pronounced known hunting leopard big cat occurs mainly eastern southern africa parts iran extant member genus described christian daniel von characterised slender body deep chest spotted coat small rounded head black tear like streaks face long thin legs long spotted tail lightly built slender form sharp contrast robust build big cats reaches nearly shoulder weighs taller leopard notably smaller lion basically yellowish tan white coat uniformly covered nearly solid black spots active mainly day hunting major activity adult males despite forming groups called females territorial solitary live offspring home ranges mainly prey stalk prey metres charge kill chase biting throat death body specialised speed fastest land animal speed hunting averages mph sprint chase interspersed short bursts speed animal clock mph induced breeding year gestation nearly months long resulting litter typically cubs number vary occurs months siblings tend stay time cubs face higher mortality mammals especially region inhabit variety habitats dry forests forests classified vulnerable iucn suffered substantial decline historic range rampant hunting 20th century african countries taken steps improve standards conservation thanks prowess hunting kill game hunts past animal widely depicted art literature advertising animation etymology vernacular pronounced derived hindi word turn comes sanskrit word meaning bright recorded use word alternative hunting leopard scientific generic originated combination greek words means means rough translation word non moving claws reference limited capability drawn inside claws relative cats specific means latin referring dorsal crest animal taxonomy extant species genus classified subfamily family family includes large cats lion tiger leopard species described german naturalist christian daniel von publication die der mit closest relatives species form lineage sister group lineage clade smaller old world cats includes genera african cat molecular evidence indicates species lineage evolved north_america million years ago possibly common ancestor possibly diverged ancestor million years ago diverged million years ago study concluded experienced genetic history years ago second years ago greatly lowering genetic associated asia africa current african population founded years ago prey species end pleistocene fossils found lower beds gorge site northern date pleistocene extinct species older oldest known late fossils million years old species include notably larger modern mid pleistocene period range stretched europe china spanned eastern southern africa variety larger believed existed europe fell extinction half million years ago extinct north american cats resembling historically assigned phylogenetic analysis placed species genus exhibited high degree similarity dna analysis showed early late pleistocene found north_america true fact close relatives subspecies recognised subspecies called iranian indian occurred southwestern asia india according international union conservation nature natural resources iucn confined iran surviving subspecies indigenous asia classified critically endangered study estimated total population later study gave total population iran majority individuals likely juveniles population declined sharply mid-1970s captive individuals known northwest african called found northwestern africa iucn confirms presence countries algeria small populations known exist national parks algeria study estimated population individuals national park reported mountains valley study reported population survives national park national park status obscure individuals confined southeastern region total world population estimated mature individuals listed critically endangered south african called occurs southern african countries south_africa diverged nearly million years ago population roughly estimated maximum adult individuals listed iucn called central northeast african found central northeastern regions continent horn africa subspecies considered identical south african genetic analysis demonstrated significant differences called east african found kenya total population estimated adults independent significant populations occur number number remarkable feature unusually low genetic comparison consequently individuals considerable genetic similarity illustrated skin evidence reproductive surveys prolonged period following genetic ice age believed reason consequences genetic include low sperm count deformed difficulty captive breeding disease king king variety rare cream coloured fur marked large spots dark wide stripes extending neck tail major cooper wrote animal shot near modern day describing animal noted remarkable similarity body individual covered fur thick snow leopard spots merged form stripes suggested cross leopard similar animals discovered established similar having non retractable claws characteristic feature english zoologist described new species latin king translated king reverted english hunter naturalist considered colour spotted king reported times wild individual photographed spotted sisters gave birth wildlife centre south_africa litter contained king sister wild male region king recorded king later born centre known exist northern cause alternative coat pattern found gene gene responsible striped versus classic seen cats genetically king simply variety common separate species case similar black reason result mating gene quarter offspring expected king characteristics big cat distinctive features slender body deep chest spotted small rounded head black tear like streaks face long thin legs long spotted tail lightly built slender form sharp contrast robust build big cats head body length ranges centimetres reaches centimetres shoulder weighs kilograms clearly taller leopard stands nearly centimetres shoulder weight range overlaps extensively leopard weighs kilograms hand significantly shorter lion average height nearly centimetres lighter lion females weigh kilograms heavier males weigh kilograms based measurements smallest reported northeastern africa iran sexually species males generally larger females head small streamlined adding agility narrow faces small short rounded ears marked black patches edges base ears high set eyes round pupils shorter fewer number fine pronounced tear streaks unique streaks originate corner eyes run nose mouth role obscure serving shield eyes sun helpful feature hunts mainly day purpose define facial expressions basically yellowish tan white coat uniformly covered nearly solid black spots upper parts stark contrast completely white spot measures nearly centimetres unique pattern spots coat serves distinct identity individual fur short coarse fur covers chest ventral colour identified including forms black observed kenya english zoologist philip described partially specimens south_africa photographed kenya juveniles typically dark long loose blue grey hair short centimetres long neck shoulders remains cape adults exceptionally long muscular tail measures centimetres ends white thirds tail covered spots final marked dark rings stripes arrangement terminal stripes tail differs individuals stripe patterns siblings similar fact tail individual typically resemble siblings greater extent resembles mother individual confused leopard distinguished small round spots contrast leopard plain coat addition leopard lacks tear streaks possesses tear streaks spotted coat pattern form similar significantly smaller shorter tail spots fuse form stripes anatomy morphology differs notably big cats face jaw unusually shortened crest poorly developed possibly reduce weight enhance speed fact skull resembles smaller cats point similarity small cats long flexible spine contrast stiff short large study morphology stated development middle bone relatively younger age major reason peculiar morphology appears evolution morphology behaviour example relatively long snout long legs deep chest tough foot pads blunt semi retractable claws hunting behaviour resembles study observed claws features intermediate wolf lineage skull morphology similar short wide different total teeth dental formula deciduous sharp narrow cheek teeth help tearing flesh small flat teeth bite throat prey males slightly bigger heads wider longer females muscles skull jaw short allow open mouth cats animals tough foot pads convenient run firm ground hind legs longer relatively longer lower leg radius increase length jump flexible column adds length high concentration nerve cells arranged band centre eyes arrangement called visual streak significantly vision visual streak concentrated efficient nasal passages short large helps accommodate large nostrils unable presence sharp edged vocal fold narrower slightly curved claws lack protective weakly retractable semi retractable major point difference big cats fully retractable claws similarity additionally claws shorter cats absence protection makes claws blunt large strongly curved remarkably sharp ecology behaviour active mainly day tigers lions nocturnal active mainly night allows better observation monitoring animal hunting major activity day peaks observed dawn dusk indicating tendencies groups rest grassy dusk males juveniles night alert animal individuals inspect vicinity observation points elevations resting turns keeping social organisation apart lion cat female tend remain solitary tim university california davis identified social classes longevity pregnant nursing females males joined groups typically solitary non females cubs adolescent siblings males form groups loose association individuals opposite sex observed breeding season social groups typically away adult males typically despite group life form groups collectively defend territories cases coalition comprise brothers born litter stayed male litter lone males form small group lone male join existing group males establish territories ensure maximum access females solitary males territorial males alternate ensures encounters greater number females coalition larger membership demands greater resources solitary males groups coalition greater chance encountering acquiring females mating females territorial live offspring juveniles form mixed sex groups young females stay mother significant interaction males eventually mature try acquire territories home ranges territories males establish territories locations ensure maximum access females males exhibit marking behaviour territories trees common tracks junctions trees marked sizes location specific example territories range km2 private game reserve size km2 territorial solitary males establish considerably larger territories large km2 km2 central study social organisation males showed depends size age males membership coalition concluded solitary grouped males nearly equal chance coming females males notably better chances survival solitary counterparts solitary males hold territories joined far successful average period territories held months seven half months pairs months males exhibit pronounced marking behaviour territories trees common tracks junctions marked males marking territory stand metre away tree rock surface tail raised pointing horizontally backward upward territorial clashes place solitary males fights rarely major reason fights acquire dominance breeding season involve unlike male female establish territories instead live areas known home ranges home ranges overlap hardly interaction females females regular visitors male territories size home range depends mainly availability prey greater density prey animals area smaller home range female areas nomadic prey animals desert home ranges cover hundreds square kilometres contrast home ranges merely square kilometres large prey national park available communication prominently vocal instead wide variety identified terms lack detailed acoustic description makes difficult assess reliably term denotes sound robert university sweden colleagues published detailed report compared observed content greet known individuals characteristic realised identified include accompanied annoyance faced danger study showed consist numerous short combined duration seconds escalated version combined typically displayed danger increases study found long seconds term reference combination followed feature conspicuous cats addition hit ground book biologist enlisted addition aforementioned sounds similar domestic cat larger predator prey excited instance gathered kill social meetings courtship attempting find mother searching cubs sounds like dog bird heard kilometres away study estimated total duration seconds purpose sound similar resemble zoologist considered similar soft lion loud shorter range study showed comprise separate seconds mother apart mothers use sounds interact cubs repeated gather cubs guide journey low pitched alarm warn cubs stand presence danger sound produced cubs kill pitch rises intensity quarrel ends harsh note methods scent plays significant role communication investigate marked places territories common landmarks long time carefully place male scent leaving observing individuals repeat ritual females marking behaviour prominently males females maximum marking attract males far social meetings marked mutual oral areas face physical contact observed tear streaks means visual communication tear streaks combined black lips contrasting white fur face striking appearance form clear expressions viewed close range ears face obscure distance expressions hand tail conspicuous probably mothers direct juveniles follow display behaviour engage displays fights hunting self defence prior sprint hold head aggression face approach target stiff aggressive expression maintained run defend prey hold body low ground produce mouth wide open eyes staring ahead ears folded backward accompanied severe cases ground hit fights characterised biting tearing fur attempts sides hunting competitors prefers medium sized prey body mass ranging grant common targets prey animals include bat fox prey frequently african buffalo study showed major proportion diet consists livestock local species desert hare wild sheep hunted generally groups attempt kill large animals mothers young cubs attempt secure large prey records killing human beings diet depends area lives example east african plains preferred prey somewhat smaller contrast preferred prey significantly larger males weigh opt young adolescent targets diet despite small portion prey population hunt primarily day geographical variations exist instance hunt sunset escape high temperatures day hunt lions inactive study national park kenya showed success hunt depends species age sex habitat prey size hunting herd efficiency hunting individual hunt vision scent prey located observation points animals edges herd preferred stalk prey try approach closely possible cover prey slowly stalking occasionally chase usually lasts minute fails kill quickly average hunting success rate kill prey chase use strong knock prey balance kill large sized prey bites prey throat death bite neck snout kill smaller prey prey taken shaded place highly exhausted chase rests kill pants heavily nearly minutes groups kill peacefully minor observed involved hunting immediately start eating consume large quantities food study national park consumed kilograms hours stayed close remains hours head sharp teeth effectively tear flesh typically begin progress abdomen spine rib bones ends limbs generally torn apart eating especially mothers young cubs highly need remain large steal prey harm cubs potential prey surrender kill lions spotted brown wild dogs lose kills predators percentage found high study rarely observed feed kills spotted capturing consuming heavy short time speed acceleration adaptations body specialised speed fastest land animal describes version similar morphology ability reach tremendous speeds shorter time mammals thin light body makes suited short explosive bursts speed rapid acceleration ability execute extreme changes direction moving speed adaptations account ability catch fast moving prey large nasal passages ensure fast flow sufficient air enlarged heart lungs allow blood oxygen short time allows rapidly regain stamina chase typical chase respiratory rate increases minute running addition having good traction semi retractable claws use tail rudder like means steering enables sharp turns necessary change direction escape chase protracted claws increase grip ground foot pads sprint convenient tough ground tight binding restrict rotation lower leg animal sprint reduces climbing efficiency like motion increases stride length assists shock absorption extension column add centimetres length stride half time sprint animal limbs air contributes stride length course sprint heat production exceeds normal retains heat generated body chase considerably larger case domestic dog long distance chases develop dangerous temperatures nearly run tremendous speeds mph rarely run speeds chases metres recorded values general speed hunting averages mph chase interspersed short bursts speed vary mph reliable measurement typical speed short chase mph averaged value maximum speed higher value maximum speed disputed speeds attained slightly greater achieved mph mph greater probability succeeding chase exceptional acceleration attain speed mph seconds stride jump averages metres similarly ability rapidly change direction pivotal ensuring hunting success typically walk kilometres hour mph speed acceleration values hunting different non hunting engaged chase likely twisting turning running vegetation year old cincinnati zoo named sarah world record running seconds set run ran recorded maximum speed kilometres hour mph study wild females males hunting reported maximum speed mph average mph speed increased mph single stride average chase maximum ranges reproduction breed year induced females sexually mature months age females heat cycle days vary days lasting days female birth months loss litter mothers mate marking males pronounced female vicinity comes males fight secure access female males coalition aggression approaching female male eventually wins dominance mating observed mainly night begins male approaching female lies ground courtship behaviour observed male immediately hold female takes place pair ignore ways meet times days females mate males mean number sperm single nearly million gestation nearly months long number cubs born vary common number birth takes place sheltered place thick vegetation weighs nearly birth eyes shut birth open days newborn cubs crawl spit start walking weeks shoulders covered long bluish grey hair underlying fur called mantle gives type appearance fur shed grows older study noted gives appearance honey act camouflage animals cubs highly vulnerable weeks life mothers cubs hidden dense vegetation month cubs start following mothers weeks mother frequently shifts cubs new locations study play behaviour cubs showed cubs tend play nursing mothers play involves plenty agility attacks seldom lethal playing cubs stay near mothers study revealed cubs showed improvement catching grew ability hide develop remarkably suggested play helps develop certain aspects predator defence occurs months age mother brings kills cubs cubs mother clean meal cubs young months try capture small prey like juvenile wait long months age successful kill offspring stay mother months feeding kills juveniles form mixed sex young females stay mother hardly interaction mother daughters females mixed sex herd gradually near sexual maturity average age independence observed litters months young females litters age years subsequent litters months later lifespan wild years females reproductive cycle typically ends years age males generally live long years mortality high mortality rates recorded study nearly litters died weeks birth nearly alive weeks lions emerged major predator juveniles accounting nearly deaths study concluded survival rate cubs till mere attributed open terrain region allow conceal cubs face higher mortality large mammals suggested significant lack genetic diversity cause poor quality production sperm birth defects cramped teeth tails bent limbs low fertility rates appear flourished thousands years low levels genetic expert marker points high level genetic mean infectious disease surfaced population lack level immunity population wildlife oregon united_states died epidemic distribution habitat inhabits variety habitats africa observed dry forests forests distribution prey influence habitat preferences study national park female found spend significant time woodlands occurred suggested forested area unsuitable hunting females preferred woodlands encounter male hand dense habitats spent time open explanation given prefer larger prey prefer regions occur elevations high open area cover bushes probably ideal needs stalk pursue prey distance exploiting speed risk encountering larger complete lack cover cause prey loss mortality prehistoric times distributed asia africa europe north_america gradually vanished europe north_america nearly years ago common africa avoided tropical forests afghanistan iran iraq palestine syria river valleys sheltered large numbers today majority earlier range iucn estimates total range earlier times approximately km2 range reduced km2 substantial decline africa occurs mainly eastern southern africa range continent declined mere historic range eastern africa reduced original range presently distributed area km2 horn africa occurs kenya south range reduced southern continent occurs area km2 original range longer occur significant populations thrive south western south western northern south_africa southern isolated populations occur population density region low individuals km2 occur low numbers northern western africa past ranged vast stretches asia mediterranean arabian peninsula west indian east far north seas disappeared majority historic range save iran possibly areas afghanistan indian status threats classified vulnerable iucn listed appendix convention conservation migratory species wild animals appendix cites convention international trade endangered species cites standing committee recognised species priority strategies northeastern africa counter wildlife trafficking iucn gives total number surviving individuals nearly regional estimates given eastern africa southern africa western central northern africa southern half continent home largest number sub populations identified consist individuals small population individuals reported iran populations feared declining especially adults threatened habitat loss agricultural industrial expansion animal apparently requires large area live indicated low population appears capable leopard humans human interference activities hunting feeding range consisting unprotected land targeted farmers attempt protect livestock typically prefer livestock prey game hunters try harm valuable game threat especially areas roads constructed near natural habitat protected areas cases involving reported threat posed infectious diseases minor given low population minimal chance infection conservation measures iucn recommended operation countries range conflict human beings study showed significantly positive impact conservation requirement space habitat compromised cases establishment private reserves ensuring absence predators successful conservation measure additionally financial benefits awareness generated aid cause time animals handled disturbed particularly sensitive human interference africa range wide conservation program african wild dogs sarah society london started primary aim ensuring better conservation measures wild dog species low population joint initiative wildlife conservation society iucn cat specialist group program major goals review conservation policies adopted south african countries study action illegal hunting trade publication emphasised role land management improvement range conservation lack populations face severe kenya south_africa south formulated action plans conservation years workshops held given asia 20th century populations india saw drastic fall physical evidence india individuals shot eastern man noted holding record shooting tigers early 2000s scientists centre cellular molecular biology proposed plan clone obtained iran india asked iran transport live pair india possible allow collect sperm pair iran iran rejected proposals september minister environment forests assigned wildlife trust india wildlife institute india task examining potential nation report submitted showed wildlife sanctuary wildlife sanctuary landscape desert national park high potential support reintroduced populations areas found areas wildlife sanctuary largest available area square kilometres rich prey availability national park comprising area square kilometres having supported populations independence india longer suitable low prey density risks iranian government collaborated conservation fund iucn united_nations development programme wildlife conservation society conservation project protect natural habitat prey ensure development projects survival highlight plight iran declared august national day interaction human beings general shows hostility human beings probably nature reason easily antiquity temple complex tell expedition land punt reign things animals called egypt types depicted sculptures referred north referred south new kingdom 16th 11th centuries common pet animals royalty decorated animals beautiful use dogs bring concealed prey open set kill seal dating nearly featuring animal resembling speculation hunting thomas college new_jersey argues depicted animal given largely dog like features background gives impression area typically inhabit mainly kinds theories forth explain subsequent expansion asia europe rest africa historians accept origin hold animal gradually spread central northern africa reached india hand historians frederick accept egyptian origin state gradually spread central asia iran india century roman author wrote india smaller lions tracking hunting account reliable roman greek literature generally clear references different types cats hunting prevalent seventh century middle_east accompany nobility hunts special seats continued associated royalty western asia till late 19th century phase weeks kept accustomed human beings tempted food trained mount horses finally hunting instincts aroused animals process long year complete eastern asia records confusing regional names leopard earliest depiction eastern asia dates dynasty 7th 10th centuries paintings depict mounted horses chinese emperors use gifts 13th 14th centuries rulers bought numerous tigers western parts empire muslim merchants return gold silver cash silk according subsequent dynasty 14th 17th centuries continued practice gradually entered 14th century popular middle_east ruler great said kept son wrote memoirs gave birth cubs rulers trained similar way west hunt game especially rampant hunting severely affected populations wild animals captivity mortality captivity generally high reasons include birth defects neglect cubs mothers infectious diseases study comparing health captive wild noted despite having similar genetic wild far captive counterparts study identified possible stress factors restricted habitat interaction human beings recommended private areas captive study diseases suffered captive period north american showed disease disease liver affected deceased caused deaths occurred living females chronic detected population disease emerged significant disease affecting disease affected infectious caused deaths pneumonia major cause juvenile deaths study concluded excess result disease poor breeders captivity wild individuals far successful study females found success rate breeding contrast north american captive bred successfully studies shown poses difficulties faced case cats popular culture widely portrayed variety artistic works oil painting 16th century italian painter greek god depicted drawn painting previously considered english painter george commemorated george iii english governor madras sir george painting indian painting depicts indian servants supposed prey painting 19th century belgian painter representation myth portrays creature woman head body leopard variety literature mentions author joy born free fame wrote spotted biography pet entertainment novel patrick brian set british period india illustrates practice royalty keeping training hunt book tells true story family raising orphaned named kenya film loosely based book featured marketing animation lay introduced chester anthropomorphic mascot release apple inc mac mac code named subsequent releases named big cats animated series character named anthropomorphic voiced comic book wonder woman chief adversary barbara ann alias


mountain mountain found high altitude woodland small central species identified subspecies described english naturalist richard males typically tall females stand shoulder males weigh females weigh coat grey brown marked poorly defined white strips extending underside row white spots white markings present face throat legs males short dark erect crest high running middle males possess horns mountain shy elusive human beings individuals short intervals time form small males territorial primarily mountain switch grazing occasionally females start mating years age males sexually mature time gestation lasts months single born lifespan mountain years typical habitat mountain composed woodlands altitude human settlement large livestock population forced animal occupy heath forests altitude mountain endemic highlands east rift valley half total population mountain occurs km2 area northern mountains national park mountain classified endangered category international union conservation nature natural resources iucn influence culture notable mountain featured cents coins taxonomy mountain described english naturalist richard scientific species classified genus family mountain brought england major species named major returned hunting trip presented specimen shot british ward later notified discovery large discovered africa spiral horns white markings face flanks established species believed species related closely species placed genus fact mountain similarity led merger genus university carried mitochondrial analysis species data compared results showed mountain sister taxon mitochondrial tree phylogenetic relationships obtained mitochondrial data nuclear tree mountain plus equal branches mountain forms clade species greater clade split clade formed mountain approximately million years ago description mountain large sexually head body length approximately males females males typically tall females stand shoulder males weigh females weigh tail reaches heel long sensitive ears large lined white hair coat grey brown marked poorly defined white strips extending underside row white spots white markings present face throat legs white eyes white patch throat conspicuous markings chest white lower legs pale inside clear white spots present coat brown male juveniles grows darker age eventually old males short dark erect crest high running middle neck tail coat texture vary smooth rough probably season females resemble red deer hind size proportions female juveniles bright old females grey young males females pairs males possess horns maximum recorded length horns appear cream coloured months start growing spiral pattern reaching growth years horns males reported half turns final form vary different males horns form defined structure similar resembling horns final spiral incomplete growth rings visible horn annual patterns difficult horns wear age cream colour tips mountain resembles greater array white spots flanks possess spiral horns greater told apart mountain greater height paler colour horns greater tips farther apart species similar mountain easily distinguished smaller size fringe long hair throat neck horns similar slender narrower ecology behaviour mountain shy elusive human beings spend night edges forests feeding time avoid human disturbance choose navigate night come morning late afternoon generally seek cover woodlands heather hot cold feeding occur midday interspersed resting intervals tend come overcast dry season november march given dilapidated state mountain travel wooden areas rich heath individuals short intervals time form small groups containing individuals reported zone composed family units moving periodically size longevity large depends season habitat type time day female juvenile groups adult females accompanied previous year current year groups led adult males depending presence bachelor formed non dominant adult young males consisting individuals mixed sex groups formed old tend lead solitary life occasionally visit female looking females dominance observed sexes males territorial home ranges covering km2 wet season females juveniles hand occupy smaller ranges km2 wet season dry season ranges larger wet season ones sexes males wrestle horns usually silent mountain noticing potential threat utter low bark threat leopard main predator mountain diet primarily mountain switch grazing occasionally feeds low height herbs bushes shrubs general foliage eat aquatic plants grasses specially preferred early wet season pick fallen leaves use horns reach higher branches favoured species include sage brush leaves prefer lower foliage reproduction females start mating years age males sexually mature time sexual larger home ranges males female biased population indicate species mountain breed year peak occurs december prior breeding season adult males tend associated mixed sex continuously follow receptive females test males seek single female equally ranked hierarchy engage displays displays males slowly crest erect tail raised likely engage aggressive fights happen brief period follows testing gestation lasts months single born mountains national park occur year peak september november remain cover weeks birth remain close mothers nearly years young females pregnant young males mature years challenged males driven lifespan mountain years habitat distribution typical habitat mountain composed woodlands altitude vegetation generally includes lower levels upper reaches visit edges covered species continuous blocks woodland habitat reduced series pockets interspersed large cultivated lands human settlement large livestock population forced animal occupy heath forests altitude rich species forced containing species altitude eastern borders range mountain usually observed occupy areas lower altitudes mountain endemic highlands east rift valley range mount east northern zone south half total population mountain occurs km2 area northern mountains national park smaller populations occur mountains zone western study identified area km2 southern mountains sustainable habitat mountain threats conservation major threats survival mountain include illegal hunting habitat destruction livestock predation dogs expansion cultivation construction high altitudes animal extensively hunted horns meat meat utilised local medicine making traditional milk bottles impact trophy hunting programs obscure current trophy hunting deemed long term mountain classified endangered category international union conservation nature natural resources iucn listed washington convention cites legal protection fully ensured species implementation effective widespread unrest mountain killed population mountains national park fell mountains national park small mountain sanctuary established established second protected area sanctuary severely affected cultivation erosion populations soon disappeared 1960s population estimated declined sharply individuals 1980s population decreasing mountain feared extinct eastern southern extremes range probably survive border south apart mountain occur rest mountains national park occur areas vicinity national park relationship humans influence mountain culture ignored south african word prominent businesses motors use names mountain regularly appear walls commercial products tourist mountain featured cents coin mountain hunted humans instance people hunt animals general day close easter able bodied men set horses hunt


red red species red monkey endemic main island archipelago coast known red sir john british resident brought attention science classified endangered species mid-1990s adopted flagship species conservation population trend decreasing species located archipelago attempting work local government proper effective strategy protect population habitat species reclassified twice previously genus recently genus evolutionary history taxonomy red population represents population red believed isolated island sea levels rose end pleistocene furthermore suggested mitochondrial analysis phylogenetic groups red genetically isolated examining morphology shown diverged mainland species experienced acceleration morphological evolution size suggested result island environmental pressures competition habitat predation resource availability evidence population species smaller contrast mainland monkey consistent foster rule known island rule original larger animal smaller time limited resources males tend traits include shorter face large enlarged certain long ago evolutionary change occurred molecular analyses indicated closely related red compared red species analysis placed divergence sister species years ago actually allows older evolutionary age compared previous assumption species glacial period species reclassified twice previously genus recently genus alternative common red sir john british resident brought attention science physical description old world monkey coat ranges dark red black black stripe shoulders arms pale underside black face crowned long white hair features distinguishing pink mark lips nose red long tail balancing sexual generally decreased species meaning females little difference body size colour male counterparts females usually males groups species notably small body shape males potentially reaching females adults highly differentiated facial features help distinguish group word comes greek meaning cut short named significant reduction size complete lack thumb comparison long align form strong hook allowing easily grasp branches climb locals island called red means poison monkey strong smell unlike caused people hold negative views monkey evil influence trees feed ultimately killing trees habitat red found forests archipelago displays wide habit tolerance mainly species prefers drier areas wet ones habitats include coastal coastal found agricultural areas swamps provides food year round found agricultural areas monkey humans comes closer ground individuals remain currently found islands live outside protected zones largest significant area protection habitat monkey national park provides km2 land reserve located main island populations greatly studied regards ecology behavior groups found farmland close proximity park adjacent park higher red reported living cohesive groups compared inside park reserve living permanently outside zone protected park reserve increase groups behavior groups consist adult males adult females typically yielding ratio males females young varying ages incorporated group number group range individuals species social animal observed playing rest periods meals unlike females group males actually maintain close bonds acting defense group feeding feeding group activity begins feed morning active cooler parts day loud calls males indicate group ready tree feed monkey mainly average half leaves consumed young leaves eat leaf shoots seeds flowers fruit found eating bark dead wood soil species eat fruits stomach chambers specific breaking plant materials digest contained mature fruits monkey feeds young leaves limited instances believed aid possibly compounds found young leaves indian tree tree habit consuming thought learned behavior presumably passed mother offspring noted populations islands carry behavior consume perennial exotic foliage populations use source food natural monkey consume populations observed drink water directly tree holes water leaves innovative behavior shows adaptation monkey novel ecological environmental circumstances dry season staple foods indian tree previously mentioned drops leaves cause monkey park boundaries order extend feeding range puts endangered risk reproduction males usually reach sexual maturity years old females reach years old females approaching easily identified swelling bright red coloration area signals males given female ready mating prior mating males use fingers probe female birth canal immediately followed area detected method helping male conclude female ready breed gestation months female new born years parental care intense role shared multiple females group observed offspring born september december noted occasion new male joins given group research suggested ability expansion consuming partly allows explains higher birth rates resource availability birth rates living higher living coral forests higher rates october december island january february located eastern main island infant mortality significantly high half born reaching months age birth rates actually decreased comparison mainland intervals longer research suggested consequence disturbed habitats mainland affected communication red species smaller compared members subfamily male alto soprano contrast low bass male black white species red non territorial nature typically loud territorial threat calls red distress warning calls bark calls monkey heard expresses dominance group checking sexual status females heard people near forest signal attention getting derived progression changes surrounding environment changes weather animal movement proximity group animals different calls predator land aerial predator lack larger birds prey calls witnessed young hand smaller size vulnerability times calls shadows red extremely social specific certain time feels vulnerable threatened young typically ones sounds like loud scream adults occasionally likely deemed necessary variation conservation number factors contributed monkey endangered status increase resulted significant reduction resources habitat second hunted meat pet markets counteract decline population attempts protect species specimens moved forest island try establish monkey population found years island group red found sightings interviews locals population estimated individuals researchers concluded group certainly survived increase number possibly adverse relations humans locals hold monkey idea brings bad luck farmers explain reason significantly grown population size islands red subject extensive habitat destruction particularly coral forests reported poisoning disappearance animals attempts conservation species project world wildlife fund specifically bay located west island second wildlife conservation society funded conservation projects intended cases apparent action directly supportive monkey mid-1990s red adopted flagship species conservation african convention played role conservation animal class according document african convention conservation nature natural resources class described species class shall totally protected entire territory contracting states hunting killing capture collection specimens shall permitted authorization case highest competent authority required national interest scientific purposes suggested important way promote conservation monkey simply spread awareness harmful animal actually good region economy draws tourism case island furthermore necessary establish designate protected zones


tiger tiger largest cat species pattern dark vertical stripes reddish orange fur lighter underside largest tigers reached total body length curves weighed wild species classified genus lion leopard jaguar snow leopard tigers apex predators primarily deer territorial generally solitary social animals requiring large areas habitat support prey requirements coupled fact indigenous densely populated places earth caused significant conflicts humans tigers ranged widely asia turkey west eastern coast russia past years lost historic range southwest central asia islands java large areas southeast eastern asia today range open tropical swamps remaining tiger subspecies classified endangered iucn global population wild estimated number individuals start 20th century remaining populations occurring small pockets isolated exist indian global census estimated population wild tigers approximately individuals major reasons population decline include habitat destruction habitat extent area occupied tigers estimated km2 decline area estimated mid-1990s wildlife conservation group wwf declared world count wild tigers risen time century tigers popular world charismatic featured prominently ancient mythology folklore continue depicted modern films literature appear flags coats arms sporting teams tiger national animal bangladesh india malaysia south_korea taxonomy etymology described tiger work gave scientific british species genus scientific word probably oriental origin ancient greek word latin word old french word likely meaning yellowish animal meaning whitish yellow greek beast folk etymology specific epithet common tiger come middle english old english word animal derive old french derivative latin word greek word original source persian meaning pointed sharp meaning arrow referring speed tiger launches prey evolution tiger closest living relatives previously thought lion leopard jaguar classified genus genetic analysis indicates tiger snow leopard diverged species million years ago species closely related lion leopard jaguar oldest remains extinct tiger relative called tiger found province northwestern china species considered sister taxon extant tiger lived million years ago beginning pleistocene smaller modern tiger size jaguar probably coat pattern despite considered primitive tiger possibly similar modern cousin lived northwestern china tiger lineage originated tigers grew size possibly response prey species like deer occurred southeast_asia early pleistocene earliest fossils true tigers java million years old distinct fossils known early middle pleistocene deposits china sumatra subspecies called tiger lived million years ago known fossils found java tigers reached india northern asia late pleistocene reaching eastern american continent japan evidenced fossil distinct lion indicate tigers present alaska years fossils found japan indicate local tigers like surviving island subspecies smaller mainland forms example tigers lived borneo island philippines tiger sequence published cat found similar repeat composition subspecies recognised tiger subspecies extinct prehistoric times remaining subspecies survived mid-20th century considered extinct historical range bangladesh siberia iran afghanistan india china southeast_asia including indonesian islands severely diminished today modern subspecies analysis morphology ecology molecular biology tiger subspecies indicates traits common genetic diversity low authors analysis suggest group south china tiger subspecies continental tiger tiger subspecies tiger classification intended facilitate tiger conservation management breeding programmes future wild classification criticised maintain currently recognised subspecies distinguished genetically hybrids lions known breed tigers subspecies create hybrids called hybrids commonly bred discouraged emphasis conservation hybrids bred private china cross male lion lion passes growth promoting gene corresponding growth gene female tiger absent grow far larger parent share physical qualities parent species spots stripes sandy background male sterile female fertile males chance having half size pure lion typically feet length weigh pounds common cross male tiger male tiger pass growth promoting gene passes growth gene relatively small weighing smaller lions like physical traits parental species males sterile females fertile occasionally given birth lion description tigers muscular bodies powerful large heads long tails dense heavy varies shades orange brown white ventral areas distinctive vertical black stripes patterns unique individual function likely camouflage vegetation long grass strong vertical patterns light shade tiger striped cat species known spotted patterns common camouflage pattern tiger stripes found skin shaved distinctive coat pattern visible like heavy growth fur neck jaws long especially males pupils circular yellow small rounded ears prominent white spot surrounded black false called apparently play important role communication skull similar lion frontal region usually depressed flattened slightly longer region skull lion broader nasal openings variation species structure lower jaw reliable indicator species tiger fairly stout teeth somewhat curved longest living crown height oldest recorded captive tiger lived years wild specimen having natural predators theory live comparable age size tigers variable size big cats lions subspecies tallest shoulder considered largest living ranking extinct tiger biggest existed average adult male tiger northern india siberia average adult male lion males vary total length weigh skull length ranging females vary total length weigh skull length ranging sex tail represents total length body size different populations climate rule explained large male tigers reach total length curves weigh considerably larger weight reached smallest living subspecies tiger shoulder tigers variously stand tall current record weight wild tiger shot notably sexually species females consistently smaller males size difference males females greater larger tiger subspecies males weighing times females males wider pads females enabling gender told tracks colour variations known found subspecies produces white tiger colour variant recorded early 19th century found estimated natural genetically white parents carry pigment evident white tiger stripes blue eyes changes single acid protein white tigers frequently bred captivity comparatively small gene pool lead given white tigers greater likelihood born physical defects spine apparently healthy white tigers generally live long orange counterparts attempts cross white orange tigers remedy mixing subspecies process gene creates golden golden colour variation known golden tigers thicker usual light gold fur pale legs faint orange stripes golden tigers kept captivity invariably golden tigers carry white tiger gene tigers produce white offspring pseudo effect wide stripes partially obscure orange background seen true black tigers possible exception dead specimen examined wholly partially tigers exist assumed intermittent distinct species unconfirmed reports blue slate coloured variant tiger exhibit solid coat known genetic configuration result black stripes blue gray background distribution habitat past tigers found asia sea siberia indonesian islands java sumatra fossil remains indicate tigers present borneo philippines late pleistocene 20th century tigers extinct western asia restricted isolated pockets remaining parts range island 1940s sea 1970s java 1980s result habitat loss ongoing killing tigers tiger prey today fragmented partly degraded range extends india west china southeast_asia northern limit range close river southeastern siberia large island inhabit sumatra beginning 20th century tigers historical range decade estimated area known occupied tigers declined tigers occupy wide range habitat types usually require sufficient cover proximity water abundance prey compared lion tiger prefers vegetation camouflage suited single predator disadvantage compared multiple pride habitat requirement placement suitably den locations consist caves large hollow trees dense vegetation tigers particular live types forests including wet eastern forest delta deciduous forest forests western parts range inhabit inhabited additionally partially open grassland forests rocky habitats biology behaviour social activity adult tigers lead largely solitary lives establish maintain territories wider home ranges resident adults sex generally movements home ranges satisfy needs growing cubs individuals sharing area aware movements activities size home range mainly depends prey abundance case males access females territory km2 territories males larger covering km2 range male tends overlap females providing large field prospective mating partners unlike tigers strong swimmers deliberately ponds lakes rivers means keeping cool heat day big cats jaguar shares similar fondness water cross rivers swim day able carry prey capture water young female tigers establish territories close mother overlap female mother territory reduces time males migrate female counterparts set younger age mark area young male territory seeking area devoid male tigers living male territory older strong challenge resident male young males seeking establish comprise highest mortality rate year adult tigers identify territory male marks trees anal marking trails marking trees ground claws females use markings scent markings type allow individual pick information identity sex reproductive status females signal availability scent marking frequently increasing avoiding tigers territorial relationships individuals complex adult sex share kill related george observed male share kill females cubs unlike male lions male tigers allow females cubs feed kill male finished involved generally behave contrast competitive behaviour shown lion pride quotation stephen mills book tiger describing event witnessed national park dominant called killed male large found kill dawn month old cubs watched hours period family joined adult females adult male offspring previous litters unrelated tigers female unidentified clock fewer tigers round kill occasionally male tigers participate raising cubs usually extremely rare understood tigers photographed camera traps reserve photos male tiger pass followed female cubs span minutes male tiger raised defended orphaned female cubs mother died illness cubs remained care supplied food protected rival sister apparently trained male tigers generally males territories females females territory disputes usually solved displays intimidation outright aggression incidents observed subordinate tiger yielded defeat rolling showing belly posture dominance established male tolerate subordinate range long live close quarters aggressive disputes tend occur males female rarely result death males facial expressions include defense threat individual teeth ears pupils males females response characteristic markings associated males detecting markings like tigers particularly aggressive situations mating season making kill different true apparatus forced open mouth progressively closes shorter mouth open teeth exposed true heard away emitted times succession tense tigers sound similar subdued mouth partially completely closed heard away soft low frequency similar smaller cats heard friendly situations vocal communications include tigers studied wild variety techniques populations tigers estimated plaster casts method criticised inaccurate recent attempts camera trapping studies dna radio track tigers wild tiger spray found good better source dna hunting diet wild tigers feed large medium sized animals preferring native weighing typically little effect prey populations deer wild water buffalo domestic buffalo descending order preference tiger favoured prey tamil india preferred prey constitute main diet tigers parts india prey predators including dogs bears siberia main prey species wild species comprising nearly prey selected followed deer deer deer black bears brown bears fall prey tigers constitute diet tigers depending local conditions bear populations sumatra prey include deer wild tiger range prey included wild horses like predators tigers eat smaller prey ground based birds fish tigers generally prey fully grown adult asian elephants indian incidents reported vulnerable small taken tigers reported attacking killing elephants ridden humans tiger hunts 19th century close proximity humans tigers prey domestic livestock cattle horses old wounded tigers unable catch wild prey man pattern frequently india exception healthy tigers prey fishermen villagers search forest produce humans forming minor tiger diet exclusively tigers occasionally eat vegetation fruit slow match tree tigers thought mainly nocturnal predators areas humans typically absent observed remote controlled hidden cameras hunting daylight generally hunt ambush prey cats angle body size strength knock prey balance successful hunts usually require tiger simultaneously leap quarry knock grab throat teeth despite large size tigers reach speeds mph short bursts consequently tigers close prey break cover prey catches wind tiger presence tiger usually hunt chase prey battle head horizontal leaps reported leaps half distance typical hunts including stalking near potential prey ends successful kill hunting larger animals tigers prefer bite throat use powerful hold prey simultaneously wrestling ground tiger remains neck target dies method water weighing ton killed tigers weighing sixth kill healthy adults tigers select large species healthy adult prey type dangerous tackle long strong horns legs potentially fatal tiger extant land predator routinely takes prey large whilst hunting comprise prey india tigers reportedly male attract smaller prey tiger bites breaking spinal cord piercing vein common rarely observed tigers recorded kill prey powerful smash domestic cattle break backs bears 1980s tiger named national park observed frequently hunting prey deep lake water pattern behaviour previously witnessed years observations appeared unusually successful hunts ending kill killing prey tigers drag conceal cover usually pulling mouths site killing bite require great physical strength case killed adult tiger observed drag massive distance men simultaneously tried drag later unable adult tiger weeks eating gorge flesh time captivity adult tigers fed meat day interaction predators tigers usually prefer eat prey caught eating times pirate prey large predators typically avoid prey item dispute competitor encountered displays aggression common sufficient conflicts turn violent tigers kill competitors striped wolves bears occasion tigers prey competitors attacks smaller predators certainly predatory bears large packs win conflicts tigers cases kill considerably smaller leopard avoids competition tigers hunting different times day hunting different prey india national park prey selected preference prey weighing tigers average prey weight respective big cats india relatively abundant prey tigers seen successfully competitive exclusion dominance common african leopard lion lone golden expelled pack known form relationships tigers solitary known attach particular tiger trailing safe distance feed big cat kills reproduction mating occur year round common november april female receptive days mating frequent noisy time gestation range days average days litter usually cubs occasionally cubs weigh birth born blind helpless females rear birth site maternal den sheltered location cave rocky father generally takes unrelated wandering male tigers kill cubs female receptive birth litter months cubs previous litter lost mortality rate tiger cubs years predators attack tiger cubs mother tiger apart humans tigers common causes mortality starvation freezing accidents dominant emerges litters usually male active siblings takes lead play eventually leaving mother independent earlier cubs open eyes fourteen days old weeks cubs short ventures outside den mother travel territory older cubs months time start accompany mother territorial walks taught hunt cubs capable nearly adult size hunters months old cubs independent eighteen months age half years old fully separate mother females reach sexual maturity years males years conservation efforts tiger endangered species fur body parts destruction habitat simultaneously greatly reduced tiger populations wild start 20th century estimated tigers wild population outside captivity major reasons population decline include habitat destruction habitat demand tiger parts use traditional chinese medicine cited major threat tiger populations estimates suggest fewer mature breeding individuals containing mature breeding individuals global wild tiger population estimated world wide fund nature reported increase century exact number wild tigers unknown estimates outdated educated estimates based reliable scientific table shows estimates country according iucn range country governments wildlife conservation society corporation formed collaboration tigers forever field sites including world largest tiger reserve km2 valley reserves western india thailand russian far_east covering total km2 india home world largest population wild tigers original indian tiger habitat remains fragmented india project tiger started established tiger reserves reclaimed land human development forbidden project credited number wild tigers 1990s census showed numbers dropped tigers following report indian government pledged million initiative set measures combat promised funds relocate villagers order reduce human tiger interactions set new tiger reserves india reintroduced tigers tiger reserve claimed effectively countered national park census estimated population increase 1940s tiger brink extinction animals remaining wild russia result anti controls place soviet_union network protected zones instituted leading rise population problem 1990s economy russia collapsed major obstacle preserving species enormous territory individual tigers require km2 needed single female single male current conservation efforts led local governments concert international organisations world wide fund nature wildlife conservation society competitive exclusion wolves tigers russian convince hunters tolerate big cats tigers impact populations wolves effective controlling numbers thought animals russia exhibited little genetic diversity decade later tiger census estimated individuals having earlier rejected western led movement china changed stance 1980s party cites treaty banned trade tiger parts diminished use tiger bones traditional chinese medicine people trade tiger skins relatively important threat tigers clothing tiger skin worn singers participants horse racing festivals status symbols international conservation organizations launched successful environmental propaganda campaigns china tiger skin trade outrage india live 14th persuaded issue change attitude publicly burning indonesian tiger conservation strategy addressed potential crisis tigers faced sumatra tiger project initiated june way national park order ensure long term viability wild tigers accumulate data tiger life history characteristics vital management wild populations august teams evaluated sites potential tiger habitat province intact contain tigers framework community based conservation programme initiated document tiger human dimension park order enable conservation authorities resolve tiger human conflicts based comprehensive database anecdotes opinions indian billy attempted tiger national park captive bred soon release numerous people killed eaten subsequently shot government officials claimed disputed controversy broke discovery partly tiger organisation save china tigers attempted south china tigers breeding training programme south african reserve known valley reserve eventually wild china future project proposed tigers set reintroduced northern russia pleistocene park tigers sent iran captive breeding project set reintroduced peninsula replace extinct tigers relation humans tiger prey tiger big game animals asia tiger hunting took place large scale early 19th 20th centuries recognised admired sport british colonial india aristocratic class states pre independence india single english hunter claim kill tigers hunting career tiger hunting hunters foot sat goat buffalo tied bait elephant man eating tigers wild tigers prior contact humans actively avoid interactions humans tigers cause human deaths direct attack wild attacks occasionally provoked tigers injured hunted attacks provoked accidentally human surprises tiger inadvertently comes mother young case rural india tiger seeing foot riding bicycle occasionally tigers come view people prey attacks common areas population growth logging farming pressure tiger habitats reduced wild prey man eating tigers old missing teeth unable capture preferred prey example tiger found india broken responsible estimated human deaths attacks known single wild animal time shot jim according tiger attacks humans normally daytime people working outdoors keeping watch early writings tend describe man eating tigers ambush tactics man particular problem recent decades india bangladesh especially swamps healthy tigers hunted humans rapid habitat loss attributed climate change tiger attacks increased area human deaths tigers years prior period attacks year high years 1960s unusually years humans killed tigers vice versa india production honey dropped people gathered materials tigers attack rear masks human faces worn head theory tigers usually attack seen prey decreased number attacks temporarily means prevent attacks providing prey electrified human worked people killed seriously injured captive tigers united_states cases predatory tiger attacks human territorial nature case cubs killed people entering territory consuming commercial hunting traditional medicine historically tigers hunted large scale famous striped skins collected trade tiger skins peaked 1960s international conservation efforts took effect tiger skin english market considered worth dollars people china parts asia belief tiger parts medicinal properties including pain killers scientific evidence support beliefs use tiger parts drugs china banned government offences connection tiger death furthermore trade tiger parts illegal convention international trade endangered species wild fauna flora domestic trade ban place china trading tiger parts asia major black market industry governmental conservation attempts stop ineffective date black engaged trade based china shipped sold country taiwan south_korea japan chinese subspecies completely killing commerce parts skin trades 1950s 1970s contributing illegal trade number tiger farms country breeding cats profit estimated captive bred semi animals live farms today tigers traditional medicine black market wild ones shot caught tiger remaining range siberia india peninsula sumatra asian black market tiger worth equivalent dollars years million products tiger derivatives found july international convention endangered species geneva switzerland chinese representative admitted time government aware trading tiger skins occurring china captivity ancient roman times tigers kept exhibited trained provoked fight humans exotic 17th century tigers rare ferocious sought european castles symbols owners power tigers central zoo circus exhibits 18th century tiger cost france comparison professor arts earned year united_states lion cost china captive tigers held larger facilities rest held smaller facilities usa tigers facilities nineteen states banned private ownership tigers require license sixteen states regulation genetic ancestry captive tigers fourteen countries regions showed animals belonged distinctly subspecies animals mixed subspecies origins tigers today actually result crosses tigers tiger species survival plan condemned breeding white tigers alleging mixed ancestry unknown lineage genes responsible white represented population growth numbers white tigers points individuals lead depression loss genetic cultural depictions tigers qualities source fascination mankind ancient times routinely visible important cultural media motifs considered charismatic face conservation campaigns worldwide online poll conducted cable television channel animal planet involving viewers countries tiger voted world favourite animal vote narrowly beating dog myth legend chinese myth culture tiger animals chinese chinese art tiger depicted earth symbol equal rival chinese dragon representing matter spirit respectively southern chinese martial art hung based movements tiger crane imperial china tiger war represented highest army general present day defense secretary emperor empress represented dragon phoenix respectively white tiger chinese pinyin symbols chinese called white tiger west represents west autumn season tiger tail appears stories countries including china korea generally grasp tiger tail buddhism tiger creatures anger monkey representing greed deer peoples considered tiger near deity referred grandfather old man called considered tiger king god wears sits tiger skin armed warrior goddess rides battle southern india god associated tiger replaces folklore asia india evil indonesia malaysia somewhat hindu epic tiger ruthless lion literature film william blake poem songs experience titled tiger menacing fearful animal man booker prize winning novel life protagonist surviving months small boat avoids eaten survivor large tiger story adapted lee feature film jim man tells true stories tiger hunting exploits northern region india book sold million copies basis fictional documentary films jungle book tiger khan mortal enemy human protagonist book formed basis live action animated films tiger characters aimed children tend instance comic strip represented simply stuffed animals come life symbol tiger animals displayed seal valley tiger emblem dynasty depicted coins seals banners seals copper coins tiger emblem fish emblem bow indicating achieved political supremacy gold coins found district motifs tiger bow indistinct marks tiger symbol empire later adopted liberation tigers tamil tiger symbol state tamil tamil independence movement tiger national animal india bangladesh malaysian tiger national animal malaysia tiger national animal south_korea successful economies south_korea taiwan hong_kong singapore described asian tigers tiger economy metaphor nation rapid development tiger sports teams world tony tiger famous mascot breakfast brand petrol advertised onwards slogan tiger tank tiger mascot million synthetic tiger tails sold motorists tied petrol tank caps tiger appears distinct beast creature roots european medieval


california sea lion california sea lion coastal seal native western north_america species sea lion natural habitat ranges southeast alaska central mexico including gulf california sea lions sexually males larger females thicker neck protruding crest mainly haul sandy rocky beaches frequent environments sea lions feed number species fish squid preyed white sharks california sea lions breeding pattern august males establish territories try attract females mate females free territories males mothers nurse pups foraging trips sea lions communicate numerous notably mother contact calls outside breeding season sea lions spend time sea come shore sea lions particularly intelligent trained perform tasks display limited fear humans accustomed california sea lions popular choice public display trained united_states_navy certain military operations international union conservation nature iucn lists species concern abundance predation california sea lions threatened endangered salmon species dam resulted killed state officials taxonomy california sea lion described lesson french naturalist grouped sea lions fur seals family known seals differ true seals having external ear flaps larger pectoral muscles sea lion extinct japanese sea lion california sea lion belongs genus derives greek words meaning intensive meaning crest refers protruding crest males distinguishes members genus traditionally sea lion japanese sea lion classified subspecies california sea lion genetic study found fact separate species california japanese sea lion appear split million years ago california sea lion differs sea lion greater sexual sea lion closest extant relative sea lions sister taxon appearance physiology movement sexually california sea lions differ size shape coloration sexes males typically long weigh females typically weigh females juveniles brown temporarily light gray silver adult males light brown black typically dark brown face adult males light tan areas pups black dark brown birth species slender build adult males robust shoulders adult males protruding crest gives high forehead white hairs developed adult male south american sea lions sexes long narrow california sea lion relies propel swimming form aquatic streamlined body effectively reduces drag underwater movement continuous animal stroke flexibility spine allows sea lion bend neck backwards far reach allows animal dorsal turns maintain streamlined posture moving land sea lion able turn forward walk moves transverse fashion addition relies movements head neck terrestrial sea lions travel speeds mph dive depths minutes typically minutes sea lions color vision limited blue green area color spectrum likely adaptation living marine coastal habitats sea lions fairly acute underwater hearing hearing range sea lions rely touch detection vibrations underwater compared harbor seal california sea lion specialized perform following trails perform ecology range habitat california sea lion ranges western coast islands north_america southeast alaska central mexico mitochondrial dna sequences identified distinct california sea lion populations pacific temperate stock western baja california pacific tropical stock southern central northern gulf california stocks stock breeds mainly channel islands breeding sites established northern california females commonly found western baja california stock mainly breeds near santa mentioned stocks separated stocks gulf california live shallow waters north northern stock tidal islands near center central stock mouth bay southern stock stock status sea lions deep waters central bay analyzed breeding season sea lions gather sandy rocky shores warm days lie closer water night cool weather travel farther inland higher elevations non breeding individuals gather navigational california sea lions live fresh water periods time near dam columbia river healthy sea lion found sitting road county california miles upstream san_francisco bay half mile san river diet predation california sea lions feed wide variety mainly squid fish commonly eaten fish squid species include salmon pacific herring market squid forage near mainland coastlines continental shelf search ocean california sea lions eat small large groups depending food available cooperate predators hunting large schools fish sea lions follow exploit hunting efforts adult females feed shore males forage far shore water temperatures rise learned feed salmon fish dam locations fish queue order pass dams locks block passage sea lions preyed killer large sharks bay california sea lions appear common food items eating killer whale pods sea lions respond dorsal fin killer whale remain encountering resident fish eating pods sea lions common prey white sharks found attacks white sharks sharks sharks attack sea lions resting surface sea lions attacked likely survive shore life history reproductive behavior california sea lions breed august arrive breeding establishing territory males try increase chances staying long possible time fast relying thick layer fat called energy size patience allow male defend territory effectively bigger male store longer wait male sea lion usually keeps territory days females long intervals males establish territories females birth fights occur time males rely displays head shaking bluff maintain territorial boundaries temperatures reach time males include water territories territories underwater particularly near steep cliffs sea lions fail establish territory driven sea gather nearby beach mating begins females gather groups individuals females groups mount males groups begin females begin mate territorial mating system california sea lion described similar system females appear choose mates moving different territories avoid males aggressive energetic males usually unable prevent females leaving territories particularly water mating occur outside non territorial males females mating site males single male pups female california sea lions month reproductive cycle consisting month actual gestation month delayed egg giving birth june july intervals particularly long species days sea lions california days sea lions gulf california females remain pups shore days nurse females foraging trips lasting long days returning nurse pups day pups left shore tend gather play returning trip females pups distinctive calls pups reply kind mother distinguish calls mothers pups largely depend efforts mothers pups older involved older pups join mothers foraging trips adult male california sea lions play role raising pups interest adult males species observed help shield swimming pups predators pups year continue year communication california sea lions communicate range commonly characteristic bark territorial males continuous produced constantly peak breeding season sea lions bark especially rapidly excited territorial non territorial males sound similar deeper males bark threatening males courtship territorial males prolonged sound individual human groups non reproductive males female sea lions vocal high pitched shorter males aggressive situations aggressive given females include sound female sea lion gives calling pups called attraction described loud pups respond mother response similar structure pups bark playing distress california sea lions produce underwater include sounds activities outside breeding season males migrate northern ends species range feed females forage near breeding sea lions stay sea long weeks time continuous returning surface rest sea lions travel groups sea haul sea trip adult females juveniles autumn winter adult males january february gulf california sea lions migrate stay gulf year round intelligence marine biologist research associates studied sea lions ability discovered sea lions able recognize relationships based similar functions connections peers common features sea lions demonstrated ability understand simple commands taught artificial sign language sea lions rarely signs california sea lion named recorded head musical rhythms rhythmic previously seen humans birds possessing vocal intelligence california sea lions marine parks perform tricks throwing catching balls running horns musical fashion trainers reward animals fish perform ball balancing trainers toss ball sea lion accidentally balance hold ball nose gaining understanding sea lion year training performing trick public memory allows perform trick months resting organizations humane society united_states world animal protection object sea lions marine mammals entertainment claiming tricks exaggerated variations natural behaviors distract audience animal unnatural environment entertainment oriented encourage animal play throwing fish animals different directions providing play equipment california sea lion military applications navy marine program including detecting naval mines enemy divers persian gulf animals swim divers approaching naval ship attach clamp rope leg navy officials sea lions seconds enemy realizes happened organizations like believe operations animals danger navy insists sea lions removed mission complete status iucn lists california sea lion concern large increasing population size estimated population pacific temperate stock western baja california pacific tropical stock population gulf california pacific_coast united_states sea lions numerous close carrying capacity gulf california population declined sea lions killed conflict fishermen man garbage threatened like ddt accumulate marine food chain united_states california sea lion protected federal marine protection act passed hunting killing capture harassment animal amendment act allowed possibility limited lethal removal endangered level predation documented significant adverse impact decline recovery listed applications granted removal individual sea lions locks dam sea lions killed year year period critics objected killing sea lions pointing level mortality permitted result recreational commercial fisheries river operation hydroelectric dams pose greater threat salmon animals exploit man environments like docks haul sites docks designed withstand weight resting sea lions cause major problems wildlife managers methods control animals city officials redesigned docks better withstand shore sea lions pups crisis january february sick sea lion pups found coast california higher number dead pups pointed cause warm north american west_coast result failed attempt reduced abundance principal components sea lion diet pups nursery season pups leaving search food long capable hunting fish outcome pups washed shores conditions lead pups death rescued time unusual warm waters affect abundance species fish sea food effects mammals birds similar event occurred end unusual mass dead period chicks start


known giant rice rat extinct lesser antilles described basis single lower jaw missing isolated upper uncertain age smaller members genus little known animal distinction larger extinct occurred called question lower jaw length relatively narrow second wide valley outer history remains found john walter gregory cave exact locality unknown description charles major mentioned animal member group published description louis gave describe arthur finally described named gregory wife following major intention caribbean revised ray examined specimens gregory found suggested fact come barbados instead similarly named citing occurrence different cave deposits evidence occurrence native barbados uncertainty gregory visited considerations subsequent literature seldom mentioned described review recent mammals ross reported recovered locality known sink dated stated fact identical samuel suggested different rice rats fact present material imply valid species description remains described literature original specimens gregory found left upper left lower jaw upper diameter length width exhibits significant characters severely damaged lacks angular processes bone contains second lower missing process lower slight raising bone end small preserved impressions left roots supported large roots smaller root second square shows main commonly present strongly developed crest present main valley broad shaped long second narrower poorly developed broad shaped length length second width length width ray described basis abundant skeletal remains antigua carefully distinguished native recorded islands smaller example specimens length lower ranging mean standard compare addition shaped narrow contrast narrow parallel sided broad characters species represented complete material convinced ray distinct species share close relationship instead proposed combination large size occurrence lesser antilles similarity morphology indicated relationship species suggested similarly sized venezuela closely related


swift fox swift fox small light orange tan fox size domestic cat found western north_america montana colorado new_mexico oklahoma texas lives alberta canada previously closely related kit fox species known subspecies hybrids species occur naturally ranges overlap swift fox lives primarily short grass nearly extinct 1930s result predator control programs successfully reintroduced later currently conservation status species considered iucn concern owing stable populations like swift fox diet includes grasses fruits small mammals insects wild lifespan years breeds annually late december march depending geographic region pups born march mid seven weeks old swift fox closely related genetically kit fox occupies different geographical range historically regarded different species reasons basically related size kit fox slightly smaller swift fox narrower snout hybrids occur naturally ranges overlap classify subspecies single species usually treated swift fox described kit fox molecular evidence conclusive continue treat swift fox kit fox separate species description swift fox dark grayish tan coloration extends yellowish tan color sides legs throat chest belly range pale yellow white color tail black tipped black patches muzzle ears noticeably large inches height inches long measuring head tip tail size domestic cat weight ranges seven pounds males females similar appearance males slightly larger habitat distribution swift fox resides primarily short grass form sandy soil open fields fences native great plains region north_america range extends north central alberta canada south texas reaches western iowa colorado kansas wyoming nebraska montana conservation status swift fox severely endangered species predator control programs 1930s aimed gray wolf species canada program started successful establishing small populations southeast alberta southwest despite fact reintroduced individuals survive year species risk act listed swift fox endangered species canada exact population numbers swift fox unknown known currently inhabit historic range addition populations canada swift fox populations united_states ranging south texas fish wildlife service determined fox endangered listing higher priority species listing prompted state wildlife agencies fox range create swift fox conservation team worked implement better swift fox management monitoring programs populations united_states stable central range considered endangered united_states iucn red list characterizes concern behavior wild swift fox usually lives years live years captivity primarily nocturnal spending evenings nighttime ground summer daytime activities usually confined den known spend warm midday period ground winter swift fox heavily dependent den north american shelter predators usually underground meters length known run fast speeds mph mph swift fox main predator chooses consume swift fox predators include golden eagle vulnerable trapping poisoning death highways reproduction adult swift fox breeding season varies region southern united_states mates december february pups born march early april canada breeding season begins march pups born mid male swift fox matures mate year female usually waits second year breeding adults live pairs individuals mate life choose different partners year gestation takes days kits born swift fox litter annually occupy thirteen year moving prey scarce skin parasites build inside den makes bigger animals completely capable digging pups born den typically remain approximately month newborn eyes ears remain closed days leaving dependent mother food protection time usually seven weeks old remains parents fall recent research shown social organization swift fox unusual based females females maintain territories times males resident female killed removed diet like swift fox rabbits mice ground birds insects staples grasses fruits round diet like efficient swift fox takes advantage seasonal foods summer adults eat large amounts insects including beetles feed young larger prey items deer killed animals important food sources


native northeast democratic republic central africa bears striped markings reminiscent closely related living members family stands tall shoulder average body length weight ranges long neck large flexible ears coat chocolate reddish brown contrast white horizontal stripes rings legs white male short hair covered horns called length females possess hair absent primarily active hours darkness essentially solitary coming breed feeding tree leaves grasses fruits fungi males females depend season captivity cycles days period days long following usually single born juveniles kept hiding nursing takes place juveniles start taking solid food months takes place months inhabit canopy forests altitudes endemic tropical forests democratic republic occur central northern eastern regions international union conservation nature natural resources iucn endangered major threats include habitat loss logging human settlement extensive hunting skin illegal mining led decline populations conservation project established protect populations etymology taxonomy scientific described british zoologist ray generic derives specific recognition british governor sir harry acquired specimen science forest group belgian animal brought prominent european attention speculation existence found press reports covering henry stanley journeys remains later sent london english colonial administrator harry media event zoologist philip presented painting society london depicted physical features clarity confusion status newly discovered animal sir harry called relative extinct based description referred horse named species subsequently declared represented unknown genus placed genus assigned species swiss zoologist charles major suggested inclusion extinct subfamily species placed subfamily swedish mainly lack major feature finally established sister genus basis analysis genera constitute tribe evolution earliest members appeared early africa having diverged deer like spread europe asia middle radiation radiation began terminated decline diversity pleistocene important primitive existed million years ago including according author hunt split million years ago million years ago author skinner argued gave rise genera extant form referred example living fossil existed species long geological time period resembles primitive forms study published found common ancestor lived million years ago characteristics medium sized standing tall shoulder average body length weight ranges long neck large flexible ears coat chocolate reddish brown contrast white horizontal stripes rings legs white striking stripes resemble features serve effective camouflage amidst dense vegetation face throat chest white present feet slightly larger feet male short hair covered horns called length exhibits sexual females taller average slightly lacking prominent horns instead possessing hair shows adaptations tropical habitat large number rod cells facilitate night vision efficient system large lead strong sense hearing dental formula teeth low crowned fine efficiently cut tender foliage large help quick rate food passage allows lower cell wall easily distinguished nearest extant relative smaller shares external similarities deer sexes possess horns males bear horns large unique morphological similarities shared include similar use pacing stepping simultaneously hind leg body unlike walk moving alternate legs body long black tongue longer useful leaves ecology behaviour primarily active hours darkness essentially solitary coming breed overlapping home ranges typically occur animals square kilometre male home ranges average km2 female home ranges average km2 males migrate continuously females males mark territories bushes females use common sites common practice focused neck neck trees leaving brown male protective territory allows females pass domain forage males visit female home ranges time breeding generally kick butt head aggression vocal poorly developed vocal communication mainly restricted sounds contact calls sexes females courtship stress individuals engage response visual expression animals upper lips displays teeth mouth seconds leopard main predator diet feeding tree leaves grasses fruits fungi prefer feed gaps staple food comprises shrubs main constituents diet woody species plants eaten regularly forest feeds mainly plant families reproduction female sexually mature half year old males reach maturity years males females depend season captivity cycles days male female begin courtship male shows dominance extending neck head protruding leg forward followed mounting period days long following usually single born weighing pregnant female starts swelling months occur takes hours female stands period rest brief intervals mother extensively infant milk female rich proteins low fat content infant stand minutes birth generally similar adults newborn false long dorsal long white hairs stripes features gradually disappear way general appearance year juveniles kept hiding nursing takes place growth rate high months birth gradually declines juveniles start taking solid food months takes place months horn development males takes year birth average lifespan years habitat distribution inhabit canopy forests altitudes endemic tropical forests democratic republic occur gallery forests habitats disturbed human settlement swamp forests occasionally use inundated areas wet season visit rocky offer forage uncommon study found population density averaged animals square kilometre mixed forests occurs central northern eastern democratic republic north east river species ranges forest northward forest river basins lake west river north smaller populations exist west south river common areas extinct threats conservation international union conservation nature natural resources iucn endangered fully protected law wildlife reserve national park support significant populations steady decline numbers threats areas occurrence hunting reserve reserve major threats include habitat loss logging human settlement extensive hunting skin illegal mining led population declines threat emerged recently presence illegal armed groups protected areas conservation monitoring actions small population occurs north national park protection presence armed groups vicinity june gang attacked headquarters wildlife reserve killing guards staff captive conservation project established works conservation growth indigenous people november white oak conservation center jacksonville zoo gardens hosted international meeting species survival plan european endangered species programme jacksonville attended representatives usa europe japan aim discuss management captive arrange support conservation north_america europe currently captivity


mammals obsolete term taxonomic group including mammals groups thought related proposed thomas set apart usually classified mammals arrangement received little support workers teeth extinct mammals discovered argentina 1980s thought related leading renewed attention hypothesis early 1990s shown unrelated considered history term coined british thomas review tooth development mammals found especially distinctive group included placed according thomas teeth derived earliest stage dental evolution consequently suggested given grouping separate major mammals terms introduced thomas new grouping suggested indicate position separate mammals greek means thomas included unable provide satisfactory scenario origin wholly unique compare fish thomas arrangement marie classification placed considered major division poorly toothed group considered distinct toothed similarly paul proposed placed separate mammals thomas hypothesis received little support attention subsequent years henry remarked new studies teeth indicated distinct thomas thought william scott place separate apparently follow thomas theories origins teeth william king gregory reviewed mammals placed gave alternative included tentatively fossil included hypothesis enjoyed brief renaissance unusual high crowned teeth began turning cretaceous fossil record argentina argentina assigned ranked taxonomic rank years later named late cretaceous argentina thought related tentatively assigned ranked described additional related animal late cretaceous classified order tentatively assigned argued george simpson view derive north_america instead suggested split extinct relatives early early cretaceous derived early abandoned grouping early mammals including abandoned proposed relationship instead shown related late cretaceous animal turned relation later controversial longer thought related doubt molecular data supported placement major longer use