recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Papuan Eagle

The **Papuan eagle** (*Harpyopsis novaeguineae*) also known as the **Papuan harpy eagle**, **New Guinea eagle**, or **Kapul eagle**, is a large (length 75–90 cm, wingspan 157 cm, weight 1600–2400 g) greyish brown raptor with a short full crest, broad three-banded wings, powerful beak, large iris, long rounded tail and white underparts. It has long and powerful unfeathered legs with sharp claws. The sexes are similar, and the female is slightly larger than the male. It is the only member of the genus ***Harpyopsis***.

The Papuan eagle is endemic to undisturbed tropical rainforests of New Guinea, where it became the top predator of the island after the extinction of local giant monitor lizards and possibly *Thylacoleo*. The diet consists mainly of phalangers or *Kapul* in a local language, hence its alternative name. It also feeds on other mammals, birds and snakes. Singing dogs are known to steal the bird's kills; in turn, the canids are part of the bird's diet.

One of a group of four large eagles, the others being the crested and harpy eagle of South America and the Philippine eagle of the Philippines (although the latter may be more closely related to species of snake eagle around the world), the New Guinea harpy eagle is essentially a mountain bird that nests in high forest trees, but may be found down to sea level in the few places where forests remain undisturbed.

Due to ongoing habitat loss, small population size, and hunting for its feathers which are used on ceremonial occasions, the Papuan eagle is evaluated as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is listed on Appendix II of CITES.
Parson's Chameleon

**Parson's chameleon** (*Calumma parsonii*) is a large species of chameleon that is endemic to isolated pockets of humid primary forest in eastern and northern Madagascar. It is listed on CITES Appendix II, meaning that trade in this species is regulated.

## Description

Among the largest chameleons in the world (variously reported as either the largest, or second-largest after the Malagasy Giant Chameleon), *C. parsonii* males have ridges running from above the eyes to the nose, forming two warty horns. There are two recognized subspecies: The widespread *Calumma p. parsonii* reaches up to 68 cm (27 in) in total length (including tail), about the size of a cat, and has no dorsal crest. *Calumma p. cristifer*, from near Andasibe, reaches 47 cm (18 1⁄2 in), and has a small dorsal crest. Several colour variants are known within the range typically included in the nominate subspecies, but it is unclear if they are best considered morphs or different subspecies (at present, most consider them morphs). This includes "orange eye" *aka* "white-lipped" (generally considered typical of the nominate subspecies), where the male is relatively small and mainly green or turquoise but with yellow or orange eyelids; "yellow lip" where the male is somewhat larger and mainly green or turquoise, but with a yellow edge to the mouth; "yellow giant" where the male is very large and overall yellowish (strongly marked with dusky when stressed); and "green giant" where the male is overall green. Males of *C. p. cristifer* are overall green or turquoise. Females of both subspecies are smaller than the males and overall greenish, yellowish or brownish (often with an orange tinge).

## Reproduction

In captivity, females of Parson's chameleon lay up to 50 eggs per clutch; the eggs can take up to two years to hatch. The female's reproductive cycle allows for egg laying only once every two years. The hatchlings are independent once they dig themselves out of their underground nest. Once the nest is dug, eggs are laid, and buried, the female's parental obligations are concluded. Parents do not contribute any care towards the young.
Pileated Woodpecker

The Pileated Woodpecker is one of the biggest, most striking forest birds on the continent. It’s nearly the size of a crow, black with bold white stripes down the neck and a flaming-red crest. Look (and listen) for Pileated Woodpeckers whacking at dead trees and fallen logs in search of their main prey, carpenter ants, leaving unique rectangular holes in the wood. The nest holes these birds make offer crucial shelter to many species including swifts, owls, ducks, bats, and pine martens.

## Identification

#### **Size & Shape**

The Pileated Woodpecker is a very large woodpecker with a long neck and a triangular crest that sweeps off the back of the head. The bill is long and chisel-like, about the length of the head. In flight, the wings are broad and the bird can seem crowlike.

#### **Color Pattern**

Pileated Woodpeckers are mostly black with white stripes on the face and neck and a flaming-red crest. Males have a red stripe on the cheek. In flight, the bird reveals extensive white underwings and small white crescents on the upper side, at the bases of the primaries.

## Behavior

Pileated Woodpeckers drill distinctive rectangular-shaped holes in rotten wood to get at carpenter ants and other insects. They are loud birds with whinnying calls. They also drum on dead trees in a deep, slow, rolling pattern, and even the heavy chopping sound of foraging carries well. Their flight undulates like other woodpeckers, which helps separate them from a crow’s straight flight path.

## Habitat

Pileated Woodpeckers are forest birds that require large, standing dead trees and downed wood. Forests can be evergreen, deciduous, or mixed and are often old, particularly in the West. In the East they live in young forests as well and may even be seen in partially wooded suburbs and backyards.

## Similar Species

Pileated Woodpeckers are such large, striking birds that they’re hard to confuse with other species. They are most similar to the Ivory-billed Woodpecker, which is now extremely rare or extinct and was only ever known from swamps of the Southeast. For information on how to distinguish the two species. The Red-headed Woodpecker is smaller with a shorter neck, an entirely red head, and large white patches on the trailing edge of the wing. At distance, in flight, American Crows flap steadily instead of with the impulsive, bounding motion of a Pileated Woodpecker, though crows show no white in the wing.

## Gallery

Rare White Pileated WoodpeckerFantasia 2000Animals-united-disneyscreencaps.com-10260.jpgBambi (1942)Gravity FallsTotal DramaWild KrattsGo, Diego, Go!Stanley
Palomino

**Palomino**, colour type of horse distinguished by its cream, yellow, or gold coat and white or silver mane and tail. The colour does not breed true. Horses of proper colour, of proper saddle-horse type, and from at least one registered parent of several light breeds can be registered as Palominos. This colour is popular for pleasure and parade classes. Their type and use depend upon their breeding and training. They may conform to the breed types of several light breeds, such as Arabian or American Quarter horse. Two associations, the Palomino Horse Breeders of America, established in 1941, and the Palomino Horse Association, established in 1936, register Palominos.

## Overview

Most breeds are classified according to lineage, but the Palomino is determined by color. Various breeds of horses can be Palominos. Quarter Horses make up about fifty percent of registered Palominos, while the remainder are Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds, American Saddle Horses, Arabians, Morgans and Tennessee Walking Horses. It is difficult to breed Palominos, as they do not regularly perpetuate their coloring genetically. Bred to one another, Palominos produce chestnuts or cremellos (a horse with 2 cream genes) as often as they produce a horse of their own color type.

## Physical Description

The Palomino is frequently a subject of attention since its bright coloring distinguishes it from other horses. The skin of the Palomino may be dark or light, although the coat must be gold in color. The coats of dark-skinned Palominos often turn white in winter, while light-skinned maintain the gold coloring year round. The Palomino stands between 14 and 17 hands. The mane and tail are white, and the eyes must be brown, black or hazel.

## Origin

The origin of the Palomino is determined, in terms of conformation, by considering the origin of the breed of which it is a member.
Sunda Scops Owl

The **Sunda scops owl** (*Otus lempiji*) is a small brown owl that is speckled with black on the upper parts and streaked with black on the lower parts. It has a light collar and dark eyes. This taxon is considered a subspecies of *Otus bakkamoena* by some authors. It grows from 20 to 25 cm and can weigh 100 to 170 grams. It lives on the Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra and Java. It is mostly found in forests and gardens but is occasionally attracted to buildings. It mainly consumes insects but will also eat rodents, lizards, and small birds. It is common throughout its range where there is suitable habitat. The Sunda scops owl lines its nest with plant fibre. It will lay up to three eggs in a tree hollow from January to April. Its call is a whooping sound every ten to fifteen seconds.
Suffolk Sheep

The **Suffolk** is a British breed of domestic sheep. It originated in the late eighteenth century in the area of Bury St. Edmunds in Suffolk, as a result of cross-breeding when Norfolk Horn ewes were put to improved Southdown rams. It is a polled, black-faced breed, and is raised primarily for its meat. It has been exported to many countries, and is among the most numerous breeds of sheep worldwide.

## History

The Suffolk originated in the area surrounding Bury St. Edmunds in Suffolk in the late eighteenth century, as a result of cross-breeding when Norfolk Horn ewes were put to improved Southdown rams. They were at first known as Blackfaces or Southdown-Norfolks; the first use of the name "Suffolk" for these sheep dates to 1797. In 1810 it was recognised as distinct breed, but was not known by the present name until 1859. A breed society, the English Suffolk Society, was formed in 1886; a flock-book published in the following year recorded some 15,000 ewes. By the end of the nineteenth century the Suffolk had displaced the Oxford Down as the principal terminal sire used on cross-bred ewes in Scotland. By the 1980s breed numbers in the United Kingdom had risen to some 500,000 head, but later fell

The Suffolk has been exported to many countries including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Czechoslovakia, France, Germany, Italy, Kenya, the Netherlands, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and the United States, and has become one of the most numerous sheep breeds in the world. It was introduced to the USA in 1888 by one G.B. Streeter of Chazy, New York. A large and long-legged sub-type has developed there; it is fast-growing, but the carcaseis of lower quality.

## Characteristics

The Suffolks are a common breed of domestic sheep. They are polled, and have black open faces along with black legs and white-woolled bodies. Suffolks are considered a large breed of sheep, their large frame and muscular bodies make them an ideal breed for meat production, however; they are also good for wool production as well.

Suffolk rams are commonly used as a terminal sire on cross-bred ewes due to their ability to produce off-spring with excellent growth and carcass traits. Spider lamb syndrome is most common in the Suffolk breed.
Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is one of the more recognizable breeds with his large head, solidly muscled body, and distinctively handsome black-and-tan markings. He is intelligent, strong, and loyal. His fans seem to fall into two camps: Those who consider their dogs to be large but gentle love bugs, and those who wish their dogs to be anything but. News stories of killer Rotties in the hands of inexperienced or less-than-savory owners have turned many people off the bad-to-the-bone dogs, but reputable breeders are picking up the pieces and restoring the reputation of the breed. A word to the wise: Don’t underestimate this dog’s power and protectiveness.

The Rottweiler is a big dog and can weigh up to a hefty 135 pounds, most of it muscle. Bred for generations to use his protective instincts and independent judgment when his family or territory is threatened, this is one tough customer. It’s no surprise that these dogs are used in police work. They’re often the target of laws aimed at controlling or banning dangerous dogs, and some insurance companies won’t sell homeowners’ policies to anyone who owns a Rottweiler.

Even so, it is entirely possible to find a gentle, family-friendly Rottweiler. Rotties from many different backgrounds can be quiet, calm, and easy-going. But all Rottweilers need structured, consistent training from an early age as well as focused socialization around children, strangers, and other pets if they are to be well-adjusted members of the family and well-mannered when taken out in public. Be fair and firm but never mean with the Rottweiler and he will repay you with love and respect.

Even the gentlest, best-behaved Rottweiler can put children, the elderly, smaller adults, and anyone who is unsteady on his feet at risk. A vestige of the dog’s heritage as a cattle herder is bumping — and the nicest Rottie’s idea of a playful nudge might have a much greater impact.

Rotties put on weight easily and need at least a couple of 10- to 20-minute walks daily, plus mental stimulation in the form of training and puzzle toys to keep their bodies and minds in shape. Even five minutes of practicing obedience skills in the backyard will give the Rottie a feeling of accomplishment. Rotties thrive when they have work to do, whether it’s obedience competition, competitive protection work, agility, carting, therapy dog work, or herding.

It’s no surprise that over the years the Rottweiler has excelled as a police dog, herding dog, service dog, therapy dog, and obedience competitor. In fact, the Rottweiler can do nearly anything asked of him, and if you don’t ask, he’ll probably find something to do on his own — which may involve eating your sofa or digging a hole for that swimming pool you always wanted in the backyard. But in the right home, with early socialization and training, the Rottweiler can be a wonderful companion, alguardian, and all-around dog. He should live indoors as a family dog.

## Gallery

Animals-united-disneyscreencaps.com-4640.jpg
Nile Monitor

With an almost insatiable appetite, the Nile monitor is renowned for eating just about anything it can overpower or find as carrion. Consequently, its diet includes everything from arthropods, amphibians and fish, to birds, small mammals and other reptiles. Hunting strategies vary, but it is rare for the Nile monitor to shy away from a challenge, and it will even team up with other individuals to steal eggs from larger predators such as Nile crocodiles. While one monitor provokes a female crocodile away from a nesting site, another will dig up the unguarded eggs.

Propelled by its powerful tail, the Nile monitor is an excellent swimmer and can reportedly spend up to one hour submerged. Although largely aquatic, the mornings are often spent basking in the sun on rocky outcrops or sandy banks. On land, it walks with a sinuous swagger and will sometimes climb trees to bask, feed or sleep. However, this species is more vulnerable on land and if threatened will normally do its best to avoid injury and will flee to the safety of deep water. When escape is not an easy option, it will boldly defend itself, using its hefty tail, sharp teeth and powerful claws to injure or frighten away the aggressor.

Following mating, which takes place at the end of the rainy season, the female lays up to 60 eggs (the largest clutch size of any lizard) in termite mounds or burrows. Under fairly constant temperature and humidity, the unattended eggs are incubated over a period of six to nine months before hatching. The brightly coloured hatchlings survive on a diet comprised of insects, spiders, snails and other small animals, and reach maturity after three to four years.

## Range and Habitat

The distribution of the Nile monitor extends through much of sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal across to Somalia and down to northeast South Africa. It also occurs along the Nile up into southern Egypt. Given its colossal range, it is no surprise that the Nile monitor occurs in a wide variety of habitats, wherever there are permanent bodies of water. Although this excludes deserts, this species has been found in most other habitats including grassland, scrub, forests, mangroves, swamps, lakes and rivers.
Tiger Salamander

The **tiger salamander** or **eastern tiger salamander** (*Ambystoma tigrinum*) is a North American species of mole salamander. Tiger salamanders grow to a typical length of 6–8 in (15–20 cm) and a maximum of 14 in (36 cm) in length, particularly neotenic individuals. Adults are usually blotchy with grey, green, or black, and have large, lidded eyes. They have short snouts, thick necks, sturdy legs, and long tails. Their diets consist largely of small insects and worms, though it is not rare for an adult to consume small frogs and baby mice.

Adults are rarely seen in the open, and often live in burrows that are usually two feet from the surface. Tiger salamanders are almost entirely terrestrial as adults, and usually only return to the water to breed, but also they partly live in both land and water. Although tiger salamanders are terrestrial, they are good swimmers. Like all ambystomatids, they are extremely loyal to their birthplaces, and will travel long distances to reach them. However, a single tiger salamander has only a 50% chance of breeding more than once in its lifetime. Males nudge a willing female to initiate mating, and then deposit a spermatophore on the lake bottom. The female picks up the packet and deposits the now-fertilized eggs on vegetation. Large-scale captive breeding of tiger salamanders has not been accomplished, for unknown reasons.

The larva is entirely aquatic, and is characterized by large external gills and a prominent caudal fin that originates just behind the head, similar to the Mexican axolotl. Limbs are fully developed within a short time of hatching. Some larvae, especially in seasonal pools and in the north, may metamorphose as soon as feasible. These are known as small morph adults. Other larvae, especially in ancestral pools and warmer climates, may not metamorphose until fully adult size. These large larvae are usually known as waterdogs, and are used extensively in the fishing bait and pet trade. Some populations may not metamorphose at all, and become sexually mature while in their larval form. These are the neotenes, and are particularly common where terrestrial conditions are bad. They are also very hardy.
Mouse Lemur

The **mouse lemurs** are nocturnal lemurs of the genus ***Microcebus***. Like all lemurs, mouse lemurs are native to Madagascar. Mouse lemurs have a combined head, body and tail length of less than 27 centimetres (11 in), making them the smallest primates (the smallest species being Madame Berthe's mouse lemur); however, their weight fluctuates in response to daylight duration. Lemurs and Mouse Lemurs were announced by the IUCN as the most endangered of all vertebrates. There are about 24 mouse lemur species identified by 2016. There were only 2 known mouse lemur species by 1992. It was estimated that the 24 mouse lemur species evolved from a common ancestor 10 million years ago. Evolution of mouse lemurs is an example for adaptive radiation.

Mouse lemurs are omnivorous; their diets are diverse and include insects secretions, arthropods, small vertebrates, gum, fruit, flowers, nectar, and also leaves and buds depending on the season.

Mouse lemurs are considered cryptic species - with very little morphological differences between the various species, but with high genetic diversity. Recent evidence points to differences in their mating calls, which is very diverse. Since mouse lemurs are nocturnal, they might not have evolved to look differently, but had evolved various auditory and vocal systems. Mouse lemurs have the smallest known brain of any primate, at just 0.004 pounds (2 grams).

## Reproduction and Evolution

Mouse lemurs are also known for their sperm competition. During breeding seasons, the testicles of male mouse lemurs increase in size to about 130% of their normal size. This was speculated to increase the sperm production thereby conferring an advantage for the individual to bear more offspring. There are various hypotheses relating the rapid evolution of mouse lemur species to this sperm competition.

## Species

* Genus ***Microcebus***: mouse lemurs
	+ Gray mouse lemur, *Microcebus murinus*
	+ Reddish-gray mouse lemur, *M. griseorufus*
	+ Golden-brown mouse lemur, *M. ravelobensis*
	+ Northern rufous mouse lemur, *M. tavaratra*
	+ Sambirano mouse lemur, *M. sambiranensis*
	+ Simmons' mouse lemur, *M. simmonsi*
	+ Pygmy mouse lemur, *M. myoxinus*
	+ Brown mouse lemur, *M. rufus*
	+ Madame Berthe's mouse lemur, *M. berthae*
	+ Goodman's mouse lemur, *M. lehilahytsara*
	+ Jolly's mouse lemur, *M. jollyae*
	+ MacArthur's mouse lemur, *M. macarthurii*
	+ Mittermeier's mouse lemur, *M. mittermeieri*
	+ Claire's mouse lemur, *M. mamiratra*, synonymous to *M. lokobensis*
	+ Bongolava mouse lemur *M. bongolavensis*
	+ Danfoss' mouse lemur *M. danfossi*
	+ Arnhold's mouse lemur, *M. arnholdi*
	+ Margot Marsh's mouse lemur, *M. margotmarshae*
	+ Gerp's mouse lemur. *M. gerpi*
	+ Anosy mouse lemur. *M. tanosi*
	+ Marohita mouse lemur. *M. marohita*
	+ Ganzhorn's mouse lemur. *M. ganzhorni*
	+ *Microcebus boraha*
	+ *Microcebus manitatra*
Sportive Lemur

The **sportive lemurs** are the medium-sized primates that make up the family **Lepilemuridae**. The family consists of only one extant genus, ***Lepilemur***. They are closely related to the other lemurs and exclusively live on the island of Madagascar. For a time, this family was named **Megaladapidae**, but the current name was given precedence since the extinct genus *Megaladapis* was removed from the family.

## Etymology

French zoologist Isidore Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire first described the genus *Lepilemur* in 1851, prefixing the existing genus *Lemur* with the Latin *lepidus*("pleasant" or "pretty"). However, it was erroneously spelled—a mistake later authors unsuccessfully attempted to correct to *Lepidolemur*. Members of the monogeneric family Lepilemuridae are referred to as either sportive or weasel lemurs. "Sportive lemur", which is more commonly used, was coined by Henry Ogg Forbes in 1894. Though he did not explain the name choice, he did mention the agility of *Lepilemur*. "Weasel lemur" is an older common name, dating to the 1863 publication of *Cassell's Popular National History*. Dunkel *et al.* speculated that was inspired by the species name *L. mustelinus*, which means "weasel-like" in Latin.

## Physical Characteristics

Their fur is grey brown or reddish colored on the top and whitish yellow underneath. They typically have a short head with large, round ears. They grow to a length of 30 to 35 cm (with a tail just about as long as their body) and weigh up to 0.9 kg. Their eyes have a tapetum lucidum behind the retina, hence they have eyeshine.

## Behavior and Mating

Sportive lemurs are strictly nocturnal and predominantly arboreal, moving among the trees with long jumps powered by their strong hind legs. On the ground, they hop similarly to the kangaroo. During the day they hide in leafy covering or tree hollows. Sportive lemurs are solitary and defend their territory against same sex intruders. The territories of males and females can overlap.

## Diet

They are mainly herbivores and their diet consists predominantly of leaves.

## Reproduction and Lifespan

Birthing happens between September and December after a gestation of 120 to 150 days, and is usually of a single young which is often reared in a nest in a tree hollow. At about four months the juveniles are weaned but remain with their mother up to an age of one year. At about 18 months they are fully mature, and live to be about eight years old.
Stonefish

This fish is a stout, slow-moving predator, with superb camouflage and deadly venom produced by glands at the base of its 13 dorsel spines. The spines are equipped with sharp tips, and these can easily penetrate human feet, sometimes with fatal results. The stonefish hunts by lying in wait for its prey, sometimes half burying itself in the sea bed When partialy buried, its upturned head and protruding eyes allow it to locate prey close by.
Yellow Tang

The **yellow tang** (*Zebrasoma flavescens*) is a saltwater fish species of the family Acanthuridae. It is one of the most popular aquarium fish, many of which were taken from the wild prior to the closure of the West Hawaii Aquarium Fishery on January 12th, 2021. Aquacultured yellow tang have become increasingly availably to aquarium hobbyists as aquaculture methods for the species are refined. Ongoing research to aquaculture greater volumes of yellow tang to meet industry demand are underway at the Oceanic Institute in Hawaii. Presently, collection of wild caught yellow tang from Hawaii is prohibited until further notice.

## Taxonomy

The yellow tang was first described by English naturalist Edward Turner Bennett as *Acanthurus flavescens* in 1828 from a collection in the Hawaiian Islands. Its species name is the Latin adjective *flavescens* "yellow". Yellow tang are in the surgeonfish family.

## Description

Adult fish can grow to 20 centimetres (7.9 in) in length, and 1–2 centimetres (0.39–0.79 in) in thickness. Adult males tend to be larger than females. Yellow tang are bright yellow in color. At night, the yellow coloring fades slightly, and a prominent brownish patch develops in the middle with a horizontal white band. They rapidly resume their bright yellow color during daylight.

## Food

In the wild, yellow tang feed on benthic turf algae and other marine plant material. In captivity they are commonly fed meat/fish based aquarium food, but the long term health effects of this diet are questionable. However, most experts in the marine aquarium industry express little skepticism that such a well rounded and balanced diet including plant and animal material would be in any way detrimental to mostly herbivorous fishes like tangs, since they still need on occasion, complex amino acids and nutrients that only ocean animals can provide. In the wild, yellow tang provide cleaner services to marine turtles, by removing algal growth from their shells.

## Distribution and habitat

It is commonly found in shallow reefs, from 2–46 metres (6.6–150.9 ft) deep, in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, west of Hawaii and east of Japan. Hawaii is the most common place for aquarium harvesting, where up to 70% of the yellow tangs for the aquarium industry are sourced from. The yellow tang has been recorded in waters around Florida, where it is not native.

## Gallery

Animals-united-disneyscreencaps.com-4470.jpg
White Collared Mangabey

The **collared mangabey** (***Cercocebus torquatus***), also known as the **red-capped mangabey**, or the **white-collared mangabey** (leading to easy confusion with *Cercocebus atys lunulatus*), is a species of primate in the family Cercopithecidae of Old World monkeys. It formerly included the sooty mangabey as a subspecies. As presently defined, the collared mangabey is monotypic.

## Description

The collared mangabey has grey fur covering its body, but its common names refer to the colours on its head and neck. Its prominent chestnut-red cap gives it the name *red-capped*, and its white collar gives it the names *collared* and *white-collared*. Its ears are black and it has striking white eyelids, which is why some refer to it as the "four-eyed monkey". It has a dark grey tail that exceeds the length of the body and is often held with the white tip over its head. It has long molars and very large incisors. The average body mass for captive individuals ranges from 9 to 10 kg (20 to 22 lb) for males and 7.5 to 8.6 kg (17 to 19 lb) for females. Head-body length is 47–67 cm (19–26 in) in males and 45–60 cm (18–24 in) in females.

## Habitat and Distribution

The collared mangabey is found in coastal, swamp, mangrove, and valley forests, from western Nigeria, east and south into Cameroon, and throughout Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon, and on the Gabon-Congo border by the Atlantic shore.

## Behavior

The collared mangabey lives in large groups of 10 to 35 individuals including several males. Vocal communication in the form of cackles and barks are used to keep the group in contact and signal their position to other groups. It has a diet of fruits and seeds, but also eats leaves, foliage, flowers, invertebrates, mushrooms, dung, and gum. The collared mangabey has no defined breeding season, it reaches sexual maturity at five to seven years, and has an average gestation period of 170 days.

## Threats

In 2006, it was estimated that annually about 3,000 collared mangabeys are hunted in the Cross-Sanaga-Bioko coastal forests for the bushmeat trade.

## Conservation

The collared mangabey is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and hunting for bushmeat. It is also listed on Appendix II of CITES and on Class B of the African Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.
White-Backed Vulture

The White-backed vulture, an Old World vulture, is the most common large vulture in Africa and is an accomplished scavenger that eats the carcasses of large animals. Hundreds of these vultures gather to feed on large dead animals. They gorge themselves so much they cannot fly, and then rest with wings spread and their backs facing the sun.

## Distribution

These vultures live in Africa, south of the Sahara, and in much of Namibia and South Africa, and the equatorial forests in West Africa. They are common in wooded areas where large grazing mammals are found. They are sometimes found along streams.

## Habits and Lifestyle

White-backed vultures are highly social and diurnal. It is gregarious in its feeding habits, and large numbers of them gather when food is abundant. Often, as many as 100 White-backed vultures may gather near a dead animal. With so many competitors for food, fights happen. They are very tame birds, and will venture into towns, looking for food. They are adapted for feeding on soft tissue, and are not able to tear open large carcasses that have thick skin. They search for food by soaring high in the air, using their keen eyesight. Once an individual sees a freshly killed animal, it will wheel in the sky as a signal to other vultures to fly down and eat. After gorging on food, a vulture may bathe at a favorite site with other species, or rest with its wings spread and back to the sun.

## Diet and Nutrition

White-backed vultures are carnivores and scavengers, they eat mainly carcasses and bone fragments.

## Mating Habits

White-backed vultures are monogamous breeders and pairs stay together for life. They breed in the dry season, nesting with 2 to 13 birds in a loose colony. They make their nest at the top of a tall tree within their territory, often beside a stream. The nest is a small one for the size of this large vulture, and is a platform made from sticks, the interior lined with green leaves and grass. A single egg is laid and incubation is by both parents, for about 56 days. The parents will then take part in feeding and caring for the chick until it fledges and leaves the nest after about 4 months.

## Population

### Population Threats

The main threats to the White-backed vulture are: the conversion and loss of their habitat for agriculture, less available carrion due to declining wild ungulate populations, being hunted for traditional medicine use, illegal capture for the live trade, drowning in farm reservoirs, electrocution from electricity pylons, persecution and poisoning.

### Population Number

According to the IUCN Red List, this species is the most widespread and common vulture in Africa, and the total population size of the White-backed vulture is 270,000 individuals. Currently this species is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) and its numbers today are decreasing.

### Ecological Niche

White-backed vultures have a very important role in the ecosystem. By removing animal remains, these scavengers clean up the environment, helping to prevent diseases from spreading.
Spotted Dolphin

Often observed in the clear, shallow waters surrounding the Bahamas, the Atlantic spotted dolphin is said to be an intermediate in appearance between the bottlenose dolphin and pantropical spotted dolphin. Its sturdy body is light grey, with a dark grey ‘cape’ on the back, and a white belly. A light streak extends up the shoulder, ending just below the dorsal fin, one feature which differentiates this species from the similar pantropical spotted dolphin. As the name suggests, many individuals are patterned with spots, although not all. All calves are unspotted, but some will develop spots as they age, with a number of dolphins becoming so heavily spotted they appear white from a distance. The beak of the Atlantic spotted dolphin is fairly long and sharply demarcated from the melon, and the dorsal fin is tall and sickle-shaped. Atlantic spotted dolphins inhabiting the far-offshore waters of the Gulf Stream can be smaller and completely unspotted, even as adults.

## Biology

This social marine mammal forms groups consisting of up to 100 individuals; those inhabiting coastal areas generally form the smallest schools, of 5 to 15 dolphins. These schools, which may be segregated by age and sex, have a fluid structure, with dolphins joining and splitting into smaller groups, although long-term bonds are also formed within this gregarious social system. In the Bahamas, Atlantic spotted dolphins are often known to associate with bottlenose dolphins as they travel and search for fish, squid and bottom-dwelling invertebrates on which to feed.

The Atlantic spotted dolphin is an acrobatic species, frequently riding the bow waves of boats, leaping out of the water, and playing at every opportunity. It is also capable of diving to up to 60 metres, remaining underwater for up to 6 minutes. It is known to be preyed on by sharks, but killer whales and other small-toothed whales may also be predators of this dolphin. Mature female Atlantic spotted dolphins give birth every one to five years, with the average interval between births being three years. The young is nursed for up to five years, and females become sexually mature at an estimated eight to fifteen years of age.

## Range and Habitat

Found only in the Atlantic, this spotted dolphin occurs from southern Brazil to New England in the west, to the coast of Africa in the east, generally between 50°N and 25°S. The Atlantic spotted dolphin inhabits tropical and warm temperate waters. It is found most often in waters over the continental shelf, but may also inhabit deep oceanic waters in some areas. In the Bahamas, this species can be observed in clear, shallow waters, between 6 and 12 metres deep, over sandflats.
Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a large dog with short fur sometimes nicknamed the "Grey Ghost". They were originally bred to be hunting dogs in the early 19th century to catch big game such as boars, bears and deer. The breed's name translates to "from Weimar", Weimar being the city in Germany in which these dogs were first bred, and the German suffix "-aner" meaning "from (a place)".

Weimaraners have very high stamina and speed, making them an ideal dog for many different dog sports. Dog sports that a Weimaraner would do well in are agility, dock diving, field trials, hunting trials, frisbee, musical freestyle, scent hurdles, flyball and scent tracking.
Swordfish

The Swordfish offers a very interesting body. They have the long bill that looks similar to a sword and that is where their name derives from. They are very predatory fish and they are also a class that many sport fishermen love to be able to capture. They can be up to 15 feet in length when fully mature. They can weigh up to 1,400 pounds so anyone fishing for them will have a challenge on their hands.

## Description

The body is very large and of bluish color. They have white on them at the bottom so that they can blend in well from the upper part of the water as well as with what is found living below it. They have long fins and a flat tail. They are able to move fast in the water. They have a special organ that allows them to heat their eyes and brain. This makes it possible for them to have excellent vision when they need it.

## Distribution

The Swordfish is found in oceans around the world. They tend to stick to areas of the water that are warmer. The majority of them though are found in the Pacific Ocean. They tend to migrate a great deal in order to find food and to be able to stay in warmer areas of water. They also will go back to cooler waters in the summer to prevent from getting to hot. Ideally, they want water that is between 64 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

## Behavior

The long bill is very sharp and it helps them to remain left alone from other forms of aquatic life. When they are threatened though they can use it to help them to have some type of defense against the predator. They are isolated fish and they don’t form schools. Sometimes there will be numbers of them in an area such as basking at the surface of the water. They just tend to all be in the same area looking for food though. They take part in jumping and many humans love to see this take place. Experts believe this process of jumping allows them to remove parasites from their bodies.

**Feeding**

The long bill of the Swordfish allows it to slice at its prey. They don’t spear it like people often think though. They do the best they can to injure it so that they are able to catch it. They are very fast, moving at speeds up to 50 miles per hour. This allows them to have an advantage over their prey. They feed on fish such as rockfish and the barracuda. Squid also make up a big part of their diet. They tend to do most of their searching for food at night. They can consume large amounts of food due to their size.

## Reproduction

They are ready for mating from 5 to 6 years of age. Spawning takes place in the warm waters from March through July. However, in some locations there are warm waters all year long so they can mate at any time. The females can lay thousands of eggs but only a small percentage of them will survive. The eggs are a common type of food for different types of aquatic life.

## Conservation

Their numbers are doing better due to many restaurants deciding to take Swordfish off the menu in the late 1990’s. Without those buyers the commercial fishing of them was significantly reduced. However, problems with boats sharing the same water as them and pollution continue to threatened their overall survival.
Turnip-Tailed Gecko

The **turnip-tailed gecko** (*Thecadactylus rapicauda*) is a species of gecko widely distributed from Mexico southward
through Central America and into South America as far south as Brazil, and on many islands in the Lesser Antilles. It was long thought to be the only member of its genus, until *T. solimoensis* was described in 2007.

It is a large gecko, reaching a length of 120 mm snout-to-vent. Its color varies from pale to dark gray to deep orange. Individuals can also change color. It can vocalize a series of chirps, which it mainly does while active at night. Its name comes from its swollen tail, which is used to store fat. It also waves its tail as a sign of aggression, and can shed its tail to distract predators. They are nocturnal in nature and are frequently found 5–30 feet up the trunks of palm trees.
Yellow Baboon

The **yellow baboon** (*Papio cynocephalus*) is a baboon in the family of Old World monkeys. The species epithet literally means "dog-head" in Greek, due to the shape of its muzzle and head. It has a slim body with long arms and legs and a yellowish-brown hair. It resembles the Chacma baboon, but is smaller and its muzzle is not as elongated. The hairless face is black, framed with white sideburns. Males can grow to about 84 cm, females to about 60 cm. It has a long tail which grows to be nearly as long as the body. Their life spans are roughly 20–30 years.

The yellow baboon inhabits savannas and light forests in eastern Africa, from Kenya and Tanzania to Zimbabweand Botswana. It is diurnal, terrestrial, and lives in complex, mixed-gender social groups of eight to 200 individuals per troop. It is omnivorous with a preference for fruits, but it also eats other plant parts, as well as insects. Baboons are highly opportunistic eaters and will eat almost any food they come across.

Yellow baboons use at least 10 different vocalizations to communicate. When traveling as a group, males will lead, females and the young stay safe in the middle, and less-dominant males bring up the rear. A baboon group's hierarchy is such a serious matter, some subspecies have developed interesting behaviors intended to avoid confrontation and retaliation. For example, males have frequently been documented using infants as a kind of "passport" for safe approach toward another male. One male will pick up the infant and hold it up as it nears the other male. This action often calms the approached male and allows the former male to approach safely.

Baboons are important in their natural environment, not only serving as food for larger predators, but also aiding in seed dispersal due to their messy foraging habits. They are also efficient predators of smaller animals and their young, keeping some animals' populations in check.

Baboons have been able to fill a tremendous number of different ecological niches, including places considered adverse to other animals, such as regions taken over by human settlement. Thus, they are one of the most successful African primates and are not listed as threatened or endangered. However, the same behavioral adaptations that make them so successful also cause them to be considered pests by humans in many areas. Raids on farmers' crops and other such intrusions into human settlements have made baboons subject to organized exterminations projects. It is important to remember however, that habitat loss is the driving force behind baboons' migration toward areas of human settlement.
Veiled Chameleon

The **veiled chameleon** (*Chamaeleo calyptratus*) is a species of chameleon native to the Arabian Peninsula in Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Other common names include **cone-head chameleon** and **Yemen chameleon**.

## Description

The male is 43 to 61 cm (17 to 24 in) long from the snout to the tip of the tail. The female is shorter, no more than about 35 cm (14 in), but it has a thicker body. Both sexes have a casque on the head which grows larger as the chameleon matures, reaching about 5 cm (2.0 in) in the largest adults. Newly hatched young are pastel green in color and develop stripes as they grow. Adult females are green with white, orange, yellow, or tan mottling. Adult males are brighter with more defined bands of yellow or blue and some mottling.

Coloration can be affected by several factors, including social status. In experimental conditions, young veiled chameleons reared in isolation are darker and duller in color than those raised with other individuals. Females change color across their reproductive cycles. Chameleons also tend to change to a much darker color when stressed.

## Behavior and Ecology

This chameleon lives in a number of habitat types in its native range, including plateaus, mountains, and valleys. Like other chameleons, it is arboreal, living in trees and other large plants. It prefers warmer temperatures, generally between 24 to 35 °C (75 to 95 °F). The veiled chameleon is an omnivore. It favors insects, and it also eats plant matter, especially as a source of water.

The life span is about 5 years for females, and up to 8 years for males. They reach sexual maturity at four to five months. They breed more than once a year. The female lays large clutches of up to 85 eggs and buries them in sand. The eggs are white with a tough skin. The embryos experience a diapause, a length of time when they are dormant in the egg before they begin developing. Increasing temperatures in the substrate initiate development. Males display for females during courtship, performing behaviors such as "head rolls" and "chin rubs". Females change color when they are receptive to breeding, and males are more likely to court them during this time.
Tufted Titmouse

The **tufted titmouse** (*Baeolophus bicolor*) is a small songbird from North America, a species in the tit and chickadee family (Paridae). The black-crested titmouse, found from central and southern Texas southwards, was included as a subspecies but is now considered a separate species *B. atricristatus*. These birds have grey upperparts and white underparts with a white face, a grey crest, a dark forehead and a short stout bill; they have rufous-coloured flanks. The song is usually described as a whistled *peter-peter-peter*. They make a variety of different sounds, most having a similar tone quality.

The habitat is deciduous and mixed woods as well as gardens, parks and shrubland in the eastern United States; they barely range into southeastern Canada in the Great Lakes region. They are all-year residents in the area effectively circumscribed by the Great Plains, the Great Lakes, the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The range is expanding northwards, possibly due to increased availability of winter food at bird feeders. The birds are nowadays resident all year even in rural Ohio where there are few bird feeders, while it was noted around 1905 that many birds from these areas migrated south in winter.

They forage actively on branches, sometimes on the ground, mainly eating insects, especially caterpillars, but also seeds, nuts and berries. They will store food for later use. They tend to be curious about their human neighbors and can sometimes be spotted on window ledges peering into the windows to watch what's going on inside. They are more shy when seen at bird feeders; their normal pattern there is to scout the feeder from the cover of trees or bushes, fly to the feeder, take a seed, and fly back to cover to eat it.

Tufted titmice nest in a hole in a tree, either a natural cavity, a man-made nest box, or sometimes an old woodpecker nest. They line the nest with soft materials, sometimes plucking hair from a live animal such as a dog.[4] If they find shed snake skin, they will try to incorporate pieces of it in their nest. Their eggs are under an inch long and are white or cream-colored with brownish or purplish spots. Sometimes, a bird born the year before remains to help its parents raise the next year's young. The pair may remain together and defend their territory year-round. These birds are permanent residents and often join small mixed flocks in winter.