker” and “black death”; fearless, aggressive, and unpredictable; will stalk and kill humans if alone; tramples and gores victims to death; weighs up to 1,000kg; 200 deaths.
Great White Shark: Most aggressive shark towards humans; charges at prey up to 40km an hour before taking a large bite; humans die from blood loss in 20 percent of cases; 2 deaths.
Rhinoceros: Weighs up to 2,800kg and second largest animal after the elephant; irritable, and charges with long, sharp horns up to 64km an hour when threatened; unknown.
Puff Adder: Not the most venomous snake but causes the most fatalities due to its wide habitat range, camouflage colors, and aggressiveness; 20 percent fatality rate from untreated bites; unknown.
Black Mamba: Largest venomous snake in Africa, growing up to 2.5m; one of the world’s fastest snakes, moving at 20km an hour; highly aggressive; one of the most venomous snakes in the world with a 100% fatality for untreated bites; unknown.

Endangered Animals In Africa

An African Wild Dog at Savuti, Chobe National Park, Botswana.

©Derek Keats / Flickr

Several species are endangered or vulnerable due to hunting and poaching, particularly large and dangerous animals which are prized as trophies. Endangered animals in Africa include the Black Rhino, White Rhino, Rothschild’s Giraffe, Grévy’s Zebra, (African) Wild Dog, Grey Crowned Crane, and Okapi. Additionally, the Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, and African Forest elephants are vulnerable species.

Bringing these animals back from the point of extinction can be a very difficult process. For example, the Cross River gorilla, a subspecies of the Western gorilla which inhabits the border region in Cameroon and Nigeria, went down to a population 200-300. Female Cross River gorillas only breed 3-4 times in their lifespan and give birth an average of every 4-6 years. This makes their recovery long and tedious, and their protection from poachers and other factors is all-important.

Birds in Africa

There are many different types of birds in Africa. In fact, there are 2,341 species of native African birds, and 25 of those species are endemic, meaning you can’t find them anywhere else. Some of the most exotic African birds include the lilac breasted roller, brown snake eagle, Cape Glossy starling, marabou stork, and the African white backed vulture.

Ostriches are one of the most popular birds to view in Africa. This group was pictured in Kgalagadi, South Africa.

©bruna-nature/Shutterstock.com

You can find birds all over the African continent. A few iconic species include:

Shoebill: These massive birds are found in swamps and wetlands of Central and East Africa. Shoebills don’t migrate and spend their days hunting in papyrus swamps. You can find them in the Bangweulu Wetlands in northeastern Zambia.
Guinea fowl: There are 6 species of guinea fowl in Africa. They are found across the continent in a variety of habitats.
Secretary bird: Found in sub-Saharan Africa, these birds of prey prefer to hunt on the ground. It is common to see them in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
Common Ostrich: Perhaps Africa’s most well-known bird species. Breeding season is the best time to see large flocks of Ostriches, from March to September. They are found in the savannas, woodlands, and deserts of Southern Africa and across Western Africa to the horn of Africa. They can be seen in many African parks and game reserves, including Kruger National Park and Chobe National Park.
African Penguins: You can see African penguins along the southeastern coast of Africa and surrounding islands. The best time to see them is from November to August. They are most active at dusk and dawn. A popular viewing destination for African penguins is Boulders Beach in Simons Town, South Africa.
Hornbills: There are 24 species of hornbill found in Africa. You can see arboreal and terrestrial species in African savannas, rainforests, and woodlands. Find Southern Ground Hornbills in Mapungubwe or Kruger National Park.

Types of African Fish

The African Great Lakes have high populations of cichlids, such as the Strawberry Peacock African Malawi Cichlid.

©Grigorev Mikhail/Shutterstock.com

Africa is home to an abundance of freshwater and marine fish. There are hundreds of freshwater lakes and rivers in Africa. Some of the most notable are the African Great Lakes, a system of 7 lakes in East, South, and Central Africa. These lakes are known for their cichlid populations. One of the great lakes, Lake Malawi is an especially popular fishing destination, with over 1,000 species of fish. Fishing in Lake Malawi is best between September and April, but underwater viewing is best between May and October.

With Western Africa bordering the Atlantic Ocean, and Eastern Africa the Indian Ocean, you will easily find thousands of marine fish species. Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar are popular fishing destinations where you can catch several species of tuna, sharks, mackerel, marlin, barracuda, and more. The best time for deep-sea fishing off these coasts is between October and April. If you’re interested in viewing marine wildlife, Mozambique has a marine conservation area where you can enjoy manta rays, sharks, eels, and a variety of reef fish. October to March is the best time for snorkeling in Mozambique.

Snakes in Africa

A wide variety of snakes call Africa home. There are snakes in every type of habitat, from tropical, to desert, to aquatic. You’ll find both venomous and non-venomous snakes in Africa. Venomous snakes in Africa have three different types of venom- Cytotoxic, neurotoxic, and haemotoxic. Cytotoxins kill cells. They destroy the cells in soft tissue and internal organs. Neurotoxins affect neural pathways and can cause paralysis. Haemotixins destroy red blood cells and prevent blood from clotting.

The puff adder resides throughout sub-Saharan Africa in open forests, grasslands, and rocky savannahs.

©iStock.com/S_Lew

Some of the deadliest snakes in Africa include:

Black Mamba: Africa’s longest snake, and one of the fastest snakes in the world. Black mambas are found in Southern and Eastern Africa. They live in savannahs and rocky hills.
Boomslang: One of the most venomous snakes in the world. Native to the savannahs of sub-Saharan Africa.
Bush Viper: Arboreal snakes found in the tropical rainforests of Western and Central Africa.
Cape Cobra: Only found in Southern Africa. They live in a variety of habitats, like grasslands, savannahs, and deserts.
West African Carpet Viper: Endemic to the dry savannahs of West Africa. It is the most dangerous snake in Africa.
Eastern Green Mamba: Arboreal snakes native to the coastal regions of Southern and East Africa. They can be found in the dense vegetation of tropical rainforests.
Puff Adder: Found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, typically in open forests, grasslands, and rocky savannahs.

A few nonvenomous snakes native to Africa:

Ball Python: Live north of the equator in Western and Central Africa. They are found near water in grasslands and forests.
Brown House Snake: Distributed throughout Southern Africa. These snakes are popular as pets.
Spotted Bush Snake: Found in a variety of habitats close to water sources. They have a large range, from Southern Africa northward into Central Africa, from east to west coasts.
African Rock Python: The largest snake in Africa. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, in a range of habitats near permanent bodies of water.

The 6 Rarest African Animals

Aside from the Big 5, there are innumerable African animals that can be viewed in their natural habitats. But there are some animals that are very rare to witness, so any traveler who should happen upon one would be lucky. Here’s a look at 6 very rare African animals to see:

Mountain gorillas, which are critically endangered, would be one of the rarest animal groups to witness in Africa.

©Marian Galovic/Shutterstock.com

Pangolin: This pre-historic-looking animal, which sports armor-like scales, is an elusive nocturnal creature whose main dietary staple is ants. Of the eight subspecies existent in the world, four inhabit Africa including the black-bellied pangolin, white-bellied pangolin, giant ground pangolin, and Temminck’s ground pangolin. All these types are listed as threatened.
Black Rhino: With only 5,000 left in the wild, the critically endangered black rhinocerus would be a prized sight to behold. Kruger National Park in South Africa would be one of the best places to witness this rare African animal.
Honey Badger: The star of the hilarious viral video “Honey Badger Don’t Care,” this skunk-like, tough-as-nails animal fearlessly takes on dangerous animals like cobras and lions. While the honey badger is not endangered, it’s still a rare animal to witness on a safari. It inhabits dry areas, and one popular spot to view them is Etosha National Park in Namibia.
Ethiopian Wolf: This large canine is the most endangered carnivore in Africa, with fewer than 440 individuals remaining. It’s endemic to Ethiopia’s highlands, restricted to just seven isolated enclaves in the region. As Africa’s only wolf species, witnessing one would be marvelous. Bale Mountain National Park would be the best place to see one.
Mountain Gorilla: Bwindi National Park in Uganda would be the place to see this rare, most endangered animal species in Africa. Also known as siverbacks, these animals are found in the forested regions of mountain habitats between 8,000 and 13,000 feet up. Given there are only 1,000 left in the world, it’s one of the rarest and most treasured animals to view in Africa.
African Penguin: It’s the only penguin subspecies to inhabit Africa, and also one of the most endangered African animals. These adorable birds live on the south-western coast, living in 27 colonies on 24 islands between Namibia and Algoa Bay, near Port Elizabeth, South Africa, with the largest colony found on Dyer Island, near Kleinbaai.

The 5 Largest African Animals

A giant among African wildlife, the African elephant is the largest land mammal on earth.

Africa is home to some of the largest land animals on the planet including the world’s tallest and heaviest mammals. Here’s our list of the top 5 animals who impress with their enormous sizes:

African Elephant: African elephants takes the top prize in several categories. Besides being the largest land animals on earth with an average weight of 4-8 tons and height of 10 feet tall, these giants are also among the strongest in the world, capable of lifting 7 tons of weight. Elephants are also incredibly smart.
White Rhinoceros: The white rhino is considered the second largest land animal in the world, with a maximum weight of 4 tons! It can stand up to 6 feet tall, and is a highly dangerous animal to encounter in the wild.
Hippopotamus: Hippos can grow up to 16 feet long, weigh up to 4.5 tons, and sport teeth measuring 20 inches long, which they use for fighting as well as eating. This third-largest African animal may appear docile, but should be feared, as it’s another very dangerous mammal.
Giraffe: Weighing up to 3,000 lbs, giraffes measure the tallest of any land animal on earth at an average height of 18 feet. Their stand-out feature is their ultra-long necks, which allow them to eat foliage in trees as well as graze.
African Buffalo: This species of buffalo, native to Africa, can weigh as much as 3,5000 lbs and its length can reach over 11 feet.

Rivers in Africa

There are numerous massive rivers in Africa that are home to a variety of wildlife and African animals. African rivers range from the Nile River, which stretches more than 4,000 miles in length and is a haven of wildlife in the harshness of the Sahara Desert to the Okavango River, which has an inland delta that covers 600,000 acres in swamps and floods during dry seasons to create a gathering ground for thousands of animals.

The Nile River is the longest in Africa, and home to countless native African animals.

©iStock.com/Phototreat

These rivers are rich habitats for diverse African wildlife. Many large herds of safari animals can be viewed near these rivers like elephants, giraffes, antelope, and hundreds of bird species. Other animals include gorillas, hippos, Nile crocodiles, hundreds of fish species, and even hyenas and African wild dogs.

Some notable African rivers include:

Congo River: The second longest river in Africa with a length of 2,900 miles. At measured depths of 219.5 meters, it’s also the world’s deepest recorded river. Nearly 800 fish species have been recorded inhabiting the Congo River Basin, and its tropical forests are home to mammals like the bonobo, Allen’s swamp monkey, the aquatic genet, okapi, the dryas monkey, and Congo peafowl.
Niger River: The main river of West Africa, it flows 2,590 miles from southeastern Guinea through Mali, Niger, and Benin, and empties in the massive Niger Delta into the Gulf of Guinea. This river’s course is unique, having the appearance of a boomerang in shape. Animals found along the Niger include hippopotamuses, several types of crocodiles including the Nile crocodile, and numerous species of lizards and birds.
Orange River: Flows 1,300 miles across South Africa and forms the boundary with Namibia. The Orange River is home to a number of endemic fish including the Numaquab barb, Maluti redfin, and Orange River mudfish.
Zambezi River: A massive 2,200 miles river that is home to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Zambezi is home to a wide variety of wildlife including bull sharks and many bird species.

African Countries Animals Lists

Click any of the countries below to see a detailed list of animals located in that country!

African Animals

Aardvark

Can move 2ft of soil in just 15 seconds!

Aardwolf

The aardwolf has five toes on its front paws

Abyssinian

One of the oldest cat breeds in the world!

Achrioptera Manga

Unlike other species of stick insects, the Achrioptera manga's mating season is year-round and mating occurs regularly.

Addax

The hooves of the addax are splayed and have flat, springy soles, one of the adaptations that help it walk over sand.

Admiral Butterfly

Stunningly beautiful wings

African Bullfrog

The African bullfrog is one of only three species of frog that have “teeth.”

African Bush Elephant

Can drink up to 50 gallons a day

African Civet

Secretes up to 4g of musk every week!

African Clawed Frog

African clawed frogs were used as pregnancy testers from the 1930s to the early 1960s.

African Fish Eagle

African fish eagles belong to the genus of sea eagles

African Forest Elephant

Have large rounded ears to help keep them cool!

African Golden Cat

The first image of an African golden cat was captured in the wild in Gabon in 2002.

African Grey Parrot

When a grey parrot named Yosuke got lost, it was reunited with its owner after giving the owner's name and address.

African Jacana

The males raise the young

African Palm Civet

Solitary but gathers in groups!

African Penguin

The only penguin species in Africa!

African Sugarcane Borer

N/A

African Tree Toad

Found in tropical moist lowland forests!

African Wild Dog

Also known as the painted dog!

Agama Lizard

The agama forms small social groups that contain both dominant and subordinate males.

Aidi

The Aidi's cheerful personality and relaxed temperament are just two reasons why this dog is a good choice for families with kids.

Albatross

The largest wingspan of any bird in the world!

Allosaurus

Differnt Lizard” or Allosaurus weighed around two tonnes that is almost equal to a car.

American Cockroach

Despite its name, actually originated from Africa and the Middle East

Angelshark

The angelshark’s range has contracted by more than 80% in the past century.

Angora Goat

Each adult Angora goat produces about 12 inches of mohair annually while kids have about 8 inches.

Ant

First evolved 100 million years ago!

Antelope

Renew their horns every year!

Anteosaurus

Although the Anteosaurus looked like a crocodile, it is more related to mammals than reptiles.

Ape

Love to learn, especially through observation

Archaeoindris

Archaeoindris was the largest primate to evolve in Madagascar

Armadillo Lizard

They communicate through a series of tongue flicking, head bobbing and tail wagging, among other methods.

Armyworm

They are so named because they "march" in armies of worms from one crop to another in search of food

Arsinoitherium

Arsinoitherium was a twin-horned mammal that looked like a rhino but is more closely related to present-day elephants.

Asian Lady Beetle

Asian lady beetles infest indoor spaces, but they do not reproduce indoors.

Australian Cockroach

The most common type outdoor roach in Florida

Australopithecus

Axanthic Ball Python

Axanthic ball pythons lack yellow pigment in their skin!

Aye-aye

Thought to be extinct until 1957!

Azawakh

Baboon

Can travel more than four miles a day!

Bagworm Moth

There are approximately 1350 species in the bagworm moth family (Psychidae), which forms part of the order Lepidoptera.

Bagworm Moth Caterpillar

They continually enlarge their protective cases

Ball Python

Banana Ball Python

Banana Cinnamon Ball Python

Banana cinnamon ball pythons came from combining the banana and cinnamon genes.

Banana Spider

People spin clothing and fishing nets out of these spiders’ silk.

Barb

There are over 1768 known species!

Bark Beetle

Not all bark beetles feed on a tree's bark. Some species feed on fruits, seeds, and other parts of the plant

Barn Owl

Found everywhere around the world!

Barn Swallow

Older offspring help care for new hatchlings.

Basenji Dog

Alert, affectionate and energetic!

Basenji Mix

Basilosaurus

Bat

Detects prey using echolocation!

Bat-Eared Fox

Bat-eared foxes can run up to 35 MPH!

Bearded Vulture

These birds eat a diet of bones

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs feed for 4-12 minutes.

Bee

Rock paintings of bees date back 15,000 years

Bee-Eater

They roll around in dirt to prevent external parasites

Beetle

There are more than 350,000 different species

Beewolf wasp

They hunt bees

Belgian Canary

The Belgian canary is one of the oldest and most influential in its genus.

Bichir

The bichir species is more than 400 million years old

Bird

Not all birds are able to fly!

Bird Snake

Usambara vine snakes sit perfectly still and sway in the wind like a stick.

Biscuit Beetle

The biscuit beetle form a symbiotic relationship with yeast

Black Aphids

One of the most destructive pests in the world

Black Mamba

Black mambas are the longest venomous snake in Africa, and second longest in the world.

Black Pastel Ball Python

Black Rhinoceros

Horns can grow to 1.5m!

Black Throat Monitor

The black-throat monitor is the second-longest lizard species in Africa and the largest in mass.

Black Widow Spider

They typically prey on insects!

Blind Snake

The blind snake is often mistaken for a worm.

Blister Beetle

Blister beetles release a toxic fluid that causes blistering when they're threatened.

Blowfly

Can smell rotting carcasses up to one mile away

Blue Dragon Sea Slug

They inflict a painful, venomous sting

Blue Tit

The blue tit can hang upside down from branches

Boas

Boer Goat

Boerboel

Bombardier Beetle

Spray a noxious solution from their abdomens

Bongo

Long and heavy spiralled horns!

Bonobo

Shares 97% of the same DNA as humans!

Boomslang

Boomslangs are primarily arboreal but sometimes come to the ground.

Box-Headed Blood Bee

N/A

Box Jellyfish

Venomous marine animals

Brahminy Blindsnake

These snakes have been introduced to all continents, except Antarctica!

Brazilian Treehopper

“Mild-Mannered Minimonsters”

Brookesia Micra

Brookesia micra can curl up and pretend to be a dead leaf if it’s threatened.

Brown-banded Cockroach

Females glue egg cases to furniture

Brown Dog Tick

Can live its entire life indoors

Brown Hyena

They don’t laugh

Buffalo

"They look like you owe them money."

Bumblebee

The most common species of bee!

Bush Baby

In a series of leaps, this creature can cover almost 30 feet of distance in just a few seconds.

Bush Viper

Bush vipers are predators, sinking their fangs into prey while dangling from a tree limb

Butterfly

There are thought to be up 17,500 species!

Caecilian

Some species' babies use their hooked or scraper-like teeth to peel off and eat their mother's skin

Camel

Can survive without water for 10 months!

Cane Rat

Often eaten as bush meat or as livestock

Cape Lion

Despite its large, muscular body, the Cape lion actually rests more than 20 hours a day

Caracal

Has 20 different muscles in it's ears!

Carpenter Ant

Carpenter ants can lift up to seven times their own weight with their teeth!

Carpet Beetle

Carpet beetles eat different animal and plant-based products, depending on what stage of their lifecycle they are in; these foods include pollen, flour, wool, and fur.

Carpet Viper

The Carpet Viper probably bites and kills more people than any other species of snake.

Carrion Beetle

Carrion beetles' diets depend on the specie. Some eat decaying carcasses, while others scavenge in decaying plant matter and dung.

Cat

First domesticated by the Ancient Egyptians!

Cat Snake

Some cat snakes have a prehensile tail that helps them climb into trees.

Caterpillar

The larvae of a moth or butterfly!

Catfish

There are nearly 3,000 different species!

Centipede

There are about 3,000 documented species!

Ceratosaurus

Chameleon

There are more than 160 different species!

Cheetah

The fastest land mammal in the world!

Chicken

First domesticated more than 10,000 years ago!

Chigger

Surviving on the skin cells of humans and animals

Chimpanzee

Has 32 teeth including fang-like canines!

Christmas Beetle

Christmas beetles got their common name because they’re most abundant around Christmas time.

Cicada

Cicadas have one of the longest insect lifespans

Cichlid

There are more than 2 000 known species!

Cigarette Beetle

N/A

Cinnamon Ball Python

Click Beetle

Click beetles are named for the clicking noise they make to escape predators.

Clothes Moth

Clothes Moths can remain in the larvae stage for up to 2 years, but adults only live 10 days.

Cockroach

Dated to be around 300 million years old!

Coconut Crab

The largest terrestrial arthropod in the world

Codling Moth

Pupae are able to undergo diapause to survive poor fruit yield years and winter.

Comet Moth

Adult comet moths do not feed at all till they die less than 12 days later.

Common Buzzard

The most common raptor in the UK!

Common Furniture Beetle

The common furniture beetle feeds exclusively on wood

Common House Spider

House spiders have the ability to eat most insects in a home.

Common Raven

A group of ravens is called an unkindness or a conspiracy.

Cormorant

They can fly 35 mph and dive 150 feet below water.

Coton de Tulear

The soft coat of the Coton de Tulear is the result of a singular genetic mutation early in the breed's development.

Cow

There are nearly 1.5 billion worldwide!

Crab

There are 93 different crab groups

Crab Spider

Crab Spiders can mimic ants or bird droppings

Crane

Many are critically endangered species!

Crayfish

Female crayfish aren't that maternal; they have to secrete a form of pheromone, referred to as maternal pheromones, that encourages them to take care of their offspring and prevents them from eating their young.

Cricket

Male crickets can produce sounds by rubbing their wings together

Crocodile

Have changed little in 200 million years!

Crocodylomorph

Crocodylomorphs include extinct ancient species as well as 26 living species today.

Cross River Gorilla

Less than 300 remaining!

Crow

A group of these birds is called a Murder.

Cuckoo

Darkling Beetle

Darkling Beetles have segmented antennae. Each one is divided into eleven segments.

De Brazza’s Monkey

They forage on plants and fruits and act as seed dispersers, helping their environment.

Deathwatch Beetle

The adult deathwatch beetle taps on the wood to find a mate.

Desert Ghost Ball Python

Desert ghost ball pythons are even more beautiful when they're bred with another type like enchi ball pythons.

Desert Locust

Solitary locusts are grey while gregarious locusts are yellow with stripes.

Desert Rain Frog

The desert rain frog doesn't hop

Desert Wolf

These tiny wolves prefer to cohabitate in pairs or groups of three (generally two males and a female).

Devil’s Coach Horse Beetle

The Devil’s coach horse beetle can emit a noxious substance to deter predators

Diamondback Moth

Adult males make high amplitude boing noise to attract females

Dik-Dik

Dik-diks use a tar-like liquid from their eye glands to mark their territory!

Dinocrocuta

Dinocrucuta had very strong jaws capable of crushing bones.

Dinofelis

Dinopithecus

The only species currently recognized of this ancient baboon is Dinopithecus ingens.

Dinosaur Shrimp

These "shrimp" evolved to survive very harsh climates, which is one reason they have been able to live so long.

Dobsonfly

The dobsonfly spends up three years as a larva, and only a week as an adult.

Dog

First domesticated in South-East Asia!

Dog Tick

Dog ticks feed on dogs and other mammals

Donkey

First domesticated 5,000 years ago!

Dormouse

Found in Europe, Africa and Asia!

Dragonfly

It's larvae are carnivorous!

Duck

Rows of tiny plates line their teeth!

Dumeril’s Boa

Some tribes believe that the snake's skin holds the souls of their ancestors.

Dung Beetle

The dung beetle can push objects many times its own weight

Dunkleosteus

Dunkleosteus had a bite force strong enough to cut through pirey.

Dusky Shark

The Dusky Shark sometimes eats trash discarded by humans.

Dwarf Crocodile

Digs burrows in river banks to rest!

Eagle

Has exceptional eyesight!

Eared Grebe

The most populous grebe in the world

Earthworm

They are hermaphrodites, which means they have male and female organs

Earwig

There are nearly 2,000 different species!

Eastern Gorilla

The largest primate in the world!

Eastern Green Mamba

It is completely arboreal, and its green color is one of the adaptations that make life in the trees possible.

Eastern Lowland Gorilla

Less than 5,000 in the wild!

Eel

Eels can be a mere few inches long to 13 feet!

Eel catfish

Eel catfish breathe air and reach up on land to catch beetles. Scientists think they may be a missing link between fish and lizards.

Egret

Most species are relatively vocal, making harsh croaking sounds and squeals.

Egyptian Cobra (Egyptian Asp)

The Egyptian cobra is one of the largest cobras in Africa.

Egyptian Goose

A duck species that resembles a goose when flying

Egyptian Mau

An ancient breed of domestic cat!

Egyptian Tortoise

The Egyptian tortoise is one of the smallest tortoise species in the world.

Egyptian Vulture

They steal large ostrich eggs and use rocks and pebbles to crack the shells.

Eland

Both females and males have horns.

Electric Catfish

The electric catfish can discharge an electric shock up to 450 volts

Elephant

Spends around 22 hours a day eating!

Elephant Bird

Vorombe titan, a type of elephant bird, is the largest bird that ever lived

Elephant Shrew

Found exclusively on the African continent!

Enchi Ball Python

Eurasian Bullfinch

The shy eurasian bullfinch prefers to forage very close to cover.

Eurasian Jay

The Eurasian jay has the ability to mimic other sounds

Eurasian Sparrowhawk

Females are typically 25% larger than males.

European Bee-Eater

They can eat up to 250 bees per day!

European Goldfinch

They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders, especially those containing niger seeds.

European Polecat

Its fur changes color in the winter!

European Robin

Male robins are so aggressive and territorial that they will attack their own reflections.

European Starling

European starlings are accomplished mimics, often copying songs or sounds of other birds and animals (frog calls, goats, cats), or even mechanical sounds and human speech!

Falcon

The fastest creatures on the planet!

Fallow deer

The fallow deer has more variation in its coat colors than most other deer.

False Cobra

When it feels threatened, it mimics a cobra in an attempt to dissuade a potential attacker.

False Widow Spider

False spiders actually prey on black widow spiders and other hazardous spiders

Fancy Mouse

Fancy mice are beloved pets with a history of domestication spanning thousands of years!

Fennec Fox

Found in the African Sahara Desert!

Fiddler Crab

The fiddler crab gets its name from the motion the males make with their over-sized claw during the mating ritual.

Finch

Finches have strong, conical bills that help them break open tough seeds that many other birds cannot.

Fire Ball Python

The fire ball python morph is known for its rich golden and reddish-brown coloration.

Firefly

The firefly produces some of the most efficient light in the world

Firefly Ball Python

Flamingo

Sleeps on just one leg!

Flea

Adult fleas can jump up to 7 inches in the air

Flea Beetle

Flea beetles can jump like fleas when threatened.

Flour Beetle

Flour beetles are adapted to survive in very dry environments.

Fly

There are more than 240,000 different species!

Flycatcher

Most of the hundreds of varieties of flycatchers belong to the Tyrannidae and Muscicapidae families!

Forest Cobra

There are three different color morphs, which entirely depend on the region that they live in.

Fossa

Most closely related to the Mongoose!

Fox

Only 12 species are considered "true foxes"

Freeway Ball Python

Freeway ball pythons come from breeding yellow belly and asphalt ball pythons.

Freshwater Eel

Freshwater eels are actually catadromous, meaning they migrate to saltwater to spawn

Freshwater Jellyfish

The freshwater jellyfish is native to China but is now found all over the world

Fritillary Butterfly

Some emit noxious defense chemicals

Frog

There are around 7,000 different species!

Fruit Bat

Among the largest bats in the world

Fruit Fly

Fruit flies are among the most common research animals in the world

Fulvous Whistling Duck

They build a ramp from their nest, which leads to a nearby water source

Gaboon Viper

Gaboon vipers are the largest vipers in Africa.

Gadwall

They make many sounds when trying to attract a mate.

Galapagos Shark

Galapagos sharks are cannibalistic and sometimes eat their young, so the pups stay away from the adults in shallow water.

Gazelle

Named for the Arabic word for love poems

Gecko

There are thought to be over 2,000 species!

Genet

The Genet has retractable claws like a cat

Gerbil

Originally known as the Desert Rat!

German Cockroach

The most common type of urban roach

Giant African Land Snail

The biggest snail species on land!

Giant Golden Mole

The giant golden mole is able to sense vibrations through the earth because of the giant bone structure in its inner ear that works in conjunction with a bony plate which surrounds the skull.

Giant Trevally

The largest fish in its genus

Giraffe

Long, black tongue can grow to 18 inches long!

Glass Lizard

Can grow up to 4ft long!

Glowworm

Found inhabiting dense woodland and caves!

Gnat

Males form large mating swarms at dusk

Goat

Most closely related to the Sheep!

Goldcrest

The goldcrest never starts moving and needs to consume for most of the day to survive. Therefore, in the colder months, it's best that eat 90% a day.

Golden Eagle

Their calls sound like high-pitched screams, but they are quiet most of the time.

Golden Jackal

roaming and adaptable candids

Golden Mole

The golden mole is so named because of its iridescent coat, which gives it a shining, rainbow-like effect.

Golden Oriole

Migrates between Europe and Asia!

Goliath Beetle

Goliath beetles are the largest beetles in the world, and they can carry objects several times their weight.

Goliath Frog

Does not have a vocal sac.

Goliath Grouper

Massive reef fish with a strong tail

Goliath Tigerfish

Featured in "River Monsters" TV series!

Gomphotherium

Gorilla

The biggest of the world's primates!

Goshawk

The goshawk is a popular choice among European falconers

Grasshopper

There are 11,000 known species!

Great Egret

The male egret performs an elaborate courtship display to attract a mate

Grebe

They swim like frogs

Green Bee-Eater

Mainly eats honeybees!

Green Mamba

Green mambas are fast, and can travel up to 7 miles per hour.

Grey Heron

Male grey herons are picky about their mates. They'll reject a female that they don't fancy.

Grey Mouse Lemur

The largest species of mouse lemur!

Griffon Vulture

Can spot a dead animal from thousands of feet away

Ground Squirrel

Ground squirrels are adept excavators and can dig colonial burrows larger than football fields!

Grouper

Many grouper can change their sex, and it is always from female to male.

Guinea Fowl

Found in a vairety of African habitats!

Gypsy Moth

One of the most invasive species in the world

Gypsy Moth Caterpillar

N/A

Hairy-footed Flower Bee

N/A

Hamburg Chicken

This breed doesn't usually make nests or incubate their own chicks.

Hamster

Able to run as quickly backwards as forwards!

Hare

Can reach speeds of over 50 mph!

Hartebeest

Unlike other animals that move towards the water source, hartebeests move to more arid locations after rainfall.

Hawk

While the Ferruginous hawk is the largest specie in the USA, Asia’s Upland buzzard is the biggest overall.

Hawk Moth Caterpillar

Many hawk moth caterpillars eat toxins from plants, but don’t sequester them the way milkweed butterflies do. Most toxins are excreted.

Hedgehog

Thought to be one of the oldest mammals on Earth!

Heron

Inhabits wetlands around the world!

Hippopotamus

Has pink anti-bacterial sweat!

Hippopotamus gorgops

The eyes of Hippopotamus gorgops were positioned on eyestalks which allowed it to see above the water surface when submerged.

Hognose snake

Prima Donnas of the Snake World

Honey Badger

One of earth's bravest creatures!

Honey Bee

There are only 8 recognized species!

Hoopoe

Stunning bird with a stinky way to deter predators!

Hornbill

The bird has a massive horn on its bill!

Horned Adder

Males tend to be more brightly colored than females, and females are significantly bigger than males.

Horned Beetle

These beetles are herbivores but have an intimidating appearance because of the horn-like projection on their heads. However, they are entirely harmless to humans, as they don't sting or bite.

Horned Viper

Horned vipers sidewind across the desert sands of their home.

Horse

Has evolved over 50 million years!

Horsefly

Horseflies have been seen performing Immelmann turns, much like fighter jets.

House Sparrow (English Sparrow)

The house sparrow has been introduced all over the world

Housefly

The fly has no teeth

Hovasaurus

Human

Thought to have orignated 200,000 years ago!

Hummingbird Hawk-Moth

Huntsman Spider

Some huntsman spiders have an interesting way of moving around. Some cartwheel while others do handsprings or backflips.

Hyena

There are four different species!

Ibex

Can jump over 6 feet straight up from a standstill

Ibis

Found in swamps, marshes and wetlands!

Impala

Able to jump over 10 feet high

Indri

The largest species of Lemur!

Insect

Insects go back over 350 million years, making the creatures older than man, flowering plants and dinosaurs.

Insects

There are an estimated 30 million species!

Irish Elk

The Irish elk had the biggest antlers of any known deer species.

Jacana

The jacana has the ability to swim underwater

Jack Crevalle

One of the biggest species in the Caranx genus

Jackal

Can maintain speeds of 16 km/h!

Jackson’s Chameleon

Have jousting battles with their horns.

Japanese Bantam Chicken

Japanese bantam chickens are the best flying chicken species

Jerboa

Tiny rodent with a kangaroo-like jump!

Jumping Spider

Some can jump 50 times the length of their bodies

Katydid

Kenyan Sand Boa

A popular pet snake that comes in dozens of morphs!

Kestrel

Can hang suspended on wind currents

Killer Clown Ball Python

Killer clown ball pythons can cost several thousand dollars.

Killifish

Killifish are highly sought after for their peaceful nature and ability to adapt to most aquarium communities.

Kingfisher

Inhabits wetlands and woodlands worldwide!

Kissing Bugs

Kissing bugs derive their name from the location they prefer to bite, which is usually close to the lips of the host

Kitefin Shark

Klipspringer

Klipspringers can jump as high as 10-12ft!

Kori Bustard

It's easily identified by its crest, large size, and wingspan

Kudu

Lives in herds of up to 24 individuals!

Lace Bug

May bite when threatened

Ladybug

There are more than 5,000 species worldwide!

Lappet-faced Vulture

Lappet-faced vultures are tidy and wash their heads in a body of water after they’ve eaten

Larder Beetle

Larder beetles were named based on their attraction to food storage rooms or cupboards, but they do not feed on stored food products.

Largemouth Bass

Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida all claim the largemouth bass as the state fish or state freshwater fish.

Lavender Albino Ball Python

The first two lavender albino ball pythons were wild-hatched and imported from Africa.

Lawnmower Blenny

Must be in temperatures of 78 degrees Fahrenheit to breed

Leaf-Tailed Gecko

Only found on Madagascar!

Leafcutter Bee

N/A

Leatherback Sea Turtle

They are the largest living turtle and the only sea turtle without a hard shell!

Leech

Has 10 pairs of eyes!

Lemon Blast Ball Python

Lemur

Natively found on the island of Madagascar!

Leopard

Spends much of the time high in the trees!

Leopard Tortoise

The most widely distributed tortoise in Africa!

Leptocephalus

Leptocephali have flat bodies filled with jelly-like substances, surrounded by a thin layer of muscle.

Lesser Jacana

The lesser jacana is nomadic, often moving in search of temporary wetland habitats.

Liger

The offspring of a lion and tiger parents!

Linnet

While linnets are monogamous during mating season, they do not mate for life. While breeding pairs are together, the males are highly territorial and will defend the nesting site and the surrounding area.

Lion

Lives in small groups called prides!

Lizard

There are around 5,000 different species!

Locust

Each locust can eat its weight in plants each day.

Long-Winged Kite Spider

The long-winged kite spider sets itself apart from other spiny orb-weavers by its elongated spiked protrusions from its sides, giving it the appearance of a pointed kite (its namesake).

Lungfish

The lungfish first evolved almost 400 million years ago.

Lystrosaurus

Lystrosaurus was one of the few terrestial species that survived the permian extinction

Macaque

Macaque females will pass on their social rankings to their daughters

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach

One of the largest types of cockroach

Madagascar Jacana

The Madagascar jacana is endangered due to habitat loss and illegal hunting.

Madagascar Tree Boa

Madora Moth

Mopane worms (larva) only live for 3 - 4 days after evolving into an adult (madora), during which they mate and lay eggss

Maggot

Will only live in wet areas

Magpie

They are found across Europe, Asia and Africa!

Mallard

With an appropriate tail wind, the mallard can travel hundreds of miles a day

Mamba

The black mamba is land-dwelling while the other three mamba species are tree-dwelling.

Mandrill

Distinctively coloured noses and rumps!

Mantella Frog

Some of the smallest and most brightly colored frogs in the world

Marabou Stork

The marabou stork does not have a voice box.

Masiakasaurus

Masiakasaurus had dentition adapted to catching fast-moving prey.

Mason Bee

N/A

Mayfly

There are 2,500 known species worldwide!

Mealworm Beetle

In 1968, the mealworm beetle traveled to space and circled the moon on the Soviet mission Zond 5.

Mealybug

They have a symbiotic relationship with ants.

Meerkat

One will stand on guard to watch for predators!

Millipede

Some species have a poisonous bite!

Mojave Ball Python

Instead of the typically banded or ‘alien head’ patterning of most ball python morphs, the Mojave morph’s patterning is characterized by lots of large, circular splotches with small, dark brown dots in their centers.

Mole

Primarily hunts and feeds on Earthworms!

Mole Crab (Sand Flea)

They eat jellyfish tentacles

Mole Cricket

Adult Mole crickets may fly as far as 5 miles during mating season and are active most of the year.

Mole Snake

“The mole snake can reach a length of 6.8 feet”

Mollusk

Most molluscs have more than one heart

Monarch Butterfly

During migration, Monarch Butterflies may travel 250 or more miles each day.

Mongoose

Range in size from just 1 to 3 foot!

Mongrel

Has characteristics of two or more breeds!

Monitor Lizard

Some species are thought to carry a weak venom!

Monkey

There are around 260 known species!

Moorhen

Feeds on aquatic insects and water-spiders!

Mosasaurus

The Mosasaurus was much longer than the fearsome Tyrannosaur rex.

Mosquito

Only the female mosquito actually sucks blood

Moth

There are 250,000 different species!

Mountain Gorilla

Isolated populations found in the mountains!

Mouse

Found on every continent on Earth!

Mozambique Spitting Cobra

Mozambique Spitting Cobra is one of Africa's most dangerous snakes.

Mule

The offspring of a horse and donkey parents!

Myna Bird

Many people believe the hill myna bird is better at mimicking humans than a parrot!

Naegleria

Causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis

Naked Mole Rat

Naked mole rats don’t get cancer

Needlefish

no stomach to digest food

Nguni Cattle

Nguni cattle are the most profitable breed for beef farmers.

Nigerian Goat

Produces a lot of milk for its small size

Night Adder

Night adders are small, slender snakes that, despite the name, are actually most active during the day.

Night Heron

When they feel threatened juvenile night herons vomit their stomach contents.

Nightingale

Named more than 1,000 years ago!

Nightjar

There are 97 nightjar species across 20 genera!

Nile Crocodile

Unlike other reptiles, the male Nile crocodile will stay with a female to guard their nest of eggs.

Nile Perch

Nile perch will sometimes eat those within its own species

No See Ums

There are more than 5,000 species.

Norway Rat

Nuthatch

Nuthatches spend a lot of their time upside down.

Nutria

An invasive species, one female nutria can birth up to 200 babies in just a few years of living!

Nyala

They have a high-pitched alarm call that sounds like a barking dog.

Okapi

Eats more than 100 different types of plants!

Oleander Hawk Moth

Oleander hawk moth caterpillars feed on the foliage of oleander, an extremely toxic plant to which they are immune.

Olive Baboon

Olive baboons will sometimes form strong friendships with each other

Oranda Goldfish

Oranda goldfish are one of the most popular fancy goldfish breeds

Orange Baboon Tarantula

Their nickname is "Orange Bitey Thing"!

Orange Dream Ball Python

The "Orange Dream" name came from the idea that the morph would make its first breeder a million dollars.

Orb Weaver

Females are about four times the size of males

Orchid Dottyback

This fish camouflages as its prey's parents to trick it into becoming dinner.

Oribi

Males oribis spend most of their time patrolling the borders of their territories; they can do this about 16 times an hour! However, 27% of their day is spent grazing.

Ornate Bichir

The ornate bichir can survive outside water for short periods of time

Ornithocheirus

Scientists once considered the Ornithocheirus an ancestor to modern birds

Ortolan Bunting

The tradition of hiding your face with a napkin or towel while eating this bird was begun by a priest who was a friend of the great French gastronome Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin.

Osprey

They reuse nesting sites for 70 years!

Ostrich

The largest bird in the world!

Otter

There are 13 different species worldwide

Owl

The owl can rotate its head some 270 degrees

Owlfly (Ascalaphidae)

Adult owlflies can capture prey while flying in the air.

Oxpecker

The oxpecker, known as the rhino’s guard, alerts its host to danger with a loud commotion

Pacific Coast Tick

Pacific Coast ticks can go without food for two to three years without dying.

Palaeophis

This snake was as long as a school bus!

Panda Pied Ball Python

The panda pied ball python morph is a combination of the piebald and black pastel traits.

Pangolin

Bad eyesight, but great sense of smell

Pantaloon Bee

N/A

Parakeet

Monk parakeets are the only parakeets that actually build nests. They’re also the only parakeets to nest in great colonies.

Parrot

Can live for up to 100 years!

Partridge

Long-lost civilizations have immortalized male partridges in art, depicting them as a symbol of fertility.

Patas Monkey

The fastest species of primate in the world!

Peacock

Most commonly found on the Indian mainland!

Pelagornithidae

The biggest members of the Pelagornithidae family were the largest flying birds known.

Perch Fish

Some of the most delicious gamefish in the world

Peregrine Falcon

Fastest animal on Earth

Peringuey’s Adder

Peringuey's adders' eyes are nearly on the tops of their heads!

Pharaoh Hound

The blushing dog of Malta.

Pheasant

Females lay between 8 and 12 eggs per clutch!

Phoenix Chicken

These small chickens have tails that can be up to five feet long!

Phytosaurs

Pied Ball Python

Pigeon

They can find their way back to their nests from up to 1300 miles away.

Pink Bollworm

N/A

Platybelodon

Pliosaur

Pliosaurs were the short-necked version of plesiosaurs.

Polecat

They can run at a speed of 15mph

Pompano Fish

They are bottom-feeders

Powderpost Beetle

Powderpost beetles prefer living in moist tree limbs, dead wood, and branches. They get into homes through infested joists, paneling, rafters, flooring, and finished wood products.

Praying Mantis

The mantis can turn its head 180 degrees.

Pterodactyl

Pterodactyl is not technically a dinosaur. Although they lived during the same time as dinosaurs, they are classified as winged reptiles.

Puff Adder

This large snake is so-named because it will puff up its body to appear bigger than it is when directly threatened by a predator or person.

Puss Moth

Caterpillars squirt formic acid!

Pygmy Hippopotamus

Spends more time on land than in water!

Pyjama Shark

Pyjama Sharks like to swim in shallow inshore waters.

Python

Female pythons lay eggs and defend them until they hatch.

Quagga

The quagga is a subspecies of plains zebra.

Quail

Inhabits woodland and forest areas worldwide!

Rabbit

There are more than 300 different species!

Radiated Tortoise

The most protected tortoise in the world!

Rainbow Kribs (Kribensis)

Rainbow Kribs sometimes nip the fins of other fish, especially ones with long, flowing tails, which is too tempting for them not to bite.

Rat

Omnivores that eat anything!

Red-Billed Quelea Bird

Is the most populous bird in the world

Red Deer

A male red deer shows his age in his antlers, which become longer and more branched every year.

Red-Eared Slider

Sliders spend lots of time basking in the sun. As cold-blooded animals, they need the sun to heat up.

Red Fox

The red fox actually has many different variations of fur, including silver and brown.

Red Kite

This bird moves its tail to steer its body like a rudder on a boat.

Red Spitting Cobra

Scientists believe that the red spitting cobra evolved from injecting venom to spitting it in response to the constant threat of early humans

Redstart

They build their nests off the ground in tree holes, cavities, stone walls, and roofs

Rhino Beetle

Rhinoceros beetles can lift objects 850 times their weight

Rhino Viper

The river jack snake has a gigantic horn-like scale on the tip of its nose.

Rhinoceros

It's horns are made from keratin!

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhombic Egg-Eater Snake

When birds aren't nesting, these snakes fast

Ribbon Eel

Can fit its body into a tiny crevice of a reef

Rinkhals Snake

This snake is known for playing dead as a defense against predators.

River Turtle

Inhabits freshwater habitats around the world!

Robber Flies

The female pretend they are dead if they do not find the male worthy of mating.

Robin

There are more than 45 species in Australia alone!

Rock Hyrax

Actually related to Elephants and Manatees!

Rock Python

Rock pythons may have crossbred with the escaped Burmese pythons in Florida.

Rodents

The capybara, the world’s largest rodent, likes to be in and around bodies of water. Because of this, the Catholic Church in South America decided that it was a fish, and people were allowed to eat it during Lent and First Fridays.

Rooster

Will mate with the entire flock!

Root Aphids

Nymphs take 9 to 10 days on average to mature, with a complete lifespan of an estimated 30 days.

Rove Beetle

When threatened, rove beetles raise the ends of their body like scorpions, but they have no sting.

Ruddy Turnstone

They flip over stones to find prey

Sable Ferret

Ferrets were used during the Revolutionary War to keep down the rat population.

Sailfish

Fast billfish with a sail-like dorsal fin

Sand Cat

They can survive for weeks without drinking water because the get moisture from their prey.

Sand Crab

The sand crab burrows beneath the sand with its tail

Sand Viper

Sand vipers are nuisance snakes in some areas.

Sandpiper

Some sandpipers can migrate more than 8,000 miles without stopping!

Sarcosuchus

Sarcosuchus is a relative of present-day crocodiles.

Satanic leaf-tailed gecko

They are called “phants” or “satanics” in the pet trade.

Saturniidae Moth

Some of the largest moths in the world

Sauropoda

Newly hatched sauropods weighted less than 11 pounds and put on 2 tons of weight a year!

Sauropoda

Sauropods lived in herds.

Savanna Goat

Savanna goats have only existed since 1957.

Savannah Monitor

Savannah monitors are one of the most popular lizards in captivity.

Scaleless Ball Python

Aside from the ocular scales covering each of its eyes, the scaleless ball python's body is completely smooth.

Scarab Beetle

The ancient Egyptians worshipped scarabs.

Scimitar-horned Oryx

Believed to be the inspiration for unicorn myths!

Scorpion

There are around 2,000 known species!

Sea Eagle

The sea eagle tends to mate for life with a single partner

Sea Snake

The sea snake is incredibly venomous, even more than a cobra!”

Seagull

Some gulls are capable of using tools

Seahorse

Males give birth to up to 1,000 offspring!

Sedge Warbler

Males never sing the same song twice

Senegal Parrot

As a pet, the Senegal parrot is capable of "talking" to its owner

Senepol Cattle

Senepol cattle have a distinctive red color and no horns.

Serval

Can leap more than 1 meter into the air!

Sheep

Around 35 million in the English countryside!

Shoebill Stork

Adults greet each other by clattering their bills together.

Short-Eared Owl

The short-eared owl is one of the most widespread owl species in the world, covering five continents.

Shrew

The spinal column of the shrew Scutisorex somereni is so strong and reinforced that it can support the weight of an adult human.

Shrimp

There are 2,000 different species worldwide!

Silky Shark

Has an extremely acute sense of hearing

Simbakubwa

Simbakubwa kutokaafrika was as big as a polar bear.

Sivatherium

Sivatherium was a large giraffid and also one of the largest ruminants of all-time.

Six-Eyed Sand Spiders

Camouflaged recluse with terrifying venom

Skink Lizard

Some skinks lay eggs in some habitats while giving birth to skinklets in other habitats.

Skua

Skuas will chase other birds until they give up their catch

Slug

They glide around on one foot, which is aided by the slime they produce

Smallmouth Bass

A fierce fighter!

Smokybrown Cockroach

Has up to 45 eggs per egg case

Snail

There are nearly 1,000 different species!

Snake

There are around 4,000 known species worldwide

Snouted Cobra

The snouted cobra, also known as the banded snouted cobra, is one of the most venomous snakes in all of Africa.

Snowflake Eel

Snowflake Eel have two jaws to help them swallow their food.

Soldier Beetle

Soldier beetles resemble fireflies, but they're not bioluminescent.

Song Thrush

A male song thrush can have over 100 phrases in his repertoire of songs and can imitate pet birds, telephones and other man-made objects.

Sparrow

There are 140 different species!

Sparrowhawk

The sparrowhawk is named after the fact that it hunts down and consumes sparrows

Spider

Spider Ball Python

The spider ball python is known for having a head wobble.

Spider Beetle

Spider beetles have globular bodies, which makes them look like spiders.

Spider Wasp

They prey on spiders to feed their larvae or they parasitize other spider wasps.

Spinosaurus

The Spinosaurus is the biggest carnivorous dinosaur ever discovered!

Spiny bush viper

These shaggy snakes are only 2 feet long and mostly arboreal.

Spitting Cobra

Spitting cobras are types of cobras that can spit venom at predators and prey.

Spongy Moth

The female Spongy Moth can lay between 600 to 1,000 eggs

Spongy Moth

In March of 2022, the Entomological Society of America changed the name of this insect from the European gypsy moth to the spongy moth out of respect for the Romani community, which considers the word "gypsy" to be offensive.

Spotted Garden Eel

Males battle each other over females and territory

Springbok

Springboks derive so much water from their food they could go their entire lives without drinking from large sources of water.

Squirrel

Small rodents found in woodlands worldwide!

Stick Insect

There are more than 3,000 different species!

Stiletto Snake

Because of their unique venom delivery system, stiletto snakes are almost impossible to hold safely in the usual way (with fingers behind the head) without being bitten.

Stonechat

Their songs are harsh and sound like two rocks hitting together.

Stork

They can’t sing like other birds.

Strawberry Hermit Crab

Striped Hyena

The striped hyenas usually mark their territories with the help of the scent gland secretions from their anal pouch.

Suchomimus

It walked on two legs and leaned forward

Sulcata Tortoise

Some cultures in Africa believe the sulcata tortoise is an intermediary between the people and their ancestors and gods.

Sunset Ball Python

Sunset ball pythons are bred with several other morphs to get designer colors.

Super Pastel Ball Python

Superworm

These larvae are native to Central and South America but now occur on every continent except Antarctica

Swallow

swallows have aerodynamic bodies for hunting in flight

Swallowtail Butterfly

N/A

Swallowtail Caterpillar

N/A

Swan

Populations have been affected by pollution!

Tailless Whip Scorpion

The average lifespan of these strange creatures is 5 to 10 years; however, tailless whip scorpions have been known to live up to a whopping 15 years in captivity!

Tarantula Hawk

Tarantula hawks are excellent pollinators, especially for milkweed.

Teacup Miniature Horse

Female teacup minis become sexually mature between 2 and 5 years old, but breeders typically wait until their horse is 3 before letting her reproduce to prevent complications.

Tenrec

Hedgeho-like nocturnal insectivore

Termite

Their mounds can be up to 9 meters tall!

Theropod

Some theropods had feathers and may have been ancestors of modern birds.

Thornback Ray

The skate with the biggest spines!

Thrush

The American robin is called the robin because its red breast reminded European settlers of the robin back in the old country.

Tick

They inject hosts with a chemical that stops them from feeling the pain of the bite

Tiger Beetle

The adult tiger beetle is one of the fastest land insects in the world

Titanosaur

Among the largest land animals to ever exist

Tortoise

Can live until they are more than 150 years old!

Tree Cricket

They make music with their wings

Tree Frog

Found in warmer jungles and forests!

Treehopper

The colors, shapes, and intricacies of treehoppers’ helmets makes them unique and visually stunning.

Tsetse Fly

Tsetse flies are large biting flies that live in the tropical regions of Africa.

Turaco

Their name means “banana-eater,” but they rarely ever eat bananas.

Turtles

Some species of aquatic turtles can get up to 70 percent of their oxygen through their butt.

Tussock Moth

N/A

Tussock Moth Caterpillar

N/A

Twig Snake

Twig snakes are among the few rear-fanged colubrids whose bite is highly venomous and potentially fatal.

Uromastyx (Spiny-Tailed Lizard)

Spiny-tailed lizards "sneeze" out salt!

Vervet Monkey

Rarely found more than 450m from trees!

Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

Vine Snake

A slender body and elongated snout give the vine snake a regal look.

Vinegaroon

Vinegaroons can spray 19 times before the glands are depleted

Viper

Vipers are one of the most widespread groups of snakes and inhabit most

Volcano Snail

The volcano snail lives comfortably in temperatures of up to 750 degrees Fahrenheit.

Vulture

There are 30 different species worldwide!

Warbler

Warblers are so called because of the trills of their song.

Warthog

Has two sets of tusks on it's face!

Wasp

There are around 75,000 recognised species!

Water Beetle

Water beetles bite; they use their legs to inject venomous digestive saliva

Water Buffalo

Has been domesticated for thousands of years!

Water Bug

Some species of water bugs can deliver a painful bite when handled.

Waterbuck

Often flee into water to escape predators

Weaver Bird

The weaver constructs an elaborate nest for the breeding season

Welsh Black Cattle

Welsh Black Cattle were once used as currency in Wales and referred to as “black gold”.

Welsh Springer Spaniel

Due to being so attached to their owners, the Welsh Springer Spaniel does not do well with being left alone and can experience separation anxiety.

Western Gorilla

There are two sub-species!

Western Green Mamba

Western Lowland Gorilla

One of the great apes!

Whimbrel

The fastidious whimbrel sometimes washes off its prey before it eats it. 

Whinchat

The whinchat can imitate the songs of at least a dozen other tpes of birds!

White Butterfly

This butterfly determines the smell and taste of a flower with its feet.

White Ferret / Albino Ferrets

There are two different types of white ferrets!

White Rhinoceros

The second largest animal on the land!

White-shouldered House Moth

The larva is the pest because a fully-grown white-shouldered house moth cannot feed; it can only absorb liquid

Wildebeest

Can trek more than 1,000 miles every year!

Willow Warbler

This bird molts twice a year.

Wolf

Thought to date back more than 300,000 years!

Wolf Spider

Carnivorous arachnid that hunts its prey.

Woodlouse

This animal can roll up into a ball

Woodlouse Spider

Unlike most spiders, woodlouse spiders don’t build a web.

Woodpecker

There are 200 different species!

Wool Carder Bee

N/A

Woolly Aphids

Another name for these fuzzy insects is "boogie-woogie aphids" because of their habit of lifting their posteriors and pulsing them in synchronized motions when threatened.

Worm

Doesn’t have eyes.

Wryneck

They feign death by making their bodies limp and closing their eyes.

Wyandotte Chicken

The Wyandotte chicken was the first dual-purpose American chicken bred for both meat and eggs!

Xerus

Squirrel that lives in burrows in Africa.

Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake

Sea snakes spend approximately 90% of their lives under water.

Yellow Belly Ball Python

The yellow belly gene is co-dominant and doesn't completely override other genes.

Yellow Cobra

The Yellow Cobra belong to one of the most dangerous families in the world.

Yellow Crazy Ant

One of the top 100 worst invasive species!

Yellow-faced Bee

N/A

Yellowjacket (Yellow Jacket)

Yellowjacket stings account for the majority of deaths from wasp stings

Zebra

Stripe patterns are unique to each individual!

Zebra Snake

The zebra snake is a black-hooded species of spitting cobra native to several of the southern countries of Africa.

Zebra Spitting Cobra

This snake can spit a distance of nine feet or further!

Zebu

There are around 75 different species!

Zonkey

The offspring of Zebra and Donkey parents!

Zorse

The offspring of a Zebra and Horse parents!

African Animals List

About the Author

Abby Parks

Abby Parks has authored a fiction novel, theatrical plays, short stories, poems, and song lyrics. She's recorded two albums of her original songs, and is a multi-instrumentalist. She has managed a website for folk music and written articles on singer-songwriters, folk bands, and other things music-oriented. She's also a radio DJ for a folk music show. As well as having been a pet parent to rabbits, birds, dogs, and cats, Abby loves seeking sightings of animals in the wild and has witnessed some more exotic ones such as Puffins in the Farne Islands, Southern Pudu on the island of Chiloe (Chile), Penguins in the wild, and countless wild animals in the Rocky Mountains (Big Horn Sheep, Mountain Goats, Moose, Elk, Marmots, Beavers).

Africa FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are other animals native to Africa?

Greater Kudu
Common Ostrich
African Civet
Dik-Dik
Wildebeest
Great Wild Crane
Mantled Guereza
Hartebeest
Warthog
Spotted Hyena
Okapi

What is an unusual animal one wouldn't expect to find in Africa?

There is a penguin colony in South Africa. The west coast near the Cape has cold Antarctic currents.

What are some of Africa's world records with regards to animals?

Four out of five of the world’s fastest land animals: The fastest is the cheetah, with speeds of 70mph. The wildebeest, lion and Thomson’s gazelle all run at about 50mph.
The world’s biggest frog: The Goliath frog is in Cameroon. It can grow to one foot long.
The world’s smallest butterfly: The Dwarf Blue Butterfly has a wingspan of only 0.5″ and is in South Africa.
The world’s largest and smallest chameleons: Both in Madagascar, which contains about half of all chameleon species in the world.
The only place you can find shoals of fresh water sardines: They are in Lake Tanganyika.
The world’s largest and heaviest beetle: The Goliath beetle can grow to 5 inches in length and weigh up to 0.25lbs. It lives in tropical Africa.
The largest primate, the Gorilla: Males weigh up to 200kg.
The largest cat, the Lion: It is also the largest of all African carnivores and an apex predator in any African ecosystem.
The second largest reptile, after the saltwater crocodile: The Nile crocodile grows to 5m or 20ft in length on average.
The largest seal colony in the southern hemisphere: Cape Cross in Namibia.

What are some extinct animals in Africa?

Animals in Africa that went extinct recently are the Northern White Rhino (2018) and the Western Black Rhino (2006). The next most recent extinct animal was the Bubal Hartebeest (1923).

Endangered Species

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 15:52:00 +0300

Endangered species are at a very high risk of becoming extinct in the wild or extinct. In the most recent iteration of the list the IUCN identifies 5,766 species as endangered. For the IUCN to add a species to the category it must meet any of the following criteria:

Population Reduction

A taxon’s population size is reduced by 70 percent or more over 10 years or three generations, whichever is longer, and the reduction causes are understood, reversible, and have stopped. For example, let’s pretend there is a bird species that traditionally had a population of 2000. Over 10 years, it drops to 600 because a logging company demolished its habitat. If laws are put in place that bar the logging company from continuing to fell trees in the area, then the IUCN will list it as “endangered” because the reason for the decline is understood and ceased.
A taxon’s population size is reduced by 50 percent or more over 10 years or three generations, whichever is longer, but the reduction cause may not be understood or reversible. For example, let’s say there is a bird species that traditionally had a population size of 2000. Over 10 years, it drops to 1000. However, scientists can’t figure out why they’re dying off. In this case, the IUCN would list it as “critically endangered” because the decimation is evident, but scientists can’t figure out why.
A taxon’s population size is reduced by 50 percent or more over 10 years or three generations, whichever is longer, and the animal is also battling habitat shrinkage or another threat.

Geographic Reduction

The area where a species can live is reduced to 5,000 square kilometers or less, or the area that the species currently and actually occupies is reduced to 500 square kilometers, and at least two of the following criteria are also true:

The population is known to exist in only one location.
Scientists observe or predict that the habitat will continue to shrink or be degraded, and there’s also a decline in subpopulations or the number of reproducing adults.
Scientists observe extreme fluctuations in the number of locations, subpopulations, or the number of reproducing adults.

Dangerously Low Number of Adults

A taxon’s population only has 2,500 or fewer adults left, and a 20 percent decline is anticipated within three years or one generation, whichever is longer. If no subpopulation of the taxon contains more than 250 adults, or 95 percent of the species’ adults live in one subpopulation, it will qualify as critically endangered
Scientists observe extreme fluctuations in the number of mature adults in a given population.

Expected Rapid Decline

Research and studies indicate that there is a 20 percent or greater chance that the species will be extinct in the wild within 20 years or five generations, whichever is longer.

Elephant

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 15:45:00 +0300

Elephant Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Proboscidea
Family: Elephantidae

Read our Complete Guide to Classification of Animals.

Elephant Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Elephant Locations

Elephant Facts

Main Prey: Grass, Fruit, Roots
Fun Fact: Spends around 22 hours a day eating!
Distinctive Feature: Large body size and long trunk
Habitat: Rainforest and flood plains
Diet: Herbivore
Average Litter Size: 1
Lifestyle: Herd
Favorite Food: Grass
Type: Mammal
Slogan: Spends around 22 hours a day eating!

Elephant Physical Characteristics

Color

Grey

Leather

25 mph

55 - 70 years

3,000kg - 5,400kg (6,500lbs - 12,000lbs)

Height

2m - 3.6m (7ft - 12ft)

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Elephant Pictures

View all of our Elephant pictures in the gallery.

The elephant is the largest land animal in the world.

These massive giants exhibit all kinds of complex behavior that in some ways mirror our own behavior but in other ways are distinct and unique to them. This has made them the subject of rigorous behavioral, anatomical, and cognitive studies, as well as a source of continued fascination in human culture, particularly in Indian, Sumatran, and some African mythologies and tales. But after decades of decline from poaching and habitat loss, the elephant is in a perilous state, and unless more is done to protect them, they may be on a path toward extinction.

5 Incredible Elephant Facts!

The elephant is one of the smartest animals on the planet. It is one of the few species that exhibit actual self-awareness and self-recognition. It appears to use tools, for example, as a fly swatter. And it has an excellent ability to learn and remember details. Scientists still debate whether elephants mourn their dead, but these creatures do appear to be capable of experiencing profound emotion.
The elephant makes a low, rumbling sound that can be heard up to 5 miles away.
The word pachyderm, which derives from the Greek term pachydermos, meaning “thick skinned,” refers to any mammal with a particularly tough hide, including the rhino, elephant, and hippo. None of these animals are closely related to each other, though.
An elephant can carry up to 7 tons, making it one of the world’s strongest animals. Learn about the strongest animals in the world here.
At one point, scientists believe there were 26 million elephants in Africa alone. Today the world population of elephants is estimated at less than half a million.

Make sure to give our ‘10 Incredible Elephant Facts‘ page a read if you’re looking for more facts on these amazing animals!

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Scientific Name

There are two main species of elephant: the African and the Asian

The scientific name for the family of elephants is Elephantidae. There are two living genera in this family. The genus of Loxodonta contains two species: the African bush elephant and the African forest elephant. The genus of Elephas contains only a single living species: the Asian elephant, which itself can be divided further into several distinct subspecies, including the Indian, Sumatran, Borneo, and Sri Lankan elephants. The fossil record contains many more species, including the woolly mammoth, which once walked the planet in the last ice age.

Articles Mentioning Elephant

See all of our entertaining and insightful animal articles.

Types

African Forest Elephant (Loxodanta cyclotis): Slightly smaller than its savannah-dwelling cousin, this massive herbivore also has rounder ears, straighter tusks, and more toenails, too. It roams through the forests of southern and central Africa.
African Bush Elephant (Loxodanta africana africana): Capable of weighing 12,000lbs, these giant mammals roam the savannahs of western, central, eastern, and southern Africa.

Borneo elephants (Elephas maximus borneensis): The smallest of all Asian elephants, this mammal evolved separately from all its relatives on Borneo and is known for having tusks which are straighter than usual and a longer tail on average.

Indian elephants (Elephas maximus indicus): These elephants’ stomachs are proportionate to their body size and their females may occasionally have small tusks. They are also darker than Sumatran elephants but lighter than their Sri Lankan relatives.

Sri Lankan elephants (Elephas maximus maximus): The largest of the three subspecies, these giants are also the darkest too. Like Indian elephants, they have 19 pairs of ribs.

Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus): The lightest of Asian elephants, these herbivores have 20 pairs of ribs. They also have the least amount of discoloration out of all three subspecies.

Appearance

An elephant’s trunk is surprisingly nimble and strong and can contain up to 150,000 muscle fibers

Elephants resemble no other animal on the planet. They are distinguished by the huge bodies, stout legs, thin tails, rounded ears, strong trunks, and in some elephants, the ivory tusks. These long tusks, which grow throughout the elephant’s life, are really just incisor teeth; they allow the elephant to dig for food and water, defend itself, and lift heavy objects with ease. Four molars, each one about the size of a brick, also line the mouth. Another important aspect of the elephant’s anatomy is the thick, wrinkled skin, which can retain about 10 times the amount of water as smooth skin.

Their eats are also a unique adaptation and give elephants some of the best hearing among all animals on Earth. On average, elephants can hear the calls from another elephant as far as 2.5 miles away!

The elephant is defined most of all by its size. These impressive creatures stand about 10 feet tall, reach about 18 to 24 feet long, and weigh between 4 and 8 tons. The largest specimen ever recorded stood 13 feet tall and weighed a massive 12 tons. Much of the skeletal structure is taken up by the huge skull, which supports the large ears, tusks, and trunk. The skull contains big cavities that reduce the weight without diminishing the strength. Apart from several other physical differences, Asian elephants differ from African elephants in their smaller size and the reduced chance of growing tusks. The Borneo elephant is the smallest subspecies of all; it’s sometimes called the pygmy elephant for this exact reason. Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan elephants appear to be the least likely of all species/subspecies to grow tusks from their skull.

Trunk

The elephant trunk, which actually derives from a fusion of the nose and upper lip, is an impressive instrument that has many useful functions related to touch, smell, and communication. The trunk contains finger-like projections on the tip (the Asian elephant has one and the African elephant two), which enable it to grasp objects as small as a piece of straw. The trunk contains around 150,000 separate muscle fibers with no bones or cartilage and very little fat. This enables it to perform very fine movements that somewhat belies the elephant’s rather hulking appearance.

Ears

The large, rounded ears appear to be a very effective organ for keeping the elephant cool. The size of the ears is a function of the number of blood vessels they contain. This allows an enormous amount of warm blood to flow through the capillaries and release excess body heat into the environment. This effect can be amplified when the elephant flaps its ears.

Evolution

The woolly mammoth actually has a living relative today: the Asian elephant

Before there were elephants, there were Gomphotheres, tusked, long-jawed herbivores which munched on vegetation in what is now Africa, Eurasia, and the Americas, during the Miocene, Pliocene, and Pleistocene.

By the early Pleistocene they were extinct. But they had already given rise to the elephantids. As the Miocene was morphing into the Pliocene about 5 million years ago, the Loxodonta came into being. It would be followed by the Elephas and Mammuthus shortly afterwards.

Of these three lineages, the Loxodonta remained in Africa, while the Mammuthus expanded to Eurasia.The Elephas not only spread to Eurasia, but even went as far as North America.

During the Pleistocene, the Elephas also gave rise to the Elephas platycephus, the ancestor of the Asian elephant, while the Mammuthus gave rise to the Mammuthus primigenius, more commonly known as the woolly mammoth. Fun fact: The Asian elephant is actually the closest living relative of this hairy pachyderm which became extinct 4,000 years ago.

The passage of time saw these creatures develop into the much loved lumbering mammals we know today. As their diets changed, their teeth also changed in size while their upper second incisors morphed into tusks.

Their necks became shorter to provide greater support to their enlarged heads. Which meant their trunks had to lengthen to make up for their necks.

And the result? The largest land mammals in Africa and Asia.

Behavior

Elephants may use their trunks to communicate with each other

The social life of many elephants revolves around herds and small groups. An elephant herd consists mostly of closely related female cows and their calves, which are led by a single matriarch who helps the entire group find food and water, avoid predators, and locate a shelter. The oldest daughter is almost always poised to inherit the matriarchal position upon the mother’s death. A typical herd consists of around 10 individuals. If the herd grows too large, then some elephants may split off and form a new semi-independent group. The male bulls, on the other hand, either wander alone or form bachelor groups with specific dominance hierarchies. The males are much more likely to gather together during times of scarcity or in the presence of threats. They only come into contact with females when they want to mate.

Elephants have all manner of ways to communicate with each other. The trunk seems to play a critical part in this. A raised trunk seems to indicate a greeting. A lower-ranked member of the herd will also place its tip into the mouth of a higher-ranked individual, perhaps as a conciliatory gesture. Despite the iconic trumpeting sound, many of the noises produced by the elephant to communicate over long distances are actually too low for the human ear to detect. They also produce a growling noise from the stomach that seems to signify to others they are okay.

Depending on the availability of food, the elephant may spend up to 18 hours a day feeding. The rest of the time is occupied by sleeping, bathing, cleaning itself, and bonding with the rest of the group. Playing and fighting are integral parts of their behavior. They tend to spar playfully with other elephants close to their own age.

In the wild elephants only sleep about two hours per day and prefer to sleep while standing up. In captivity, elephants will sleep closer to six hours per night and with no predators to worry about will sleep lying down.

Habitat

Elephants once lived in the Middle East and East Asia

The elephant inhabits the savannas, deserts, marshes, and forests near rivers of sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The Indian, Sumatran, Borneo, and Sri Lankan elephants all generally correspond to those particular geographical regions. But this range is actually reduced from its greatest historical extent. The Asian elephant, for example, once had a much larger range stretching between Syria and China. The African forest elephant is now reduced to a small piece of land in the Congo basin of western Africa.

Diet

The elephant is an herbivorous mammal whose only source of nutrients is vegetation. It needs an enormous amount of food to sustain itself. A typical individual consumes up to 330 pounds of food in a single day, although up to half of this may pass through the body without being properly digested.

What does the elephant eat?

Elephants will eat almost any type of vegetation, including grasses, leaves, fruits, twigs, roots, and bark. The exact composition of its diet tends to vary based on location and season. Herbivores generally have two different strategies for obtaining food: browsing, in which they selectively feed on shrubs and trees above the ground, and grazing, in which they lightly feed on vegetation along the ground. Many elephants are both browsers in the dry season and grazers in the wet season. African forest elephants are primarily browsers but also mix in a lot of fruits.

(And no, in case you were wondering, elephants do not eat peanuts!)

Predators and Threats

Lions are one of a young elephant’s greatest threats

Aside from natural predators, the animal is under threat from poaching (due to the value of their tusks), habitat loss, and growing conflict with people. Some of these threats are amplifying each other. As the animal’s natural habitat diminishes owing to the encroachment of humans on wild territory, it comes into contact with cultivated farmlands and settlements which can result in trampled crops and damaged properties. This in turn may cause people to retaliate against them.

What eats the elephant?

A full-grown adult elephant faces no consistent threats in the wild. Its massive size and thick hide make it almost impervious to attacks. However, a juvenile calf may be vulnerable to hyenas, lions, tigers, leopards, and African wild dogs, so it seeks protection from the group.

Reproduction, Babies, and Lifespan

Depending on its gender, an elephant may maintain ties with its mother all its life

As they reach sexual maturity, male bulls undergo a periodic transformation called musth in which their testosterone levels surge to 10 times their normal amount. This is characterized by aggressive behavior, enlarged temporal glands behind the eyes, and a continuous dribble of urine as they walk. The musth is intended to advertise the bull’s physical condition and shape, both to the females who may be looking for a mate and to the males who may be looking out for competitors. Males in musth are known to fight with each other, which rarely results in death. Females also release signals about their readiness to mate in various secretions. One male can have multiple female mates in his lifetime.

After mating, the female carries a single calf for about 22 months, longer than any other species of mammal. The baby is able to stand up and walk within an hour of its birth. However, it still requires the protection and care of the entire herd. If an adult senses danger, then it will make a loud trumpeting sound. The herd will then form a protective ring around the calves, facing outward to deter the predator. While the female herd may be doting caretakers, the father plays almost no role in the actual development of the offspring.

It takes a long time for a baby to master the nuances of elephant life. In the 13 to 20 years it takes to reach full maturity, these animals need to develop their coordination, learn social nuances, and develop bonds. It’s been suggested that a poorly-reared elephant may exhibit some anti-social behavior. Meanwhile, it takes a full five or six years before the baby is fully weaned from its mother’s milk. The calf packs on 2 to 3 pounds every day over the first year alone. Upon growing fully, the females tend to stay with the group, while the males tend to leave and forge their own path in life. They can easily live in excess of 50 years in the wild.

The oldest elephant to ever live reached 88 or 89 years old and lived in captivity in India. Indian elephants tend to live longer than their African counterparts.

Population

Less than 500,000 elephants of both species remain in the wild

According to the IUCN Red List, which publishes a list of threatened species, both the African bush elephant and forest elephant are considered to be vulnerable species. Only about 415,000 remain in the wild. This is a fall of some 90% since the early 20th century. The Asian elephant is in an even worse state. With only about 45,000 remaining and its population heavily fragmented, it is currently classified as endangered by the IUCN Red List.

Conservationists are focusing their efforts on habitat protection and the end of poaching. Following an international agreement in 1989 that banned the ivory trade, poaching rates did temporarily subside. This was further bolstered by China’s ban on its domestic ivory market in 2018. Conservation groups are also working with local people to reduce negative interactions and create elephant corridors and safe places for them to roam. However, due to low birth rates and long maturation times, it takes a while for elephant populations to replenish.

Elephants in the Zoo

Due to their food and space requirements, only a few zoos are privileged enough to harbor these animals. The San Diego Zoo has a unique area called the Elephant Odyssey habitat that contains both African and Asian elephants. These animals are also present at the Indianapolis Zoo, the Maryland Zoo, the Seneca Park Zoo, the North Carolina Zoo, the Los Angeles Zoo, the Cincinnati Zoo, and Zoo Atlanta.

Similar Animals

Asian Elephants: Consisting of different subspecies, these elephants are smaller than their African relatives. Find out who they are truly related to and key differences between them and their cousins an entire ocean away.
African Forest Elephants: They roam the dense thick forest with an ease which would be beyond their larger relatives. But what other differences set them apart from their African cousins? Find out here.
African Bush Elephants: Extremely gregarious and social, these giant mammals prefer to roam the open savannah. Find out all there is to know about the largest land mammals on the planet.

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About the Author

Dana Mayor

I love good books and the occasional cartoon. I am also endlessly intrigued with the beauty of nature and find hummingbirds, puppies, and marine wildlife to be the most magical creatures of all.

Elephant FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Are Elephants herbivores, carnivores, or omnivores?

Elephants are Herbivores, meaning they eat plants.

What Kingdom do Elephants belong to?

Elephants belong to the Kingdom Animalia.

What class do Elephants belong to?

Elephants belong to the class Mammalia.

What phylum to Elephants belong to?

Elephants belong to the phylum Chordata.

What family do Elephants belong to?

Elephants belong to the family Elephantidae.

What order do Elephants belong to?

Elephants belong to the order Proboscidea.

What type of covering do Elephants have?

Elephants are covered in Leathery skin.

In what type of habitat do Elephants live?

Elephants live in rainforests and floodplains.

What is the main prey for Elephants?

Elephants eat grass, fruit, and roots.

What are some predators of Elephants?

Predators of Elephants include humans, hyenas, and wildcats.

What are some distinguishing features of Elephants?

Elephants have large bodies and long trunks.

How many babies do Elephants have?

The average number of babies an Elephant has is 1.

What is an interesting fact about Elephants?

Elephants spend around 22 hours a day eating!

What is the lifespan of an Elephant?

Elephants can live for 55 to 70 years.

How fast is an Elephant?

An Elephant can travel at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.

How much does an elephant weigh?

An elephant weighs around 3 to 8 tons, or about the same size as a commercial truck. The females are generally smaller than the males.

How many species of elephants are there?

There are currently three living species of elephants: the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant.

Are elephants black?

No, elephants tend to have grayish skin, but some may appear brown or red in certain circumstances.

Why should we protect elephants?

Apart from their value as intelligent creatures, elephants also play an important role in the ecosystem. They help to prevent vegetation from growing out of control. They disperse undigested seeds around the environment. And they create waterholes for other animals.

Do elephants die when tusks are removed?

An elephant can survive the removal of the tusks, but since the tusks are composed of living tissue, it is very painful and dangerous to the elephant and also reduces its quality of life.

What are the differences between an elephant and woolly mammoth?

The key differences between a woolly mammoth vs elephant are their appearance, history, species, and habitat.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.

Sources

San Diego Zoo, Available here: https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/elephant
WWF, Available here: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/elephant
WWF, Available here: https://www.wwf.org.uk/learn/fascinating-facts/elephants
BBC Earth, Available here: http://www.bbc.com/earth/story/20141101-male-elephants-have-a-sweet-side

Serengeti National Park- Tanzania

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 02:17:00 +0300

Serengeti National Park.

It's one of the National Parks found Tanzania, The park it's famous from the large migration of wildebeest moving from Tanzania to Kenya at Maasai mara and then returns back to Tanzania.