11 Amazing Facts About Animals | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

11 Amazing Facts About Animals

We share this world with some pretty spectacular creatures

132
11 Amazing Facts About Animals
Pinterest

We share this earth with an innumerable species of animals. In fact, around 10,000 new species are discovered every year! Each species is unique in their own way. In honor of their uniqueness, here are eleven facts about animals.

1. Crocodiles carry their young in their mouths

Crocodiles are one of the few reptiles that actually care for their young. Despite having the most powerful jaws on the Earth, they are able to carefully transport their young in a throat patch.

2. (Wild) Lions make only 20 kills in a single year

When most people think of predators, they probably think of lions (among others). But the truth is, wild lions only make 20 kills in a year. Lionesses are responsible for 90% of these kills, and they eat mice, lizards, tortoises, warthogs, wildebeests, zebras, buffaloes, young elephants, rhinos, hippos, and giraffes

3. Only three mammals actually go through menopause

Humans, short-finned pilot whales, and killer whales. All other mammals reproduce until they die. No one knows why only these three go through menopause. One theory states that it is because they need to care for their existing children and grandchildren.

4. Squirrels plant thousand of trees each year because they forget where they plant their seeds

In preparation for hibernation, squirrels bury their acorns. Then, when they're ready to go to sleep for the winter, they dig up their food and go to bed. Except, not all of these acorns are dug up. Squirrels are capable of forgetting things too, which results in new trees.

5. Dolphins name each other

One of the most intelligent mammals is the dolphin. In 2013, it was discovered that they have names for each other! They use a unique whistle to identify each other. When a dolphin hears their own call (aka their "name"), they respond!

6. The Turritopsis dohrnii jellyfish is the only immortal creature

Discovered in 1883, this jellyfish is found in the Mediterranean Sea and in Japanese waters. They are able to literally cheat death at the last minute. Instead of dying, they can "renew themselves" and basically become young again.

7. Crows can talk

Crows are insanely smart: they can remember faces, play pranks on each other, take over the world, and leave gifts for people. Like parrots, they can mimic sounds. This includes human speech. So, basically crows can talk.

8. Male Gentoo and Adelie penguins "propose" to their mates

And you thought penguins couldn't get any cuter? Male Gentoo and Adelie penguins "propose" to their mates with a stone. If she accepts, she puts it in her nest and he becomes her mate. Both species of penguins also mate for life.

9. Tigers have striped skin (not just fur!)

Tigers are known for their beautiful stripes and orange (or sometimes white) fur. But they also have stripped skin! Their stripes basically help camouflage them; the stripes help breakup the outlines of their bodies, making them hard to see.

10. The slowest fish is the seahorse

Horses are fast. Seahorses? Not so much. Seahorses are classified as the slowest fish. Out of the 30 species, the Dwarf Seahorse is the slowest. It moves at just 0.001 miles per hour. In other words, it takes them an hour to move just five feet.

11. Killer Whales aren't actually whales

Despite their name, killer whales (aka orcas) aren't actually whales. They are actually dolphins! In fact, they are the largest species of dolphin.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

9434
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

4176
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

3043
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

2750
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments