10 Unique Animals That Will Blow Your Mind
PHOTO: Yueke
Number One: Venezuelan Poodle Moth
Discovered only in 2009, the Venezuelan Poodle Moth looks quite furry. It comes from Venezuela, a tropical country. The fur likely serves other purposes, such as protection or sensory functions. As a recent discovery, not much is known about this insect yet, so while it may look cuddly, it’s probably not as cuddly as you might wish.
PHOTO: Yueke
The Malayan Colugo, also known as the flying lemur, does neither fly nor is it a lemur. Despite its name, the colugo has a large gliding membrane, similar to a flying squirrel, allowing it to glide long distances between trees. But these small animals, weighing between 2.5 to 4.5 pounds (1 to 2 kg), are awkward climbers and not very strong.
PHOTO: Yueke
This species is known as the roxellana, named after a snub-nosed courtesan of Suleiman the Magnificent, the 16th-century Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. A notable feature of these monkeys is the difference between males and females; males are twice as heavy and have different coloration. Females have darker or even black tones on their foreheads and upper parts, while infants have such a light coat that it may appear white in sunlight.
PHOTO: Yueke
The Mangalitsa pig, also known as a pig in sheep’s clothing, originates from Hungary, where it was discovered in the mid-19th century. With its curly fleece, it resembles a sheep, which is how it got its name. The fleece can be black or red, but these pigs are most commonly blond. This is the last pig breed with such an extraordinary winter coat. Tragically, by the 1990s, the breed was nearly extinct, with fewer than 200 pigs remaining in Hungary due to their extraordinarily tasty lard.
PHOTO: Yueke
If you see an animal that looks like it's trying to catch an alien radio signal, it’s likely a Markhor goat. They can grow up to 6 feet (180 cm) from head to tail, and their horns can reach up to 5.2 feet (1.6 meters) long—though this is only true for males, who use their horns during mating season. Female horns are much shorter, growing up to 10 inches (25 cm). Markhor goats are strict herbivores, feeding on leaves, grass, fruit, and flowers.
PHOTO: Yueke
These big, plush-like cows are not a new breed. They belong to known breeds, but they are groomed extensively to achieve their fluffy appearance. Special caretakers wash, dry, and use products to style the animals, which requires daily maintenance and months of regular grooming. This effort is primarily for shows, and it typically takes about two hours to prepare them before a performance. Hairsprays are used to fix their fuzz, and natural oils make their fur shine.
PHOTO: Yueke
If you’ve ever wondered if this animal is a cross between a kangaroo and a hare, think again. The Patagonian Mara is the fourth largest rodent on the planet. Females often place their offspring in creches for safety, and males help guard the young. They grunt when threatened and squeal like guinea pigs. These animals can leap up to 6 feet (182 cm) in the air when startled. They can be quite flighty, so be careful if you encounter them.
PHOTO: Yueke
The Emperor Tamarin is named for its resemblance to German Emperor Wilhelm II, particularly its fabulous mustache. These small primates are about 10 inches (26 cm) long, with tails that can reach up to 16 inches (40 cm). They live in groups of 4 to 20 and often give birth to twins. Despite being primarily vegetarian, eating flowers, nectar, and fruit, tamarins also consume frogs, snails, and small birds.
PHOTO: Yueke
These charismatic birds are sure to catch your eye if you visit the Galapagos Islands. While they may look a bit clumsy on land, they are excellent fliers and swimmers. Their complex mating ritual involves a dance with high-stepping, foot-stamping, and sky-pointing, accompanied by high-pitched whistling. The blue color of their feet, which comes from their fish diet, indicates their healthy immune system.
PHOTO: Yueke
If you’re torn between wanting a dog or a raccoon as a pet, consider the raccoon dog. Despite having raccoon-like markings, they are more closely related to domesticated dogs, wolves, and foxes. Raccoon dogs are monogamous, meaning they mate for life and work together to raise their young. The male brings food, including flowers, to the pregnant female. They are unique among mammals in the dog family for going into short periods of hibernation and often bed down in pairs. Tips: Their voices are incredibly cute!
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