Comparisons
How strong are gorillas, and how do they compare with humans?
Gorillas are the heaviest apes and far stronger than people, but no scientist has measured a gorilla's lift, pull, punch…
The field guide
Comparisons
Gorillas are the heaviest apes and far stronger than people, but no scientist has measured a gorilla's lift, pull, punch…
Diet & feeding
Grizzly bears are omnivores that eat plants, pine nuts, moths, fish and meat. Their menu changes with the seasons, from…
Anatomy & appearance
Every bear species has a tail, usually 3 to 20 cm long and hidden in fur. The giant panda even…
Diet & feeding
Praying mantises are ambush predators that use their powerful front legs to grab and hold onto their prey while they…
Diet & feeding
Owls are fascinating birds that are known for their large, forward-facing eyes, sharp talons, and silent flight. These nocturnal birds…
Conservation & population
Polar bears are not endangered: they are Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and Threatened in the US. About 26,000…
Diet & feeding
Snow leopards live mainly on wild sheep and goats such as blue sheep and ibex, plus marmots. They kill a…
Habitat & range
Huntsman spiders are found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Asia, the Americas, and Africa. In Australia, they…
Speed
Nobody has measured a wild jaguar at full speed. The popular 80 km/h figure is unproven. Jaguars are ambush hunters…
Speed
Polar bears can sprint at about 40 km/h (25 mph) for short distances, but they overheat fast. Grizzlies are quicker,…
Lifespan
Wild Virginia opossums usually live just 1.5 to 2 years, and 3 to 4 in human care. Here is why…
Anatomy & appearance
The okapi was first discovered by Europeans in 1901 when British explorer Harry Johnston came across it during his expedition…