Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
The Nile crocodile and Egyptian plover bird have a relationship in Egyptian history that dates back to the fifth century B.C. In stories dating back to this time, the plover bird would pick the rotten food out of the mouths of Nile crocodiles, who would open up and let the birds get rid of the waste. Although no confirmed accounts of these stories exist, the two species do share the same habitats in Africa.
Ring-tailed lemurs are social groomers, meaning they typically groom one another in groups; grooming is also done simultaneously -- as one lemur grooms another, the other grooms it back. Ring-tailed lemurs are born with special teeth and claws that are used specifically for combing and scraping the fur to rid it of dirt and other particles. However, a ring-tailed lemur that is isolated from its social group will need help with its grooming process. Learn how lemurs perform their grooming so that you can base your technique on what the lemur is familiar with.
The clouded leopard is a large Asian wild cat that grows to almost 6 feet, nose to tail, with the tail making up almost half the length. These long tails help the cats to climb and with agility when jumping between trees. It is a rare species and is listed as vulnerable due in most part to hunting by humans for their skins.
The blue whale -- a member of the group of whales known as the baleen whales -- is the largest known animal, growing to a length of up to 110 feet and weigh up to 190 tons. They can be found throughout the world's oceans, though they particularly favor the cold waters found in the North Pacific, North Atlantic, and Antarctic Oceans. Due to its immense size and its aquatic environment, both of which have exerted various pressures, the blue whale has developed a number of adaptations that have allowed it to survive.
Cormorants, or shags depending on the area of the world, belong to the family Phalacrocoracidae. More than 30 species of cormorant exist worldwide and live most commonly in tropical, temperate regions. They are marine birds found around coastlines as well as in inland wetland habitats. Some species of cormorant have been trained to assist fishermen.
Ants in Massachusetts are common, with many different species finding their way to indoor locations. While they do not cause much damage to homes, ants can become major pests when indoors. They can occasionally bite, but more often they get inside homes and cause a mess, getting into trash and leftover food, and finding ways to get onto tables and counters.
Man is causing the extinction of endangered animals all over the world. It is estimated that the man-made destruction of the South American rain forests is causing the extinction of approximately 27,000 species each year, according to the PBS Evolution Library website. This number includes bacteria and micro-organisms as well as larger animals. There are several other man-made causes of extinction for endangered animals that are eliminating entire species permanently.
There are over 9,000 known bird species and 130 of them have become extinct since 1800. There are many reasons why birds become extinct. Colonization, destruction of natural habitat, hunting, predators and disease have all been responsible for the death of bird species over the years. Conservation efforts are set up to house critically endangered birds in hopes of repopulating, however these efforts are not always successful. For example, the last passenger pigeon died in a Cincinnati zoo in 1914. Extinct species include the dodo, the laughing owl, the Guadeloupe Island caracara, the mysterious starling, six species of the Hawaii…
Lemurs are a type of primate native only to the island of Madagascar where around 60 different species can currently be found. These creatures come in a variety of shapes and sizes but perhaps the most recognizable species of lemur is the ring-tailed lemur. The existing species of lemur can be divided into five different families for easy classification.
Lemurs are a group of primates only found naturally in the wild on the island of Madagascar. On the island, eighty-eight different species of lemur are known to be spread between five scientific family groups. The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists sixteen species or subspecies of lemur which are considered endangered, with six species listed as critically endangered.
The cougar has several subspecies, one of which was the eastern cougar. The eastern cougar at one time lived over the entire United States and Canada. Eastern cougars lived in any wooded area and had no natural predator. The wild cat was remarkably light on the feet and would bring down large prey quickly and with ease. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service listed the eastern cougar on the endangered species list in 1973.
The Scientific American reports that nearly 25 percent of the world's mammals face extinction. Biologist Jan Schipper, quoted in the article, notes that 50 percent of the world's mammal populations are declining while only 5 percent are increasing. Many different factors threaten mammal populations. Hunting, deforestation and habitat destruction, global warming, and natural phenomena all contribute to animal extinction.
The cheetah is the fastest animal on land, capable of reaching speeds up to 70 miles per hour. In order to run that quickly, the cheetah's protein-heavy diet includes several different animals that share the same habitat. In captivity, zookeepers feed cheetahs domestic animals.
There are many different types of sea animals in existence today. The most common type of sea animals that people recognize are fish. However, sea life is very diverse and includes different groups, such as mammals, reptiles, sharks and cephalopods.
The recovery of endangered animals is the main mission of the Endangered Species Program, which was developed from the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973. Through the act's provisions the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - Fisheries employ several methods to protect endangered animals and their ecosystems.
Mouse lemurs are the smallest primate species in the world. As of June 2011, only eight species of mouse lemur are confirmed. Several others have been described by science but are not accepted full species. The small primates are only found living in the forests of Madagascar. Science is still learning about mouse lemurs, and research is ongoing to confirm more distinct species.
Leopards are members of the big cat family and are closely related to lions and tigers. Worldwide, nine subspecies of leopard exist including the Indian, African and Persian varieties. Leopards are powerful, effective hunters that are considered among the top predators throughout much of their home range. Hunting and habitat loss has meant that some of the subspecies have become endangered.
Life in the desert is difficult, and animals must make many adaptations to survive in the arid climate. The heat of the sun and the scarcity of water require desert animals to conserve moisture within their bodies, developing methods of storing water internally and keeping it from escaping.
Tigers and leopards are both members of the cat family. There are many similarities between the two animals in their appearance, the way they hunt, and how they breed and nurture their young. However, some clear differences enable anyone to distinguish between them. Here are some of the main ways tigers and leopards differ.
Domestic dogs are a part of the canine family and were bred down from wild dogs, which are descendants of the wolf. Through selective breeding, people created a variety of dog breeds that serve different functions. This means people look for certain traits in a dog when selecting dogs to breed. Over time, these traits became dominant and different dog breeds were created. The fastest dog breeds come from the sight-hound group and were primarily bred for hunting and racing.
Wolves are the largest members of the canine family; the most widespread land mammals and ancestors of the domestic dog. Of the four species, the North American Gray Wolf (Canis lupis) --- aka the timber wolf --- has the highest numbers in existence. As predators, wolves are an essential part of the ecosystem. They are deeply feared and drastically misunderstood, which leads to threats to their survival. The U.S. Government states the species has made a drastic recovery since its near extinction in 1974. As a result of its protection, the population of gray wolves has grown to 1,651 across…
The Endangered Species Act was signed into law by Rickard Nixon in 1973. The purpose of this law is to protect endangered species and to protect species whose existence is threatened. There are two ways to have animal and plant species declared endangered. The process is lengthy and requires gathering supportive data and evaluating public requests.
Ring-tailed lemurs are primates indigenous to Madagascar, an island nation off of southern Africa, and are known for their incredible cuteness and black-and-white ringed tail. They are called "lemurs," meaning "ghost" in Latin, because they are nocturnal creatures. Their adorable mannerisms and small builds -- most ring-tailed lemurs don't grow beyond eight pounds -- make them attractive to exotic pet lovers worldwide. However, because lemurs are wild animals, they are typically hard to domesticate. In order to successfully domesticate a lemur, you must start the training process when the lemur is very young.
Animals for the disabled are called service dogs. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service dog as a dog trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. Service dogs include assistance, hearing and guide dogs. Generally any breed of dog can be employed since the dog’s temperament is the most important determining factor. However, retrievers are known to possess the vital skills and talents required as service dogs, and smaller breeds are used as hearing dogs.
Animals throughout the world take advantage of the shelter offered by hollow logs and stumps. They are easily found, take little energy to turn in to a home and offer shelter from the elements, but do not offer as much protection from predators as other types of animal homes. When looking for firewood in the forest, remember that there may be an animal in that hollow stump, or it may be an animal's home.
Cats are quick, lithe and intelligent, which means that they don't have very many natural enemies. In fact, house cats are very successful predators. However, there are a few animals that have been known to seriously injure or kill outdoor house cats. If you are concerned that your cat could be at risk due to animal activity outside your home, it might be best to keep it inside for awhile.
The cheetah is the earth's fastest land mammal and is capable of speeds up to 70 miles per hour. In pursuit of prey, the cat can go from 0 to 60 in around three seconds, acceleration of which most sports cars would be proud. The cat is not a member of the big cat family, such as lions or leopards, and is more closely related to North America's mountain lion or the common house cat.
As of May 2011, the United States has officially listed 417 animals as "endangered." Thousands more have been listed around the world, and every day, animal rights groups, lawmakers and regular citizens work to help protect these animals from becoming extinct. Through numerous methods, people implement strategies and try to find new techniques to help humans coexist with nature.
Only one species of tiger exists, but it has nine known subspecies that vary by range and small physical differences. Of these nine subspecies, three became extinct in the 20th century, and all six other species are at risk of joining them. None of the world's tiger subspecies is considered safe from extinction.
When it comes to gestation, every mammal has its own time frame for how long it takes to develop their young between conception and birth. There are some natural tendencies, however, that will dictate an approximate length of time an animal will gestate. For the most part, the average length of time in the womb for most mammals is directly influenced by the size of the animal and its average lifespan.
When a natural habitat is disturbed, some animals are not just left without a home -- they are left without a quality of life. Some of these lives ended as a direct involvement of human activity. These animals have been wiped off the face of the planet because something has caused a dramatic loss in their habitat.
The shark is thought to have evolved around 400 million years ago and predates the dinosaur. Various species of shark have become extinct throughout history for different reasons, with the skeletal construction of the shark reducing the amount of available fossils.
The New Georgia Encyclopedia explains that Georgia's diverse habitats and terrain allow for up to 110 species to breed and nest in the south of the state and up to 130 in the north. However, among the extinct species are passenger pigeons (Ectopistes migratorius), Carolina parakeets (Conuropsis carolinensis), ivory-billed woodpeckers (Campephilus principalis) and Bachman's warblers (Vermivora bachmanii).
Massachusetts is a relatively small state, yet it still has vast areas of natural habitat that support numerous plant and animal species. It is home to 31 endangered animal species, with a further 15 listed as threatened. These species have often been impacted by environmental and habitat changes, and in some cases hunting has depleted numbers.
Illinois is home to 10 species of the Hylidae family of frogs. Frogs from this family are what is known as New World tree frogs. Consisting of more than 700 species, most members of this family have large finger pads on their feet which act like suction cups to help the frogs climb trees.
There are several rabbit species considered either vulnerable or in danger of extinction and are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's "Red List," which includes the names of the world's most endangered animals. Along with this list is information regarding the steps being taken to save these species.
All dogs were bred for a purpose. Some were bred to hunt, others to protect and still others were bred for more specific roles. For example, the Springer Spaniel was bred for flushing out birds from bushes, and the Portuguese Water Dog was bred to bring in fishing nets. Noting the historical purpose of a dog is an important part of the classification process. It gives you valuable information about size, temperament, behavior and appearance.
In 1973, the government established the Endangered Species Act to protect animal species that are on the verge of extinction. In many cases, factors such as destruction of habitat, shifts in climate and disruptions in the food chain are enough to diminish wildlife populations. Even in recent years, despite human attempts to conserve endangered animals, many species have vanished.
The list of endangered species of animals and plants is often a changing one. Populations shrink, grow, and even disappear. There are databases that track these plants and animals, providing their regions and threat level. There are also efforts underway to bring back populations of endangered species of animals and plants.
Tarsiers are endangered primates native to the Philippines whose existence dates back 45 million years. They are considered to be one of the most ancient living species on land. The varieties include the Philippine, eastern and western tarsiers. They are endangered because of the destruction of their natural habitat in the forests and because they are hunted in order to be used as pets. Tarsiers can live 12 to 20 years in their natural environment; ones held in captivity usually survive only two to five years.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature says that, as of 2010, there were 18,788 species threatened with extinction. The current rate of species extinction is between 100 and 1,000 times higher than the expected natural rate, according to the World Wildlife Federation. Despite the ever-dwindling numbers, or perhaps because of them, the market for exotic and endangered pets continues to thrive.
The state of Missouri is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals. Of these numerous species, only 17 appear on the state's endangered list with a further 11 listed as threatened. As of April 2011, four other species are being assessed as proposed to be endangered. This means they are a species that is considered threatened but may need to be reclassified as endangered.
Both the panther, which is a nickname for a leopard, and the jaguar are the smaller members of the big cat family. But both are wily hunters capable of bringing down elk, zebra or even, a human. While the leopard and jaguar belong to the same family, panthera, the two big cats have four striking differences in size, location, tree-climbing ability and coloring.
The Great Lakes region is home to thousands of species and a wide range of ecosystems. Many species thrive, although a few are considered endangered. Those species with very specific habitat requirements are vulnerable to change, as are larger mammals who may have been historically hunted as pests and are yet to recover their population numbers.
Today, there are almost 700 plant species and almost 500 animal species listed as endangered or threatened around the world. Threatened species are predicted to become extinct in the near future and endangered species are nearly extinct already. The United States Endangered Species Program and the United States Endangered Species Act have been designed and operated to protect, preserve and repopulate the species that are both threatened and endangered in the United States and around the world.
While mammals didn't dominate the earth until after the dinosaurs were gone, some early mammals appeared on earth while the larger reptilian beasts still reigned. Some of these early mammals, which were small and primitive, are familiar to us today.
For some, the mere glimpse of a spider is terrifying, though the critters are usually as equally scared of humans. Most species of spider will just run and hide and none will actively seek to attack humans. Bites from spiders occur when they are frightened and cornered. Some species can be even more scary when cornered, rearing up on their back legs in an aggressive pose meant to make us and predators back off.
Both the cheetah and the leopard are fearsome predators, capable of using their powerful muscles and cunning personalities to bring down large game. Many people confuse the two, often because the two cats look somewhat alike at first glance. But under careful scrutiny, the two animals have several noticeable differences.
Koalas are not currently on the endangered list, but that does not mean they are not at risk. Koalas were nearly extinct in the early 1900s due to hunters killing them for their fur. Currently, the number of koalas is decreasing and could be as low as 40,000. Some scientists estimate that the species could be extinct within the next 30 years.
Wildlife funding groups have existed since the 1960s as independent conservation organizations. Missions of such organizations, like the World Wildlife Fund, is to stop degradation of the planet's natural resources and encourage a future in which humans live in cooperation with nature. A big part of this involves protecting endangered species and seeing that these species don't become extinct. Wildlife funds accomplish this in a variety of ways.
According to Young People's Trust for the Environment, as of 2011, there are about 5,000 endangered species on Earth. About one of these species becomes extinct each year. Endangered species are usually the result of a combination of factors, which commonly include poaching, loss of habitat and global warming. While there are hundreds of species on the endangered list, there are a handful of species at greater risk of extinction than others.
The dugong is an Australian cousin of the American manatee. They are herbivores that can grow up to 10 feet in length and weigh between 510 to 1,100 pounds. They are found in the shallow waters along Australia's north coast, including the Great Barrier Reef. Due to their size only large veracious predators can successfully prey on them.
Endangered animals are rapidly decreasing due to human population, climate changes and illegal poaching. Many of these animals are almost to the point of extinction. Once a species is gone, it is gone forever. In the Earth's history, species have naturally become extinct due to catastrophic disturbances, such as asteroids, which may have been to blame for the extinction of the dinosaurs. But in modern times, environmental factors, conflicts with humans and illegal trade are the biggest threats to their survival.
The Pinnacles National Monument is located in central California's Gabilan Mountain range. The remains of an ancient volcano with large natural rock formations and canyons make up the Pinnacles. It attracts hikers, rock climbers and nature lovers. The Pinnacles is home to numerous species of animals, some of which are endangered.
Although species such as the dodo, golden toad and passenger pigeon have already disappeared, small populations of other species linger on the brink of extinction. Human hunters play a role in the declining number of certain species; however, destruction of habitat, changes in climate and disruptions in the food chain can push animals to endangered status.
While dolphins aren't the first creatures many think of as endangered, there are in fact many dolphin species in danger of becoming extinct. This is largely due to over-fishing and habitat destruction. Dolphins are important to the ecosystem; therefore it is important both for the sake of the dolphin and for the environment that measures are taken to make sure they are protected.
The dugong is one of only four surviving sirenian mammals in the world and on the Endangered Species List. Dugongs are grey mammals and live in the ocean waters around Australia, India and New South Wales.
Commonly referred to as "rain forests of the ocean," coral reefs represent one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. They form in warm, shallow water and are home to a variety of plant and animal species, both large and small. According to the Planetary Coral Reef Foundation, coral reefs are home to 30 of the 34 known animal phyla on Earth.
From rats to cats, and elephants to eagles, there is an organization built around protecting and preserving the species. Endangered animals are those in danger of becoming extinct within a relatively short period of time. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, as of 2011, there are 1,171 animals on the Endangered Species list in the United States alone. Most will agree that saving endangered species is worth the time and effort governments, both U.S. and around the world, put into conservation efforts because of benefits to the Earth's biodiversity.
Iowa is the 26th largest state in the United States and the 30th most populated. The state's main industry is agriculture, meaning it has vast swatches of undeveloped countryside where animals may thrive. Of the many animal species within the state, only five are listed as endangered or threatened.
Most marine animals descended from land and possess qualities that evolved slowly over time. From habitat to adaptations, land and sea dwelling animals have both similar and different characteristics. The most differences lie in body parts, body coverings and behaviors, such as how the animal moves.
Reaching sizes of more than 100 feet long and weighing 150 tons, the blue whale possibly is the largest animal ever to inhabit the earth. Blue whales can be found in every ocean on the planet and migrate to warmer waters in the winter to breed. Food sources are available for them in all waters, polar, temperate and tropical. Because of their enormous size, blue whales were not pursued by early whalers. However, in the early 1900s whaling was revolutionized with exploding harpooning guns and factory ships, making them a prime target. One blue whale can produce 120 barrels of…
The four species of wolves are the Gray, Red, Ethiopian and Eastern. Among these four groups, about 32 subspecies are thought to exist. As a result of losing habitat and clashing with humans, some species are considered endangered. Only a few hundred animals remain in some species.
Baby animals provide some of the most endearing pictures snapped in the wild. However, habitat encroachment, climate change and poaching threaten thousands of species of animals every year. Several organizations, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, maintain lists of endangered species that are near extinction.
Teaching children to play games properly with the family pet gives the child and the pet pleasure, interaction and exercise. The games that the child and animal play depend on the type of animal you own and the temperament of both the child and the pet. You can design games for any type of pet that will provide fun and entertainment. Be sure that younger children are properly supervised and instructed on how to handle the animal.
Old-growth forests have been reduced around the world and the result is the endangerment of species that rely on the old-growth ecosystem to survive. Old-growth forest ecosystems are different from the ecosystems found in younger forests. The soil in old-growth forests is richer and canopies of the forest are thicker, which provides a unique environment for the animals that live there. When old forest growth is cut down, it takes generations to repair the effects.
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service protects endangered spiders through the Endangered Species Act. As of 2011, there are four endangered spider species in the United States. For inclusion on the endangered species list, the species must be threatened due to modification or destruction of habitat, overutilization, disease, predation, inadequate regulation methods, or through circumstances, manmade or natural, that affects the survival of the species.
Frog populations have plummeted worldwide, seemingly from a combination of disease, habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species and pollution. About half of the 6,000 species of amphibians, most of which are frogs and toads, are endangered and some are already extinct.
In 1973, the U.S. Congress passed the Federal Endangered Species Act, which provides protections to declining species of plants and animals that are classified as threatened or endangered. Although the species that make up either category need to be protected, what defines endangered and threatened species is actually quite different.
A threatened species is a species of plant or animal that may become extinct if direct human measures aren't taken to prevent the extinction. An endangered species has a much smaller population than threatened species and are at even greater risk of extinction. There are about 1,300 endangered or threatened species in the United States; Louisiana is home to almost 30 of them.
Wetland ecosystems, including swamps, bogs, lagoons, lakes, rivers and marshes, support seasonal and permanent animal residents living on the algae, plants, plankton, insects and fish that propagate in their waters. Experts at the San Diego Zoo say that erosion, pollution and pesticides disturb the lives of many wetland animals.
Cavefish are a variety of fish that have adapted to living in the dark environment of a cave. As a result of living in perpetual darkness, many cavefish have lost their eyes and body pigment. While more than 80 species of cavefish are known to exist around the world, several North American species are endangered.
Congress put the Endangered Species Act into place in 1973. This act protects certain plants, animals and fish from hunting and trapping by humans. The purpose of this act helps to conserve species that are diminishing in quantity and to ward off extinction. A species becomes endangered as the specimens of plants or animals begin to die faster than they can reproduce. Environmental factors, ecological imbalance and hunting are several factors that explain how a species becomes endangered. As of March, 2010 a number of animals indigenous to North America and residing in North Dakota are on the endangered list.…
An endangered species list acts as a guide to communicate conservation problems and the need to reduce species extinctions. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) publishes its IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, a comprehensive inventory of at-risk plants and animals.
A rainforest is rich in wildlife diversity and its dense canopy layer is teeming with more animals than any other part of the forest. The canopy trees and their branches -- just below the emergent layer of the tallest trees of the rainforest -- hold a bountiful supply of fruit, seeds, nuts and leaves to feed a broad range of animals.
Panama is, according to Conservation International, part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hot spot stretching all the way through tropical Central America from Mexico. Its La Amistad International Park and Biosphere reserve, shared with Costa Rica, is the single largest pristine cloud forest area in Central America. Conservation International estimates that 75% of the migratory birds in the Western Hemisphere converge on the park. A recent study by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute's Center for Tropical Forest Science found that Panama's forests are more diverse in nature than those of the Amazon. Panama is home to endangered species such as the…
The state of Nebraska is home to a variety of endangered wildlife, including mammal, insect, bird, fish and plant species. Nebraska Game and Parks Commission takes it responsibility to protect endangered wildlife, and the habitat of these species very seriously and has a number of initiatives in place to protect and reintroduce animals and plants back into their natural habitats.
Although many sea animals have cosmopolitan distributions, the populations of many marine creatures are dwindling. As of January 2010, 620 different marine species populations are threatened, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources's Red List of Threatened Species. These sea animals are perceived as vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered or extinct.
In North America, the term "panther" generally refers to the Puma concolor or any of its subspecies. They are also called cougars, pumas or mountain lions, and have been known by many colloquial names, including "painter." Though panthers once ranged as far south as the Straits of Magellan and as far north as British Columbia, their current distribution is greatly restricted. Many subspecies are considered threatened, some, such as the Florida panther, are listed as endangered. The subspecies Puma concolor schorgeri and Puma concolor couguar are extinct in the wild, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
When the population of a single animal species becomes so small it is in immediate danger of becoming extinct, the species is considered endangered. A significant population decrease can be due to loss of habitat, predators, both human and animal, invasive plants and interbreeding with other species. The wildlife of Hawaii has experienced all of these problems, leaving some of its animals endangered.
In the animal world, some species flourish while others slip into near-extinction. Rare mammals are of many varieties, in different parts of the world. Biologists have learned much about some, but little about others. Attempts to reintroduce some of these animals after captive breeding has been successful, but the numbers still remain low enough to keep them on the endangered list.
The natural coral reefs found in the world's tropical waters contain a huge selection of fish, sponges, reptiles, invertebrates and mammals that cannot live anywhere else. These colorful coral formations are under attack from human development, over hunting and illegal poaching. Moreover, the creatures that dwell in the ocean also suffer the same plight, and some of the more exotic undersea residents are on the brink of extinction.
Endangered species is a classification that indicates a specific species' progression towards extinction. This classification provides environmentalists and animal activists an opportunity to lobby political officials and regular citizens for support and the establishment of laws to prevent the extinction of an animal species. There are thousands of endangered species across the world that are striving to survive the odds against them. Many endangered animals are common mammals that we see often in our zoos and wildlife sites. However, with increased animal advocacy and more education about the plight of endangered creatures, many of these species can be helped before…
The ocean is filled with exotic sea mammals that thrive in the majestic oceans. However, there are major threats to the survival of these creatures; many are now classified as endangered sea mammals. Some of the common contributing factors to their endangerment include pollution, commercial killing and entrapment.
A savanna is a type of tropical grassland that is found near tropical rainforests. They usually exist in areas with warmer climates, such as India, Botswana, Kenya, Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia and northern Australia. Savannas generally hold different types of vegetation, including shrubs and larger trees. Animals that can survive in a savanna often have to deal with a warm, dry climate and competition for food. Habitat destruction and hunting and poaching practices have contributed to the decline in the number of some savanna species.
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is the smallest of the four “big cats." There are nine subspecies of the leopard and four of these are on the critically endangered list published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The leopard is mainly found in Africa but there are small groups found in Pakistan, Russia, Sri Lanka and China.
Pond habitats are home to a diverse number of fish, insects and amphibians. The biodiversity within ponds is highly sensitive to pollution and human disruption of nesting areas. Shrinking pond habitats have resulted in some pond animals loosing the ability to naturally replenish their populations and caused them to become endangered and at risk of extinction.
The common breeds of domesticated chicken (over 250 of them) all belong to the species Gallus gallus and remain an important livestock animal in nearly every country on Earth. Technically, there are no wild chickens, though the domesticated bird’s origins may link it to a wild fowl in Southeast Asia. To clear up ongoing confusion on the gender issue, males are roosters, cockerels or cocks unless castrated, and those are capons; females are hens and young females are pullets. All of them are chickens.
The list of endangered species in the world is large. Every continent has its own list of species that are in trouble. Australia is no different. The lists can be broken down into different categories. For example, Australia’s list contains several marine mammals. Knowing the different endangered marine mammals in Australia brings attention to these species and what is threatening their survival.
According to National Marine Fisheries Service, a species of animal is considered endangered if it is in danger of extinction through all or a significant portion of its range. This may depend on the habits and biology of an animal, such as how many offspring they produce, how long they typically live, and how many an ecosystem can support at one time. Some of the most endangered species are at risk of going extinct in our lifetime.
Due to a number of factors, including deforestation, poaching and environmental changes, many species of animals around the world have become endangered, meaning they are at risk of vanishing forever because the current numbers of that species are very low. Learning about different species of endangered animals raises awareness of this risk. One way to raise awareness for children and adults alike is by playing games revolving around endangered species.
Zoological gardens, or zoos, are often a major attraction of big cities across the United States. According to the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, more than 600 million visitors enter zoos every year, and with each visitor exists an opportunity to educate. Endangered species are kept in captivity to help educate the public about the need for conservation efforts, to provide research opportunities and to replenish population numbers with breeding programs. The ultimate goal is to be able to re-release the animals in a restored natural habitat.
The lasting effects of a strong hurricane reach beyond damaged homes and human injuries. In many cases, these storms become tragic events. Rightfully so, media attention turns to the human casualties and the economic effects of the storm. When Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast of the United States, several agencies spent time investigating how a hurricane of that magnitude affects the plant life and wildlife in the path of the storm.
The endangered species list is a collection of animals that are few in number and may eventually become extinct. Latin America has its fair share of endangered animals. Knowing the endangered species of Latin America will help spread knowledge of these animals and help to save the populations before it is too late.
The Nile crocodile, or crocodylus niloticus, is found throughout Sub-Sarahan Africa and on the island of Madagascar. As their name suggests, Nile crocodiles are commonly found in the Nile river. They have enormous mouths with several rows of sharp teeth which they use to snatch their prey out of the water.
Leopards are known to be secretive and shrewd. Among the large cats they are the strongest climbers. There are 27 different species of leopard throughout the world and they live in various climates and habitats. The leopard is one of the most adaptable felines, inhabiting areas from the sub-Saharan Africa to Asia.
As of May 2010, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service counted 618 endangered animal species in the United States. Those species listed as endangered are protected under the Endangered Species Act administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service in the Department of the Interior as well as the NOAA-Fisheries in the Department of Commerce.
Cheetahs are the fastest land animals in the world and can reach speeds of over 60 mph. Often mistaken for leopards because of their spotted coats, cheetahs are also known for their long legs and graceful bodies. Most of what is known about baby cheetahs is based on observations of these reclusive and endangered animals in the wild.
Like most primates, lemurs are cute, intelligent and full of energy. Anyone who sees one wants to have one as a pet. The problem most people have is they simply don't know where to find the little primates.
Animals that are endangered are close to becoming extinct. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Species Report states that the United States has 614 animals on the endangered list and 1,200 are on the list in North America. Various factors, including loss of habitat, cause animals to become endangered. Some endangered animals, such as the bald eagle and alligator, have recovered.
A wetland is an area that contains soil that remains wet most of the year or throughout particular seasons. This includes freestanding areas of water within a portion of land. Many species of plants and animals make wetlands their home. Wetlands are vital to the feeding methods of many animals and are important for them to sustain life. These areas provide important nutrients and minerals to the animals and plants and promote an overall healthy atmosphere.
Drawing exotic or endangered animals is just like drawing any other animal. The only difference is that it is a little difficult to get pictures of endangered animals. Various pictures of an animal are essential when it comes down to the nitty gritty of learning how to draw that animal. If there are limited poses available, then there are limited poses the artist can draw with complete confidence.
The most famous extinct animals are the dinosaurs. Paleontologists study dinosaur fossils, movies bring them back to life, and their likenesses are sold as action figures. Not all animals became extinct millions of years ago. In the modern world, animals continue to disappear from the Earth; other animals are in danger of disappearing. The article "Extinct and Endangered Animals" reports that "extinct species outnumber living ones by a factor of perhaps a thousand to one."
A variety of frogs live in the rainforest, with many of them living from two to ten years. Often, the lifespan of rainforest frogs remains unknown, as their populations keep dwindling due to destruction of the rainforest. Unfortunately, a few get added to the endangered species list each year. A deadly fungus also reduces the populations, with only the most adaptable frogs thriving in the rainforest.
Members of the small family heleophrynidae, ghost frogs are divided into only six species--two of which are considered critically endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Maintaining the ghost frog's natural habitat is a crucial factor in ensuring the survival of this animal, and understanding the nature of their home is essential toward both protecting these tiny amphibians from unnecessary threats to their existence.
According to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, an endangered species is defined as "An animal or plant species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range."
Petrified Forest National Park is located in the southwest of the United States in Arizona, and is home to the world's largest concentrations of petrified wood. The park is a refuge for several endangered species of animals and plants.
An Andean cat is a wild animal that lives in the high regions of the Andes Mountains, along the tree line. These cats generally live in Peru, Argentina, Bolivia and Chile.
An endangered animal is one that is facing extinction. Extinct animals cannot be repopulated through artificial or natural means. Extinct animals are gone forever.
Many of the world's wildlife suffer from dwindling populations. Scientists call these species "endangered," meaning that without human protections, they may become extinct. Tigers, giant pandas, polar bears, rhinoceroses, and seven different whale species are among thousands of such endangered species.
If wild animals could participate in the Olympics, the land animals of the wild would outrun any human. Most animals use their speed when overpowering prey or escaping a predator. The following maximum speed measurements "are based on measurements recorded over approximately quarter-mile distances. Exceptions are the lion, which was clocked in the act of charging, and the cheetah, which was measured over a 100-yard distance," notes the TravelAlmanac.com.
There is limited knowledge of the beautiful and reclusive tree-dwelling clouded leopards, whose territory expands over most of Asia. They live in southern China, Cambodia, Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia and Northeast India. Their habitat is under attack due to the rising rate of deforestation. Unless protective measures are taken to ensure the survival of these cats, the chance to study them further may never happen.
The Fish and Wildlife Service created the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to protect plants and animals that are at risk of becoming threatened or extinct. A species may become at risk because of declining numbers or threatened habitats.
There are more than 5,000 endangered animals on the World Wild Life Organizations's endangered species list. Some of these animals are popular and protected by people trying to save the species, but others aren't.
Many of the most beautiful animals in the Antarctic and surrounding areas are endangered. If we are not careful, these wonderful animals that are part of a larger ecosystem will soon be gone for good. Animals of all shapes and sizes are at risk despite their endangered and protected status.
One reason for species becoming endangered is the reduction of their natural habitats. A prime example of this is the loss of most of the world's rain forests along with thousands of their inhabitants. Once covering about 14 percent of the world, rain forests now only make up about 2 percent of the globe. The reasons for this range from overdeforestation to the results of global warming. Not only does the general environment of the world suffer because of this, thousands of animal species are also thrown into limbo with the loss of their homes.
Mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and other types of creatures of the European continent are listed as endangered. The European Commission has warned that not enough is being done to protect the thousands of vulnerable species across the continent. A recent report on more than 1,180 species, more than 200 types of habitat and more than 25 European Union countries concludes areas that are protected are at risk as well as the species they support.
As in much of the world, India faces diminishing populations of many of its native species. Illegal hunting, habitat loss and other factors of modern life encroach on wildlife and threaten their future. Among India's best-known species facing mounting threats are its big cats and wildcats. Among the country's feline predators are the Snow Leopard, the Bengal Tiger, the Siberian Tiger and the Fishing Cat. Beyond the cats, there are few predators listed as endangered in India with the exception of the Asiatic Brown Bear.
Koalas, often mistakenly referred to as bears, are marsupials indigenous to Australia. Marsupials are animals whose young are birthed prematurely, then develop further in the mother's pouch. The koala's natural habitat is the eucalyptus tree, since the eucalyptus leaf is its primary food source.
Tropical rainforests can be found throughout the world from the remote Hawaiian Islands to the Amazon Regions of South America. Rainforests provide a habitat for an enormous number of animal species including some not found anywhere else in the world such as the endangered Sumatran rhinoceros found only on the island of Sumatra and the Malay peninsula.
The cheetah is thought to be one of the oldest types of big cats alive today. The species is endangered but its beauty has prompted many people throughout history to try to domesticate this vulnerable animal. Domestication is difficult not just because these are wild animals, but because there are conservation laws against doing so in most areas.
There are millions of rainforest animals throughout the rainforests of the world. Some of them are very familiar and well known, while many others have yet to be discovered. This is part of what makes the rainforests of the Earth so important as there are new species discovered in these lush jungles regularly. Here is but a smattering of the various species found in the rainforest.
