The Mouse Deer, also known as Chevrotain, is a really peculiar little ungulate. Captivating and elusive in equal measure. They belong to two genera 'Tragulus' and 'Moschiola', which are members of the 'Tragulidae' family. This is the only family in the infraorder 'Tragulina', … [Read more...]
Endangered Species
Many animals in the world are in danger of becoming extinct.
This is a problem because it means that future generations may never get to see these animals in the wild. Some people may think that this doesn't matter, but it does. These animals play an important role in their ecosystems, and they are also fascinating creatures that deserve to be saved.
What is the IUCN Red List?
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species is a list of species that have been categorized as threatened or endangered.
A species will be classified as "Endangered" if it meets the following criteria:
The species possess a very high risk of extinction as a result of rapid population declines of 50 to more than 70 percent over the previous 10 years (or three generations), a current population size of fewer than 250 individuals, or other factors
Bandicoots – Small Marsupials With Big Snouts
Ever heard of the Bandicoot? You might have heard of the infamous 'Crash Bandicoot' that was centre stage to a host of PlayStation games. But do you know much about the incredible little marsupials on which that character is very loosely based?These fascinating marsupials, … [Read more...]
Pufferfish – Why They Inflate And Other Facts
The Pufferfish, are a large family of fish scientifically known as Tetraodontidae. Within this family are 28 different genera, and around 193 unique species. Across the range, they are some of the ocean's and freshwater's most intriguing creatures.With the ability to inflate … [Read more...]
Sturgeon – Ancient Freshwater Fish
Sturgeons are a group of paddlefish belonging to the family Acipenseridae, that have been around for a very long time. Often referred to as 'living fossils,' these remarkable fish have been around for approximately 200 million years! They have been around long enough to witness … [Read more...]
Prairie Dogs – A Keystone Species of the American Plains
Prairie dogs, are an adorable sight in the grasslands of North America. With their curious eyes and bustling communities, they are full of character and charm. Contrary to their name, they aren't related to canids but are herbivorous burrowing rodents. They belong to the genus … [Read more...]
Garter Snakes – From Gardens to Wetlands to Household Pets
Garter Snakes, are small snakes that make up the genus 'Thamnophis', in the subfamily Natricinae. Within the genus, there are around 37 species and over 50 subspecies. The most numerous is the common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) which has 13 subspecies across their … [Read more...]
Mayfly – A Glimpse Into Their Delicate Existence
Mayfly, scientifically known as the order 'Ephemeroptera' are incredible little insects, found in fresh water environments all over the world. These delicate creatures are like nature's fleeting artwork, here today and gone tomorrow. With species found worldwide (except … [Read more...]
Coati – The Lesser-Known Ring-Tailed Wanderers
The Coati, is a fascinating member of the animal kingdom, that often goes unnoticed amidst the vast biodiversity of the Americas. Scientifically classified under the genera Nasua and Nasuella, these animals are not just another raccoon, even though they share a family - … [Read more...]
Black Footed Ferret
The black footed ferret (Mustela nigripes), also known as the American polecat or prairie dog hunter, is a species of mustelid belonging to the Mustelidae and the genus Mustela. The black-footed ferret is similar in appearance to the European polecat and the Asian steppe … [Read more...]
Numbat
The numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus), also known as the noombat or walpurti is a marsupial belonging to the Myrmecobiidae and the genus Myrmecobius. The numbat was once widespread across southern Australia, but is now restricted to several small colonies in Western Australia. This … [Read more...]