The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is native to South America and is the largest living rodent species. They’re known for being very gregarious, often photographed nearby other animal species, and they reside in semi-aquatic habitats. Their social groups have been noted to range from 6-16 adult members, and they have what’s called a “strictly linear” social…

The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is native to the eastern Himalayan mountains and southwestern China. The populations in the wild are decreasing due to habitat loss and deforestation. Thus, research has been done on their reproductive activities in captivity, to explore future breeding opportunities to assure the species remains. Reproductive behaviors between males and females…

The humpback whale is the only species of whale in Megaptera, and is very popular for whale-watching because they often breach the surface of the ocean. These magnificent animals have one of the largest migration lengths of any mammal, for example, traveling 10,000 km. They typically travel from high latitudes to feed and move to…

Check out this fun fact about osprey!

The Sierra Nevada red fox has been listed as endangered since 2021, and as of 2023, it may disappear from the Yosemite area without conservation efforts. These foxes are well-adapted to cold, high-elevation environments thanks to their thick coats. Like other red foxes, they have a white-tipped tail. For red foxes, mating occurs in winter,…

Mexican free-tailed bats are impressive aerial hunters—capable of flying up to 60 miles per hour on average! They feed on moths and other flying insects, playing a key role in natural pest control. Art by Allen Butler-Struben, Instagram & Twitter @BLIRTT. Fact by Nicole Rodrigues, Twitter @n3rodrigues [Edited by Nicole Rodrigues] Reference: Bat Conservation International….

Domestic cats and bears both belong to the order Carnivora. Bears have an incredible sense of smell — for instance, black bears may be able to detect scents from 1 to 2 miles away. This powerful ability helps them locate food across great distances. Cats, can rotate their ears 180 degrees to better detect prey….

Check out this fun fact about Japanese raccoon dogs!

The alpaca is a South American camelid, often found grazing the impressive heights like the Andes Mountains. They have become popularized as a livestock animal, being raised for their wool. Baby alpacas, called crias, are dependent on their mother’s milk for several months after birth. Mothers will also perform allonursing, where they nurse the young…

Hummingbirds (family Trochilidae) are well known for their rapid flight and unique beaks that allow them to drink nectar from deep inside of flowers. A recent study showed that they will forage for nectar in the sun, even when temperatures are high and shade is available. Art by @misterkawaii_art [Edited by Isabelle McDonald] Reference: Lawrence,…