Facts and Features of Racoon

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
class Mammalia
Order: Carnivores
Family: Raccoon
Genre: Procyon
Scientific name: Procyon Lotor
Type: Mammal
Diet: Omnivorous
Size: 42-71 inches (16-28in)
Weight: 3.7-9kg (7.7-£ 19.8)
Maximum speed: 25 km / h (15 mph)
Life Period: 12-16 years
Lifestyle: Solitary
Preservation status: Least Concern
Color:White,Brown,Gray,Black
Skin type: Fur
Favorite food: Fish
Habitat: forest areas near water
Average Litter Size: 5
Main Prey: fish, nuts, berries, corn
Attackers: Bobcat, foxes, wolves, mountain lions
Distinctive Features: black mask on the face and agile hands and feet

The raccoon is a medium sized mammal like a bear found only in North America.As a drastic appearance of raccoons in other countries,it can be also found now in Japan and Europe continent.The average size in length of racoon is around 70 cm from the nose tip to the bottom of tail.A well grown raccoon can weight up to 10 kilos and live up to 20 years in environment.However, Raccoons tend to have a life period expectancy which is quite lower.

Formerly racoons were living in the dense wooded areas and large forests but now they are surviving in mountains and moist surfaces.The raccoon also has approached human communities that raccoons are able to find food very easily  but they are considered as pests by many domestic owners.

Raccoons are omnivorous animals that survive on  insects, plants and small animals such as fish and birds rarely.Raccoons are usually nocturnal, but it is not unusual to find during the day.

The most distinctive feature of the raccoon is the black mask is around eyes.The raccoon also has a thick layer of skin that keeps it warm during cold winters and raccoons are extremely sensitive and front paws of raccoons have been noticed turning door knobs and opening jars .

Raccoons are desperate for food and are often found near water. Raccoons were observed washing their food in water before eating !Although the reasons behind these are not well known ,it is believed that the sense of touch of paws is heightened when watered.

About ten different species of raccoon that vary in size ,but differ slightly in appearance ,found throughout the Americas.The sense of touch is the very necessary and its front paws are covered with a spiny coat to protect them when they aren't eating.

Raccoons tend to mate in between late winter to starting of spring ,from January to March.However, further south raccoon species have been known to mate after the mating season often goes to the end of  June.After a incubation period of about two months, the female will give birth to about 5 baby raccoons ,also known as kits or cubs.

Raccoon kits are born blind and deaf , with the two senses that appear in the first month.Cubs aren't born hairless, but have a layer of light-colored skin,with distinctive black mask to be visible from birth.Raccoon kits are usually about 10 cm long at birth and weigh about 75 g.

Foot Data of Racoon

• Raccoons have four feet with five toes on their front hind legs that give greater stability during running and climbing .
• The bottom of the feet of raccoons are bare and flat sole that makes the raccoon waddle rather than walk .
• The front legs are similar if the raccoon hands are like human being , both in appearance and ability to allow raccoons to hold things easily .
• The larger hind legs give more power during running and balance when the front feet in use.
• Raccoons have very nimble fingers on their front paws that allow them to untie knots, turn doorknobs and even open bottles.

Teeth Data of Racoon

1. Raccoons have 40 teeth including four long, sharp canine teeth in the front of the mouth.
2. Raccoons use their hand- like front paws to hold food before they use their teeth to chew and swallow.
3. The sharp canines in the front of mouth followed by premolars increase in size as they move into the mouth of Raccoon .
4. The premolars and molars are used to grind and chew their food until they are able to swallow.
5. Raccoons have an unique habit of washing their food when they are near water ,however ,raccoons do not exceed a tasty treat , if no water is available.

Facts and Features of Beautiful Quetzal

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum : Chordata

Class: Aves

Sort : Trogoniformes

Family: Trogonidae

Genre: Pharomachrus , Euptilotis

Scientific name: Pharomachrus , Euptilotis

Common name : Quetzal

Other Name ( s ) : Trogon

Group: Bird

Number of species : 6

Location: Central America

Habitat: moist cloud forests and high

Color: Green, Blue, Red, White , Bronze, Grey, Brown

Skin Type: Feathers

Dimensions ( H): 35cm - 41 cm ( 14in - 16in )

Weight: 205g - 225g ( 7 oz - 8 oz)

Diet: Omnivorous

Prey : fruits, berries, insects

Predators : squirrels , owls , hawks

Lifestyle: Twilight

Group behavior : Solitary

Life Time: 20 - 25 years

Sexual Maturity Period: 5 - 6 years

incubation Time: 18 days

Average size of the clutch : 2

Name Of The Young: Chick

Fledging Age 4 weeks

Preservation status : Threatened

Estimated Population Size: 50,000

Greatest threat : the loss of habitat and trapping

Distinctive feature : Calls soft and deep, but loud

Trivia:Male feathered tail can be 1m long !

Classification and Evolution of Quetzal

The Quetzal is a medium sized bird that lives in the Central America tropical rainforests from southern Mexico to Panama.There are six sub-species of Quetzal which are located in different geographical locations including the Golden-headed Quetzal, the white-tipped Quetzal, the Pavonine Quetzal, the Eared Quetzal,Crested Quetzal and the most well-known Resplendent Quetzal, each of which belong to the family of  Trogon birds.The Quetzal is a bird with extremely colorful plumage in metallic colour and is widely regarded as one of the most amazingly, beautiful birds in the world.They are best known for the long tail feathers of the male.

Anatomy and appearance of Quetzal

The Quetzal males display the deep red chest and belly along with its bodies consisting of metallic green or blue colour.The male Quetzal also has a distinctive tuft of golden green feathers that consists a crest above the head and long double tail feathers that can grow up to one meter length.Although females do not grow like males but have same colouration to their male counterparts with their plumage not quite bright.The deep red chest is often much duller or even gray (as is the metallic green), and have colored heads of gray or bronze edged with green. As for the other members of the trogon family, at the foot of the Quetzal are unique with two facing forward and two backward on each foot that helps while reaching  high up in the trees.

Distribution of Quetzal

In the mountainous rainforests of Central America the Quetzal are found ,where they tend to prefer high mountain ranges at altitudes between 5,000 and 10,000 meters.The Quetzal likes to live in humid tropical forests areas that are incredibly moist,cooler and contain dense vegetation. Rainforests are one of the most successful living area for the Quetzal,where high humidity level makes fog in the forest. Quetzals lives in trees holes near the top of the canopy which is designed and build by them with their beaks, or that have been made by woodpeckers.The plumage of the Quetzal means that these birds are perfectly camouflaged among the lush vegetation that surrounds them.

Behaviour and Lifestyle of Quetzal

As the feet design of Quetzal and it is very lazy in nature so due to this reason it is rarely available on the ground to walk around .The Quetzal perches high up in the tree canopy,where their voices are almost as distinctive as their appearance.Depending on the situation,they make various kinds of calls which are soft and loud.The Quetzal is vocal when there is a lot of fog at dawn and dusk and rarely call during very sunny or windy atmosphere.Although the sounds of males tend to be more deep than those of females ,during the mating season the sounds produced are described as "whining."The Quetzal is also popular to make whistle-like calls at dawn and sunset to stake it's claim on its territory.

Reproduction and Life Cycles of Quetzal

It uses the strong beaks to make holes in rotting trees so that they can make nest.The female lays between one and three eggs that are incubated in the hole by both female and the male alternately.However, due to the fact that the male has feathers tail that can grow up to 3 feet long , they are often seen protruding out of  the nest when he is sitting on the eggs.Incubation lasts until  three weeks and when the chicks hatch are born with their closed eyes and are fed by their parents until they are strong enough to move. Quetzal chicks can usually fly from the moment there are three weeks old and once are confident enough , they will flee the nest to find a territory of their own (although they remain close to their father for their first years ).

Diet and Prey of Quetzal

The Quetzal is an omnivorous animal who is a skilled hunter ,swooping down and catching its prey before eating it while still in the air.They have a diet of mainly fruit-based and in particular encourage small avocado -like fruits that belong to the laurel family and are known to gather in large numbers around fruit trees.When their is a scarcity of fruits,the Quetzal eats insects and small animals such as frogs, lizards,snails and larvae provide the nutrition needed.The Quetzal plays a vital role in keeping with its surroundings,as the seeds of fruits and berries are scattered throughout the forest during eating.

Attackers and threats of Quetzal

Despite the fact that the feathers provide this beautifully colored bird with good camouflage in the forests are not particularly good  fliers and instead rely more on hopping among the branches.The Quetzal is therefore relatively easy prey for other animals to capture prey and mammals such as the Kinkajou , along with squirrels,hawks and owls.Due to the human settlements and agriculture decrease their areas of survival,so it is the most dangerous threat for Quetzal.

Features of Quetzal

Although Quetzal male is distinctly known for its incredibly long tail feathers ,do not begin to grow until they are three years ,with many individuals do not reach sexual maturity until they are almost six. The resplendent Quetzal is also known as the Guatemalan Quetzal and is not just a national symbol of the nation, but the currency in Guatemala is actually known as the " Quetzal ".The Quetzal belong to the family ' Trogon ' which is the Greek word for " gnawing ",which is a distinctive feature of these birds.

Human relation with Quetzal

The Quetzal was seen as a sacred animal to the ancient indigenous people including the Aztecs and the Maya and was often referred to as the Rare jewel bird of the world, together with regularity is depicted in native art .The long tail feathers of  males were also used in garments worn by royalty.Today, however, even if the Quetzal is still a valuable species  including Guatemala and Costa Rica countries , their numbers are decreasing due to both human interference in their natural range and capture them to exploit.

Conservation Status and Today's Life of Quetzal

The Quetzal is now considered as threatened species in it's  surroundings, as the population in their characteristic habitats are declining.Although there are protected forest areas where the will not be irritated ,are becoming popular tourist attractions ,both for birdwatchers and animal organizations.In some parts of natural surroundings ,does not survive very successful in captivity means that they are caught in the wild on a regular basis ,resulting in a decrease in the number of population.

Facts and Appearance of Panther

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum : Chordata

Class : Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family : Felidae

Genre : Panthera

Scientific Name:Panthera pardus ,Panthera ounces

Common Name : Panther

Otro nombre ( s ) :Black Panther ,Black Leopard,Black Jaguar

Group: Mammal

Number of species : 31

Location : Asia , Africa, Latin

Habitat : Forest, wetlands and grasslands

Color : Dark Coffee , Black

Skin Type :Fur 

Size ( L ) : 1.1 m - 1.9 m ( 43in - 75 inches)

Weight: 36 kg - 160 kg ( 79 lbs - 350 lbs)

Maximum speed : 114kph ( 71 mph )

Diet : Carnivorous

Prey : deer , tapir , wild boar

Predators : Human , Lion , Hyena

Lifestyle : Nocturnal

Group behavior : Solitary

Life Period: 12-15 years

Edad of sexual maturity : 3-4 years

Gestation period : 90-105 days

Average Litter Size : 3

Name of Young : Cub

Weaning Age : 3 months

Conservation Status: Threatened

Size of the estimated population : Unknown

Major threatens :Loss of Habitats 

More distinctive trait : bright green eyes

Funny facts: prefer to hunt for the night than in the day it !

Classification of Panther 

The Panther (also known as the Black Panther ) is known as the largest member of the big cat family found in Asia,Africa and Americas.The panther is the general name used to refer to any black color feline of big cat family,especially leopards and jaguars.The panther is an powerful animal that has adapted easily to different habitats around  world and is known to be one of the strongest climbers in felines.Despite the panther is not technically classified as a separate species,which are considered to be endangered by many because of the decreased number of the leopards and jaguars in their environment.

Anatomy and appearance of Panther 

The panther tends to be dark brown to black in color and is identical to the feline species to which it belongs .The only exception to this is the Florida Panther in the southeastern region of the U.S.,which is believed to be a subspecies of  Cougar and is quite rarely dark brown and tends to have speckled appearance.Unlike leopards and jaguars ,the Panther has no spots on its body or tail ,but has a bright layer of dark skin. Panthers have small heads with strong jaws and green eyes  and tend to have hind legs that are larger and slightly longer than the front.As a member of the big cat family ,the panther is not only one of the largest cats in the world, but is also able to roar ,which other felines out of this group are not able to.

Distribution and Habitat of Panther 

Panthers found in three of the world's continents ,with its location in terms of whether or not a black leopard or Black Jaguar.There are 30 different subspecies of leopard found in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa and the once natural range of Jaguar extends throughout Central and South America and even in parts of the U.S. ,Panther has become very adaptable animal found in a variety of different habitats.Although most commonly found in tropical forests and deciduous ,the panther also be found inhabiting both swamps and marshes, along with grasslands and hostile areas like deserts and mountains.Along with a number of the world's largest cat ,the panther is becoming rare in the wild ,mainly due to habitat loss of deforestation.

Behavior and lifestyle of Panther

The panther is a intelligent animal ,which is rarely seen by people in nature as they are usually very quiet and cautious animals.It's dark brown fur camouflages enables both in the surrounding forest and almost invisible in the darkness of night.The panther is a solitary animal that consists a nocturnal lifestyle ,spending much of the day hours resting high in the trees.Since both the leopard and jaguar,panthers are amazing climbers and not just resting in trees but are also able to keep eyes on prey without being seen.The panther is very powerful and fearless animal is threatned by many fact as they are  very aggressive.Panther is very territorial especially males whose home ranges coupled with those of a number of females and are threatened by another male.

Reproduction and Life Cycles of Panther

Despite living in different parts of the world ,although there are only two different species of big cats that are considered panthers, leopards and jaguars are actually closely related.Black Leopards and Jaguars often occur in the same litter as spotted cubs with female generally gives birth to 2-4 cubs after a gestation period of about three months.Panther cubs are born blind and open their eyes after they are about two weeks old. They are very vulnerable to attackers especially when left by mother who must hunt for diet.By the moment there are a few months old begin to accompany mother in  search of food and often do not leave it until two years and have an established territory for themselves.

Diet and Prey of Panther

The panther is an carnivores animal and one of the most feared and powerful predators in it's environment. The dark skin of the panther makes it almost impossible to find  which means can move through the forest completely invisible at night for hunting.Although most of  hunting appears to be on the ground, they are also known to hunt from trees.The living surrounding of panther decides the actual diet in spite of medium to large sized herbivores comprise the major part of many big cats.Animals such as deer,wild boar,Warthogs, tapir and Antelope are hunted by Panthers ,along with the smaller species ,such as birds and rabbits in larger prey is scarce.

Attackers and Fears of Panther

The jaguar is the largest feline in the America and Panthers in New World are the dominant predators within their environments.Those found in Africa and Asia are sometimes prey to other large carnivores such as lions and hyenas ,but the most common predator and the greatest threat to the Panthers are people.Not only these animals were hunted by people, but they have also undergone drastic habitat loss particularly due to deforestation , increasing both human settlements and agriculture.Population figures of big cats are declining worldwide and when they are being directed into smaller pockets of natural habitat they are getting rarer than they already available.

Facts and Features of Panther

According to science,although technically only black leopards and jaguars are generally regarded ,the term is also used to describe a series of dark hair cats in their native habitats  including lions, tigers , cougars ,Puma and lynx.Some Panthers are actually able to swim ,but not those who are leopards, and jaguars are known to have attraction towards water.Not only these prefer flooded forests ,but spend a significant amount of time swimming,playing and hunting in the water.

Relationship of humans with Panther

Big Cats of the world have been hunted by people as both trophies and for their skin especially in the last two centuries.This caused huge declines in population numbers of leopards and jaguars with them after have completely disappeared from some areas.Panthers have also been subjected to severe habitat degradation in much of Asia,Africa and America, which means that these elusive predators are now even rarer.They are rarely seen by people who are really just always aware of the presence of a panther by its tracks on the floor and scratch marks on trees.Also Panthers are often referred to as " the ghost of the forest ' .

Today's Status and Life of Panther 

Despite the fact that panther is not a species considered by science ,both leopards and jaguars are increasingly vulnerable along of its natural range and listed as threatned species by IUCN.However,due to the fact that two individuals carrying genes  mate to produce a Black Panther and the chance of this is diminished due to loss of natural habitats  ,many wildlife experts consider these as endangered animals worldwide .

Facts and Features of Octopus

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Cephalopoda
Order: octópodo
Family: Octopodidae
Scientific Name: Octopus Vulgaris
Type: Mollusca
Diet: Omnivorous
Size: 0.3-4m (1-13ft)
Weight: 5-75kg (11,165 pounds)
Maximum speed: 44 kmh (27 mph)
Duration of the Life: 2-15 years
Lifestyle: Solitary
Preservation Status: Least Concern
Color: Tan, Brown,Red,Orange,Blue,Purple
Skin Type:Smooth
Favorite Eating: Crabs
Habitat:In Tropical and temperate waters 
Average Litter Size: 80
Prey: Crabs, Fish,Scallops
Attackers: Eels, sharks, dolphins
Special Features:Eight tentacles with suckers and ink bag

The octopus group covers around one third of world cephalopod population,with around 300 species found in the waters.The octopus can be found in all oceans of the world,with the octopus that vary in size from a few centimeters to several feets depending on the species.It often consists of a very sharp beak and also it has eight arms forever ( unless have been lost ).Most octopus species often have arms pumping with circular pads on.

Octopus life depends on it's species,with many species of octopus having an average age of round 6 months .Some species of octopus ,however,the larger octopus species can live for several years.The octopus is well known for being a master of disguise and is able to integrate into virtually any background with its elaborate camouflage.The octopus not only uses to advantage both to hide from potential prey and attackers,but also is believed to play a role in male octopuses mating display in order to attract a female octopus .

Also believed that octopus has three hearts, out of which two are used for pumping blood through gills and another for pumping pale blue blood throughout  the body.In general, most species of octopus have no internal or external skeleton which means that is able to compress itself into tight places.The octopus is known to be the most intelligent of all invertebrates and octopus uses this to  advantage by using mainly disguising.

Facts and Features of Neapolitan Mastiff

Name: Neapolitan Mastiff

Origin: Italy

Size: 69cm (28 inches)

Weight: 75kg (165 lbs)

Duration of life: 10 years

Group: mastif

The Neapolitan Mastiff is fearless,active,alarmed and extremely protective of its home and family.They prefer to live with family and generally love to remain in and around the home.They are not a dog to go for a walk.

Like a guardian breed,are very wary of strangers,but usually if see that it's master is relaxed, soon accept them. The Neapolitan Mastiff generally not barks unless it is under provocation, renowned for sneaking intruders instead of alerting their presence first.

Although this Neapolitan Mastiff breed can be very stubborn, but learns things very easily and quickly.Once understands what it's master wants, it follows.They have a very aggressive behaviour and must be taught from puppy hood that its master is the boss, not the reverse.

Facts and Features of South and Central America Macaw

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Psittaciformes

Family: Psittacidae

Genre: Arini

Scientific Name: Arini

Type: Bird

Diet: Omnivorous

Size (H): 77cm ​​- 101cm (30in - 39in)

Spread: 87cm - 141cm (34in - 56in)

Weight: 0.8 kg - 2 kg (2 lbs - 4.4 lbs)

Maximum speed: 24 kmh (15 mph)

Life Span: 50-60 years

Lifestyle:Flock

Condition: In Danger

Color: Red, Blue, Yellow, Green,White

Skin Type:Feathers

Favorite food: Fruit

Habitat: tropical jungle and rainforest

Normal chick size: 2

Prey also: fruits, nuts,Seeds, insects

Attackers: humans, monkeys,large birds

Distinguishing features:Coloured feathers

The macaw is a colorful parrot found in South and Central America.There are 17 species of macaws are found in the rainforests of South America.Many different species of macaws are considered today as the endangered animals.

The macaw is an omnivore and feeds on nuts,fruits along insects,eggs and small mammals and reptiles.The macaw is known to sleep through the night means that the macaw is a diurnal animal and in morning flies long distance for  finding  food.

This is one of the largest parrot species around the world,with the average adult macaw grows to over a meter in height.The macaw is well known for its wide variety of brightly colored feathers are often found in colors including blue,red,yellow and green.

Macaws have become very popular as pets and there is a thriving black market of some of the rarest breeds of macaw which contributes to their endangered status.Populations decline was also due to reason that the natural  habitat is being destroyed by deforestation,that is happening throughout Central and South America at an rapid rate.

The macaw has a large and powerful beak which helps to break the shells of nuts and seeds more easily. Like other species,macaws have four toes on each foot,with two toes in front and two toes facing backwards.This adaptation of the foot helps the macaw to grip the prey and tree branches more easily and allows it to perch on the trees without sliding.

Macaws are known to be very sociable birds and intelligent and often seen together in large groups of up to 30.Macaws communicate with each other using voice calls as squawking and screaming.Some species of macaws are even known to copy human sounds .

The macaw is one of animals around world are known to have the same breeding partner till death.Macaw couples do not breed together,but share their food and help to groom each other.When the female has laid her eggs (usually 2, but generally more) sits on her eggs to incubate them while the male  hunts and collect food for both.The chicks are born after a month.

Macaws are known by in humans areas where they live and have been known to be hunted by local tribes for their brightly colored feathers.It is also highly respected and even appears in a Brazilian bank notes.

Facts and Features of Labrador Retriever

Name: Labrador Retriever

Origin: Great Britain(G.B)

Size in length: 62cm (24 inches)

Weight: 34 kg (75 lbs)

Life Period: 15 years

Group: Gun Dog

Labradors are friendly and versatile breed, well adjusted to a wide range of functions as well as making them very good pets.Generally are not excessively prone to being territorial,aggressive destructive,hypersensitive or other difficult  traits which sometimes manifest in a variety of breeds ,and  they are excellent retrievers as the name suggests.

As an extension of which,they instinctively enjoy holding objects and even hands or arms in their mouths,you can do with great technique ( it can also carry an egg in his mouth without breaking).Also known to have a very soft in the mouth,as a result of being bred to retrieve game such as waterfowl. They are prone to chewing things ( though they can be trained for this behavior ).The coat of the Labrador Retriever repels water to some expand ,thus facilitating the extensive use in waterfowl hunting.

Facts and Features of Kangaroos

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Diprotodontia

Family: Macropodidae

Genre: Macropus

Scientific Name: Macropus giganteus

Type: Mammals

Diet: Omnivorous

Size: 0.6-1.5m (1,9-4.9 ft)

Weight: 18-95kg (200 lbs-40)

Maximum speed: 56 kmh (35 mph)

Life Period: 4-10 years

Lifestyle: Sociable

Life status :Threatened

Color:Tan, Brown, Grey

Skin Type:Fur

Favorite Eating Habit: Grass

Habitat:Dry forest, grassland and deserts

Average litter size: 2

Main Prey: Grass,Seeds,flowers

Attackers: Human Dingo

Features:Hop on hind legs and Pouch on female 

The kangaroos are indigenous to Australia and the Indonesian island of New Guinea.Although kangaroos are often congregate in groups,kangaroos are generally fairly solitary mammals but also are known to be social animals,as with other kangaroos.The kangaroos have a deep pouch in which to carry their young.A baby kangaroo is known as joey.Kangaroos eat plants,nuts,berries and insects that kangaroos rummage in the arid wildness.

Kangaroos are best known for their ability to jump a incredible distance.The kangaroo is the largest of the marsupials,a group of animals that includes a common brushtail possums and koalas.Marsupials are featured by the bag that these animals have in bellies, to carry their young ones.

There are three main species of kangaroos in existence today and these are the red kangaroo,which is the largest and best known of all species.The eastern gray kangaroo is known to be the heaviest species of kangaroo irrespective of  the fact that the red kangaroo is higher.The western gray kangaroo can be found in large counts and can be anywhere in color from gray to brown.Also it is the national animal and the emblem of Australia .

Kangaroos have large,flat feet that kangaroos used in order to move which make by jumping.Despite the fact that kangaroos do not move in the general way,kangaroos can often be seen running at high speeds,usually when it  is scared or attacked by predators.

Although kangaroos are not commercially cultivated but are hunted by human hunters for sport,meat,skin, and when farmers are conserving their grazing lands for their sheep and cattle.This sustainable method of hunting  is said to have more health and environmental benefits that the sheep and cattle.

The average age of a wild kangaroo tends to be less than 10 years,although some kangaroo known to be closer to 20 years.When the kangaroo is in captivity,it survives for an age of around 23 years

Facts and Features of Jackal

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family: Canidae

Genre: Kennels

Scientific Name: Canis Aureus

Type: Mammals

Diet: Carnivorous

Size:90-105cm (35-42in)

Weight: 6.8-11kg (24 pounds 15)

Maximum speed of 32 km / h (20 mph)

Duration of the life: 8-15 years

Lifestyle: Package

Living Status: Least Concern

Color: Tan, Brown, Grey, White

Skin: Fur

Favorite eating : Antelope

Habitat: plains of grass and dry forest

Average Litter Size: 5

Prey : Antelope,Reptiles,insects

Attackers: Hyena,Leopard,Eagles

Special Features:Eyes and ears are large and short body

The jackal is originally found in Africa,Asia and South East Europe which is a medium sized member of dog family.There are four main species of jackal and those are the golden jackal,Side-Striped Jackal,black- backed jackal and the Ethiopian wolf.The golden jackal is the most northernly species of jackal and can be found at  far east of Burma in South-East Asia.

Jackals are usually in packs of approximately 10 to 30 individuals.Jackals groups use their large numbers to their benefit and work together in a manner similar to a pack of wolves that usually hunt for food,but more the jackals can protect each other.

Jackals are small canines that have used to hunting small mammals,birds and reptiles.Some species of jackal, also known to eat poisonous snakes.Jackals are carnivorous mammals and often eats the remaining part of an animal destroyed by larger predators.

As a nocturnal mammal,it can easily maintain a speed of around 16 km/hour over long periods of time. Although it belongs to a jackal package,often prefer to hunt alone or in a group.This means that they tend to be more likely to ambush their prey like jackals regularly hunt in large groups,the jackals would be less successful at being stealthy and calm.Although the bulk of the diet consists of meat,many jackal individuals (particularly those jackals surviving in the tropics of Southeast Asia ) will often eat plant material if no meat is available.

Jackals are very territorial animals and will not hesitate to protect itself from its marking territory.Jackals have a wide range of voices  that are specific for each family meaning which is rare for families to compete jackals accidentally make contact with each other.

Jackals inhabit rock crevices and dens of other animals in order to stay cool while sleeping.Although many jackal lives a nocturnal condition,especially those jackals that lives close to humans,some individuals in remote areas are slightly more diurnal and go for hunting in the coolest hours of the day.

Facts and Features of Spain's Ibizan Hound Dog

Name: Ibizan Hound
Size: 69cm (27 inches)
Weight: 25 kg (55 lbs)
Life Period: 14 years
Native Place: Spain
Group: South

Ibizan Hounds are very energetic,clever and nature loving dogs.They are true clowns of dogs around the world,delighting in entertaining the people with their antics.Though they are  independent and stubborn at times, they can be trained if positive methods are used,but they will balk at difficult training methods.They are generally very calm but will bark if necessary,so it makes them as good watch dogs.They are very sensitive and behaves good with children and other dogs alike.They are usually good domestic dogs,but they are energetic and athletic,due to which  need a lot of exercise on daily basis.They are not good kennel dogs.

Facts and Features of Hamster

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Cnidaria
Class: Mammalia
Order: Rodentia
Family: Cricetidae
Genre: Mesocricetus
Scientific Name: Mesocricetus auratus
Type: Mammals
Diet: Omnivorous
Length:6-28cm (2-11in)
Weight: 100-900g (3.5-32 oz)
Maximum speed: 6 km / h (4 mph)
Life Period: 2-3 years
Lifestyle: Solitary
Preservation Status: Least Concern
Color: Tan,Brown,White,Black
Skin Type:Fur
Favorite food: Seeds
Habitat:Dry deserts and sand dunes
Average litter size: 8
Prey also:nuts, berries,fruits
Attackers: owl, hawk, Serpientes
Different Features:food storage bags and the ability to run back towards

Hamsters are thought to originate from the desert lands of East Asia,including hamster species such as the common Syrian hamster and the miniature Russian dwarf hamster.Hamsters spend most of their time digging and foraging for food.Today,hamsters are commonly kept as pets with average domestic hamsters about 2 or 3 years old.Hamsters are thought to be easy  pets to keep for kids because of hamsters quite nature,small size and calm temperament .

Hamsters are solitary animals.Some species of hamster are so solitary that they will fight until death if more than one hamster is in the same territory.Hamsters are nocturnal as hamsters spend the daylight hours in underground burrows to avoid the many predators in the natural environment.The hamster will leave the safety of their underground burrow at night when it is dark and the temperature is cooler in order to get the food.

Hamsters use their large cheek pouches to store food that hamster can get the food to the stash in the underground burrow.Nuts,seeds,vegetables,herbs,fruits and berries are natural diet of the hamsters.

There are over 20 different species of hamster found in nature (and even more in the commercial market for pets).Russian Dwarf hamster are among the smallest species of hamster along with adults rarely grow to more than 10 cm in length.The most common Syrian hamster is the largest species of hamster and few Syrian hamster individuals have been known to grow to about 30 cm in length, although the average size of a Syrian hamster is usually about 20 cm.

Many species of hamsters are very fast in execution,so they are able to escape from attackers.Due to the shape and size of the hind legs of hamster,hamsters are often capable of running backward as fast as it can forward,that allows to easily escape hamsters in their burrows .

Hamsters live in semi -desert regions around the world with the soft soil that gives best material for the hamster to burrow in.The burrow usually consists of many tunnels and chambers including separate areas for the hamster to eat and sleep in.

Foot Facts of Hamster

1. The hamster has two front legs that are more like hands and the hamster uses it to maintain and forage for food.
2. Hind legs are slightly larger than the front legs and are used to balance and support the hamster while sitting.
3. The beautiful  hind legs enable hamster to not only run forward but also backward so the hamster can escape easily into burrows.
4. Hamster hands are well suited to their purpose as they have five fingers on each hand ,while in the feet have only three.
5. Hamsters have soft pads at bottom of paws that help them to run smoothly and long nails on the end of each toe that helps the hamster to grip.

Teeth Facts of Hamster

• As hamsters are rodents ,their teeth are growing all the time so they should grind their teeth down to keep it from becoming too long by gnawing on something hard.
• Hamsters have 16 teeth that grow continuously to give it the advantage while they lose a teeth .
• Unlike many other species animals,the babies are born with a full set of teeth and keep teeth throughout it's life period.
• Hamsters have cheek pouches to store food while out foraging and later empty their pockets so they can eat their stored food.
• A hamster is able to carry own body weight in food in their cheeks and takes then creates secret staches of food to ensure that the hamster is not exhausted.

Facts and Features of Pacific Islands Galapagos Tortoise

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Reptilia

Order: Testudines

Family: Testudinidae

Genre: Geochelone

Scientific Name: Geochelone Nigra

Type: Reptile

Diet: herbivore

Size: 1-1.2m (3.2-4 feet)

Weight: 200-300kg (441-661 pounds)

Speed: 0.5 km / h (0.3 mph)

Life Span: from 100 to 150 years

Lifestyle: Solitary

Preservation Status: Endangered

Color: Brown, Gray

Skin Type: Scales

Favourite food: Grass

Habitat: lowlands and volcanic bush

Avg Litter Size: 24

Main Diet: Herb Fruit Cactus

Attackers:Human wild dogs, Hawk

Special Features: Hard shell on the body and long neck

Galapagos tortoise ( giant Galapagos tortoise ) was first identified by Charles Darwin in the last century,when he went to Galapagos Islands.The Galapagos tortoise is the largest species of tortoise in the today's world while some Galapagos tortoises reaches over 4 feet long!The Galapagos tortoise is also one of longest life period species of tortoise with a number of Galapagos tortoises are over 150 years.

Like most other species of tortoise,Galapagos is a herbivore to spend time grazing on grass and short trees.Today only 10 of 12 species of Galapagos tortoises still survives in Pacific Islands,due to the appearance of goats a century ago.

The domestic goat,covered the Island due to good foliage which means that Galapagos faced difficulties in finding food.Today Galapagos tortoise is best known for their long necks ,that make the appearance slightly like a dinosaur!

The Galapagos  is a very peaceful,quiet and lazy animal.It wakes up early in the morning to take the heat out of sun until the entire body is warmed.After that it spends the rest of  day looking for food before going to bed in evening where it takes rest in shrub land or partially merged water.

The Galapagos tortoise is a lazy animal having maximum speed of less than 1 mile per hour!But during the mating season ,the male one have been known to move with surprising speed with marked individual Galapagos having been known to travel 13 kilometers in just two days.

Like other species of tortoise,the Galapagos tortoise is able to pull the head and legs into its shell for protection when the Galapagos tortoise feels threatened by attackers.The scaly skin on the legs and the head of the Galapagos tortoise also acts as a shield layer to protect from damage while moving around .

Facts and Features of Africa Fennec Fox

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family: Canidae

Genre: Vulpes

Scientific Name: Vulpes Zerda

Type: Mammal

Diet: Omnivorous

Size in Length: 36cm - 40cm (14 inches-17 inches)

Weight:1-1.5 kg (2.2 pounds - three pounds)

Maximum speed: 40 kmh (25 mph)

Lifespan: 12-16 years

Lifestyle: Solitary

Preservation Status:Not very Concerned

Color: sand,white

Skin Type:Fur

Favorite Diet:rodents

Habitat:Desert

Average Litter Size: 3-4

Prey also: rodents,insects, plants, fruits

Attackers: Hyena, Eagle, Human

Special features:Large,Pointed ears and Small body size 

The Fennec fox is a small species of canine found in dry,sandy regions of the Sahara Desert.The Fennec Fox is popularly known for his large ears,which can be half as long as it's body.The fennec fox is the smallest fox in the world with the Fennec fox individuals ranging from 24 cm to 41 cm in length.Fennec Fox also has a very long tail extending in length from 18 cm to 31 cm,depending on the size of individual.

The Fennec fox has thick skin which helps to maintain the Fennec fox cool in the day time and warm during the cold nights.The big ears help to regulate body heat helping  Fennec fox keep cool during the hot day hours.This is done by  blood flowing close to the skin in the ear.This helps to keep away the heat.

The Fennec fox is an omnivorous animal and its diet consists mainly of insects,rodents,plants and fruits along with small reptiles and sometime eggs.The Fennec fox has a sand colored fur which helps it to keep camouflaged when hunting.This sand color of the skin also helps to remain invisible to predators.

A female Fennec fox is able to breed two times a year,but most female only breed once a year.The female Fennec fox gives birth to 3-4 babies, known as kits.The Fennec fox kits feed on mother's milk for about a month while the mother keeps male away from den.When kits are old enough they begin to hunt with their mother.

Fennec Foxes are known to live in small communities together of around 10 individuals.Fennec Foxes are nocturnal,meaning they sleep during the day and hunting for food at night.

Facts and Features of Earwig

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Dermaptera
Common Name: Earwig
Scientific Name: Dermaptera
Found: Worldwide
Diet: Omnivore
Size (L): 1 cm - 3 cm (0.4in - 1.2in)
Weight: 2 g - 5 g (0.07 oz - 0.1 oz)
Number of species: 1800
Average life period: 1 - 3 years
Preservation Status: Least Concern
Color: Black. Brown, Yellow, Tan
Skin type: Shell
Favorite Diet: Plants
Habitat: Grass and forest
Litter Size : 50
Main Prey: plants, flowers, insects
Predators: frogs, birds, beetles
Special features:Sharp Pincers and delicate wings

Earwig is a small insect found worldwide.There are about 2,000 different species of earwig found in the America,Australia and Eurasian continent.Earwig has a small body size, which is divided into three parts in a similar manner to many other species of insects.The earwig has sharp forceps in abdomen and large wings that usually remain hidden against the body of the earwig.Although earwigs are capable of flight,often don't do it.

Earwigs are nocturnal,they often hide in small ,moist crevices during the day and are active at night.Damage to foliage,flowers and various crops is usually done by earwigs but also eat some insects that harm them.

The earwig is thought to get its name from people who fear that earwigs got in his ear to lay their eggs. Although this is not the only purpose of the earwig,although they like tight and warm spaces such as the ear canal.

The earwig is an omnivorous animal which means that they will eat everything.Earwigs spend most of their time feeding on a variety of insects and plants, including flowers, fruits and leaves.

Because of their small size, earwigs have a number of natural predators wherever they live in the world. Amphibians such as frogs ,newts and frogs are most common predator,along with the birds and other larger insects such as beetles.

Earwigs females lay up to 80 small eggs that hatch within a few weeks.Female earwigs are known to be very protective of their young ,often looking over them until they have reached their second molt ( earwigs molt 5 times throughout his life ).

Facts and Features of Dalmatian Dog

Name: Dalmation
Origin: Yugoslavia
Size: 58cm (23 inches)
Weight: 25 kg (55 lbs)
Life Period: 12 years
Group: Gun Dog

Due to its history as coach dogs, the Dalmatian dog is very active and needs lot of exercise.They are very fast athelets,with a lot of energy,power and self-reliance.As it has freedom to roam the nature ,it will take several day trips on their own through the country.In today's urban environment ,they will not  survive such excursions and must be contained.

Due to it's energetic and playful nature,they are very good companions for children and have an instinctive sympathy for humans and horses.These qualities make something unbreakable, and forgiveness of safe caring for children.However, it is imperative that they be socialized with children while still puppies ,and children are taught the correct way to play with animals.

They have very sensitive natures but respond favorably to calm the strong leadership.His mischievous and playful personalities require constant supervision around very young children ,who may accidentally knock and hurt .

Dalmatians are people-oriented dogs and get very lonely if left alone and must be trained to accept their owners absence if they must be left alone otherwise they will pine severely.A better option is to provide togetherness.

These dogs crave human companionship and do poorly if left alone in a backyard or basement.Dalmatians are known for their intelligence and survival.They generally have a good memory capabilities and are generally very kind (although individual samples may vary).Originally bred to defend carriages and horses, dogs can become territorial if not trained.

Facts and Features of South American Caiman Lizard

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Reptilia

Order: Squamata

Family: Teiidae

Genre: Dracaena

Scientific Name: Dracaena guianensis

Type: Reptile

Diet: Carnivore

Size (L): 60cm - 121cm (2 ft - 4 ft)

Weight: 1.4 kg - 2.7 kg (3 lbs-6 lbs)

Maximum speed:16 km/h (10 mph)

Life Period: 10-30 years

Lifestyle: Solitary

Preservation Status: Least Concern

Color: Black, Brown, Tan, yellow, gray

Skin:Scales

Favorite Eating: Insects

Habitat: Rain forest and swamp areas

Average Clutch Size: 6

Main Diet: insects, fish, crabs

Attackers:jaguar, large snakes,Human

Distinguishing features: forked tongue, powerful tail

The Caiman lizard is a  medium-sized species of lizard lives in South American jungles.The Caiman lizard is strongly built and is one of the largest lizard species in the America.The caiman lizard can be found in the tropical jungles and swamps areas of South America in the countries of Brazil ,Colombia ,Ecuador and Peru .Caiman lizards are seen more frequently in areas that are flooded ,as they are aquatic creatures .

The caiman lizard is a large and stocky lizard is known to grow up to 120 centimeters of its snout to the tip of its tail.Today, there is only one species of lizard  found in South America,i.e Northern Caiman lizard.

As it spends most of the time either in or around the water ,the lizard's body has adapted so it helps to live a aquatic lifestyle.The best example of this is the long and flat tail helps to give direction while swimming.

Caiman lizards are large carnivorous predators that only hunt other animals to obtain their nutrients.Snails are the main source of food for the lizard along with other invertebrates such as insects and crabs and sometimes larger animals such as fish, rodents and amphibians.

Due to its relatively large size,some part in water and some part in tree dwelling,so it consists of limited predators in it's surroundings.Large mammals such as jaguars are known to hunt the caiman lizard along with other large reptiles like snakes and crocodiles.

Although very little is known about the reproduction of the Caiman lizard,believed to behave in a manner similar to other species of large lizards.After mating ,the female  lizards lay their eggs in a hole in the bank of the river and covers them  to protect them from hungry predators.When babies are out of the eggs,they are fully independent since no prenatal care occurs.

Today, despite the Caiman lizard is not regarded as a species that is in immediate danger of extinction, Caiman lizard populations have been declining in specific areas ,mainly due to habitat loss often due to pollution and deforestation.

Facts and Features of Bactrian Camel

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Camelidae

Genus: Camelus

Scientific Name: Camelus bactrianus

Type: Mammal

Diet: herbivore

Size (H): 1.7 m - 2.1 m (5.5 ft - 7 ft)

Weight: 600kg - 816kg (1325-1800 lbs)

Maximum speed: 64 kmh (40 mph)

Life Time: 35 - 50 years

Lifestyle: Herd

Conservation Status: Endangered

Color: Brown, Tan

Skin Type:Fur

Favourite food: Grass

Habitat: Deserts near water

Average Litter Size: 1

Main Diet: Seeds, Grass, thorny bush

Attackers: Human, Tiger, lizards

Special features: thick skin and two humps

The Bactrian camel is best known for being the kind of camel with two humps.There are only two surviving species of camel remaining i.e Middle East single hump camels and Bactrian (double hump ) camel from northern Asia.

There are believed to be more than a million domesticated Bactrian camels around the world not only in Asia but also parts of Africa and the Middle East.Camels have been domesticated for about 2,000 years, both for pulling / carrying heavy loads,but also for the transport of people and goods.

Like the single humped camel ,the Bactrian camel is able to survive on its own reserves of water for long periods of time which means it can move long desert plains and mountain ranges without the need to stop.Today the Bactrian camel is considered an endangered species,with fewer than 1,000 Bactrian camels are thought to live in parts of China and Mongolia.

The Bactrian camel humps work the same way as the Arab camel humps ,Bactrian camels with humps uses for fat storage which can be converted into water and energy when the Bactrian camel finds short of  food and water. Bactrian camels humps gives them their legendary ability to travel long periods without water, even in harsh desert conditions.As the fat in Bactrian camel humps are used ,Bactrian camels humps become floppy and flabby.The Bactrian camel is one of the most adaptable animals in the world which is able to with stand temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius in summer and -30 degrees Celsius in winter.

Bactrian camels have developed special adaptations which allows it to survive in an unstable environment. The Bactrian camel has a thick and saggy coat that protects the Bactrian camel in the winter and the coat fades as the seasons change and the temperature rises to allow Bactrian camel to keep cool in the summer season.

Facts and Features African Civet

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum : Chordata

Class : Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family : Viverridae

Genre : Civettictis

Scientific Name : Civettictis Civetta

Common Name : African Civet

Group: Mammal

Number of species : 1

Location: in sub-Saharan Africa

Habitat : Tropical Forest

Color : Black,white,gray,yellow,Brown ,Tan

Skin Type:Fur

Size ( H ) : 44cm - 71cm ( 17 inches - 28 inches)

Weight: 1.4 kg - 4.5 kg ( 3 pounds - 10 pounds )

Diet : Omnivorous

Prey : Rodents,snakes, Frogs

Attackers: lions,snakes, leopards

Lifestyle : Nocturnal

Group behavior : Solitary

Life Span: 15-20 years

Sexual Maturity Age: 11-12 months

Gestation period : 60-70 days

Average Litter Size : 3

Name of Young : Pup

Weaning Age: 8-10 weeks

Preservation Status : Least Concern

Estimated Population Size: Abundant

Threts:loss of habitat

More distinctive feature: Black Band around eyes

Funny Facts: Secret  4 g of musk every week !

Classification and Evolution of African Civet

The African Civet is the largest species of Civet found in sub-Saharan Africa .The African Civet is the only remaining member in genetic group and is considered the largest civet -like in Africa.Despite its appearance and behavior like Cat ,African civets are not felines at all but are more closely related to other small carnivores like weasels and mongooses.The African civet is best known for musk that it generates to mark their territory (called civetone ) , \which has been used in the manufacture of perfumes for centuries and is black and white striking marks make the African civet one of the most Civet species easy to identify.

Anatomy and Appearance of African Civet

One of the most distinctive features is it's black and white markings on their skin and gray face along with the black band around the eyes , gives it racoon like appearance.The only similarity is enhanced by the fact that the hind legs of the African civet are slightly longer than the front ,so the position is very different from that of a mongoose .The average adult African civet has a length of about 70 cm, with almost same length of the tail above.The legs of the African civet each have five digits with retractable claws  allowing  more easily to move on trees.

Distribution and Habitat of African Civet

The African civet is found in a variety of habitats on the African continent ,with its range extends from coast to coast in sub - Saharan Africa.African Civets are most commonly found in tropical forests and jungles and overgrown areas with dense to provide coverage and African civets for food.African Civets are never found in the arid regions and should always be in an area that has good amount of water supply.Despite this , however , it is not uncommon for African civets are found along rivers that lead in the most arid regions. They are able to swim quite well and spend most of their time hunting and resting in the trees and on the ground .

Behavior & Lifestyle of African Civet

The African Civet is a solitary animal that only comes out at night to hunt and catch food.These nocturnal animals spend most of the day resting in the safety of the trees high above.African Civets tend to be most active just after sunset , but tend to hunt in areas still provide plenty of coverage.Despite being generally very solitary animals ,during the mating season African civet has been known to gather in groups of up to 15 members.They are also very territorial animals ,marking its boundaries with the odor emitted from the perineal glands .

Reproduction and life cycles of African Civet

African civets are seen together during mating season.The female African civet usually gives birth to up to 4 young after a gestation period that lasts a couple of months.The female one stays in a  underground burrow that  have been dug by another animal in order to keep safe the young .Unlike many of his relatives carnivores ,Civet babies are usually born very mobile and with their skin.Babies are nursed by their mothers until they are strong enough to protect themselves.African civets can live up to 20 years ,although many rarely get to this age.

Diet and Prey  of African Civet

Despite the fact that the African civet is a carnivorous mammal it's diet is a collection of both animal and plant matter.Small animals such as rodents ,lizards ,snakes and frogs make up the majority of the diet of the African civet ,along with insects , berries and fallen fruit that is available on ground.Instead of using their legs, African civet mainly used their teeth and mouth to collect food.This method means that the African civet can use their 40 sharp teeth to effectively break it's catch down and the strong jaw of African civet makes difficult for food to get out.

Threats to African Civet

The African civet is really prey to a number of other predators in their natural environment.Large Cats are common predators of African civet  along with lions and leopards as well as reptiles such as large snakes and crocodiles.It's population are also threatened by habitat loss and deforestation, and have been the subject of trophy hunters in the past, across the continent.One of the greatest threats to the African Civet is the want for their musk.

Interesting Facts and Features of African Civet

The musk secreted by glands near the reproductive organs has been collected by humans for hundreds of years of this African Civet.In its most concentrated form ,the scent is said to be very offensive to people ,but much nicer once diluted.It was this smell that became one of the ingredients in some of the most expensive perfumes in the world( and made African Civet most popular).African Civets are known to carry rabies disease ,which is contracted through contact with an animal already infected.The African Civet is also known to use designated areas around it's territory ,where it is able to toilet.

Relationship of African Civet with humans

Each African civet secrets  musk of up to 4 g in each week ,which is generally collected African civets in the wild.However, the capturing and retention of African civets for their musk is not unknown and is said to be an  incredibly cruel business.Today ,few perfumes still contain real musk glands of the African civet as today many of them are artificially produced.Although it is a protected area,not extincted animal ,African Civet population have also been  affected by human hunters,who hunt these small carnivores simply add their skin to the trophy cabinet.

Conservation Status of African Civet

Today, the African civet is threatened by deforestation and therefore drastic loss of much of their natural habitat.The main reason for this extensive deforestation in the area is either to register or to clear land to make way for palm oil plantations.The African civet is listed as Least Concern ,meaning that there is little threat at the time that the African civet extinct in the near future .