horse horse extant subspecies odd belonging taxonomic family horse evolved past million years small multi creature large single animal today humans began horses believed widespread horses subspecies populations live wild feral horses feral populations true wild horses term describe horses endangered horse separate subspecies remaining true wild horse extensive specialized vocabulary describe related concepts covering anatomy life stages size colors markings breeds behavior horses anatomy enables use speed escape predators developed sense balance strong fight flight response related need flee predators wild unusual trait horses able sleep standing lying female horses called carry young approximately months young horse called stand run shortly following birth horses begin training saddle harness ages reach adult development age average lifespan years horse breeds loosely divided categories based general temperament spirited hot speed endurance cold draft horses suitable slow heavy work developed crosses hot cold focusing creating breeds specific riding purposes particularly europe breeds horse world today developed different uses horses humans interact wide variety sport competitions non competitive recreational pursuits working activities police work agriculture entertainment therapy horses historically warfare wide variety riding driving techniques developed different styles equipment methods control products derived horses including meat milk hide hair bone extracted pregnant humans provide horses food water shelter attention specialists biology specific terms specialized language describe anatomy different life stages colors breeds lifespan life stages depending breed management environment modern domestic horse life years animals live occasionally oldest record old billy 19th century horse lived age modern times sugar listed world records world oldest living pony died age regardless horse pony actual birth date competition purposes year added age january year northern hemisphere august southern hemisphere exception endurance riding minimum age compete based animal actual calendar age following terminology describe horses ages male horse age common terminology error young horse term actually refers young male horses female horse age horse sex year old nursing called called seven months age months adverse physical effects male horse age mare female horse years old older stallion non male horse years old older term horse colloquially refer specifically stallion horse sex years old horse racing definitions differ example british isles horse racing defines years old australian racing defines years old size measurement height horses usually measured highest point neck meets point stable point anatomy unlike head neck relation body horse english speaking countries height horses stated units hands inches hand equal inches height expressed number hands followed point number additional inches ending hands high horse described hands plus inches total inches height size horses varies breed influenced nutrition light riding horses usually range height hands inches weigh kilograms larger riding horses usually start hands inches tall hands inches weighing kilograms heavy draft horses usually hands inches high tall hands inches high weigh kilograms largest horse recorded history probably horse named born stood hands inches high peak weight estimated kilograms current record holder world smallest horse fully mature miniature horse affected tall weighs animals horses distinction horse pony commonly drawn basis height especially competition purposes height difference horses include aspects including temperament traditional standard height horse pony maturity hands inches animal usually considered horse pony exceptions traditional standard australia considered hands inches competition western division united_states equestrian federation hands inches international federation equestrian sports world governing body horse sport uses metric measurements defines pony horse measuring centimetres shoes centimetres shoes height sole criterion distinguishing horses breed horses typically produce individuals consider animals breed horses regardless height conversely pony breeds features common horses individual animals occasionally mature considered exhibit thicker tails overall coat shorter legs wider barrels heavier bone shorter thicker short heads broad horses high level intelligence cooperate human small size exclusive example pony averages hands inches considered pony conversely breeds miniature horses taller inches classified small horses horses horse contains billion dna base pairs larger dog smaller human map available researchers colors markings horses exhibit diverse array coat colors distinctive markings described specialized vocabulary horse classified coat color breed sex horses color distinguished white markings spotting patterns inherited separately coat color genes create horse coat colors patterns identified current genetic tests identify different influencing coat color research continues discover new genes linked specific traits basic coat colors chestnut black determined gene controlled known extension gene red factor form red chestnut dominant form black additional genes control suppression black color point coloration results bay spotting patterns leopard genes factors create possible coat colors found horses horses white coat color horse looks white usually middle aged older gray born darker shade lighter age usually black skin underneath white hair coat exception pink skin white markings horses properly called white born predominantly white hair coat pink skin fairly rare occurrence different unrelated genetic factors produce white coat colors horses including different dominant white gene horses defined having pink skin red eyes reproduction development gestation lasts approximately days average range days usually results twins rare horses species capable standing running short time following birth usually born spring cycle mare occurs roughly days occurs early spring autumn enter period winter cycle period generally mothers months age horses particularly physically capable reproduction months horses rarely allowed breed age especially females horses years old considered mature skeleton normally continues develop age maturation depends horse size breed sex quality care larger horses larger bones bones longer form bone tissue plates larger longer convert bone plates convert parts bones crucial development depending maturity breed work expected horses usually saddle trained ridden ages race horses track young age countries horses specifically bred sports generally saddle years old bones muscles developed endurance riding competition horses deemed mature compete calendar months years old anatomy skeletal system horse skeleton averages bones significant difference horse skeleton human lack horse attached spinal column powerful set muscles attach shoulder blade horse legs unique structures leg bones differently human example body called horse knee actually bones correspond human wrist similarly contains bones equivalent human ankle heel lower leg bones horse correspond bones human hand foot incorrectly called ankle actually bones cannon bones single equivalent human bones located finds human horse muscles legs knees skin hair bone specialized tissues critical importance feet legs summed traditional foot horse horse begins equivalent human tip toe surrounded specialized blood rich soft tissues exterior wall horn sole material human end result horse weighing average kilograms travels bones human protection certain conditions horses placed feet professional continually grows horses needs trimmed reset weeks horses wild wear rate suitable terrain teeth horses adapted grazing adult horse mouth adapted biting grass vegetation teeth adapted mouth additional teeth type teeth called horses male female develop small teeth known wolf teeth generally removed interfere bit space bit rests directly bars horse mouth horse estimate horse age looking teeth teeth continue life worn grazing changes horse ages develop distinct wear pattern changes tooth shape changes angle surfaces meet allows rough estimate horse age diet care affect rate tooth wear horses digestive system adapted forage diet grasses plant material consumed steadily day compared humans relatively small stomach long facilitate steady flow nutrients kilogram horse eat kilograms food day normal use drink litres imp gal gal water horses stomach like humans unlike humans utilize major component grass horses bacteria occurs water gut food goes reaching large horses problems quickly cause leading cause death senses horses senses based status prey animals aware surroundings times largest eyes land lateral eyed meaning eyes positioned sides heads means horses range vision approximately vision remaining vision horses excellent day night vision color vision color vision somewhat like red green color humans certain colors especially red related colors appear shade green sense smell better humans good dog believed play key role social interactions horses detecting key environment horses centers system nostrils nasal cavity analyze wide range second located nasal cavity organs called organs separate nerve brain appear primarily analyze horse hearing good ear rotate giving potential hearing having head noise impacts behavior horses certain kinds noise contribute stress study indicated horses quiet setting listening country classical music displayed signs listening jazz rock music study recommended keeping music volume australian study found listening talk radio higher rate horses listening music radio played higher overall rate horses radio playing horses great sense balance partly ability feel partly highly developed unconscious sense body limbs times horse sense touch developed sensitive areas eyes ears nose horses able sense contact subtle insect landing body horses advanced sense taste allows sort fodder choose like eat lips easily sort small grains horses generally eat poisonous plants exceptions horses occasionally eat toxic amounts poisonous plants adequate healthy food movement horses naturally basic beat walk averages kilometres hour mph beat kilometres hour mph faster harness racing horses beat kilometres hour mph averages kilometres hour mph world record horse short sprint distance kilometres hour mph basic horses perform beat pace instead beat approximately speed pace ride include lateral rack running walk diagonal fox genetic breeds known collectively horses horses replace behavior horses prey animals strong fight flight response reaction threat usually flee stand ground defend flight impossible young threatened tend curious instant cause flee perceive non threatening light horse riding breeds developed speed agility endurance natural qualities extend wild ancestors selective breeding breeds horses particularly certain draft horses horses herd animals clear hierarchy rank led dominant individual usually mare social creatures able form species animals including humans communicate ways including mutual body language horses difficult manage isolated training horses learn accept human companion comfortable away horses confined insufficient exercise individuals develop stable assortment bad habits psychological origin include wood wall kicking weaving rocking forth problems intelligence learning studies indicated horses perform number tasks daily basis meeting mental challenges include food identification individuals social system good spatial discrimination abilities studies assessed intelligence areas problem solving speed learning memory horses simple learning able use advanced abilities involve concept learning learn classical conditioning conditioning positive negative reinforcement study indicated horses differentiate quantity involved horses face greater mental challenges wild horses live artificial environments prevent behavior whilst learning tasks natural horses animals habit respond respond best routines techniques consistently trainer believes intelligent horses reflections intelligent trainers effectively use response conditioning techniques positive reinforcement train style best fits individual animal natural temperament horses mammals warm creatures opposed cold animals words developed separate meaning context terminology describe temperament body temperature example hot race horses exhibit sensitivity energy cold draft breeds hot classified light horses riding horses cold classified draft horses work horses hot breeds include oriental horses arabian horse extinct horse breed developed england older oriental breeds hot tend spirited bold learn quickly bred agility speed tend physically refined thin skinned slim long legged original oriental breeds brought europe middle_east north_africa european breeders wished traits racing light cavalry horses muscular heavy draft horses known cold bred strength calm patient temperament needed pull heavy carriage people nicknamed gentle giants known draft breeds include belgian like lighter developed pull carriages large fields drier climates slower powerful bred fields heavy clay based soils cold group includes pony breeds breeds developed european carriage war horses crossed producing riding horse draft horse greater size temperament lighter breed certain pony breeds characteristics developed smaller riders considered light horse riding horse today term refers specific sport horse breeds competition jumping strictly speaking term warm blood refers cross cold hot breeds examples include breeds irish draught cleveland bay term refer breeds light riding horse morgan horse sleep patterns horses able sleep standing lying adaptation life wild horses able enter light sleep stay apparatus legs allowing collapsing horses sleep better groups animals sleep stand guard watch predators horse kept sleep instincts constant eye danger unlike humans horses sleep solid period time short periods rest horses spend hours day standing rest minutes hours lying total sleep time hour period range minutes couple hours short intervals minutes average sleep time domestic horse said hours day horses lie reach sleep lie hour days meet minimum sleep requirements horse allowed lie days sleep deprived rare cases suddenly collapse slips sleep standing condition differs horses suffer disorder taxonomy evolution horse adapted survive areas wide open terrain sparse vegetation surviving ecosystem large grazing animals especially horses odd order group mammals dominant period past order contained families horse related species survived present day earliest known member family lived million years ago period toes foot toes foot extra toe feet soon disappeared lived million years ago time extra toes size vanished remains modern horses set small bones leg knee known informally bones legs lengthened toes disappeared animal capable running great speed million years ago modern evolved teeth evolved soft tropical plants adapt drier plant material grazing tougher plains grasses horses changed leaf eating forest grass eating inhabitants semi arid regions worldwide including great plains north_america years ago widespread species horse bones time period late pleistocene found europe north_america years ago horse extinct north_america rare reasons extinction fully known theory notes extinction north_america paralleled human arrival theory points climate change noting approximately years ago grasses characteristic ecosystem gave way covered plants wild species surviving modern times truly wild horse species subspecies ancestors wild horses today actually feral horses animals escaped turned loose domestic descendants animals subspecies horse survived recorded history survives today horse named russian explorer rare asian animal known wild horse people know people subspecies presumed extinct wild small breeding population survived world wild conservation efforts numerous today small wild breeding population exists additional animals maintained world european wild horse found europe asia survived historical era extinct captive died russian zoo genetic line lost attempts recreate resulted horses outward physical similarities nonetheless descended ancestors true wild horses periodically populations horses isolated areas speculated populations wild horses generally proven feral domestic example horse proposed testing reveal genetic differences horses similarly portugal proposed direct descendant based shared characteristics genetic studies shown closely related horse breeds outward similarity unreliable measure modern horse seven species genus family ass mountain plains horses members genus common hybrid cross jack male mare related hybrid cross stallion female hybrids include cross horse rare exceptions hybrids sterile reproduce horse likely took place central asia prior major sources information determine horse horse spread world source based archaeological discoveries second source comparison dna obtained modern horses bones teeth ancient horse remains earliest archaeological evidence horse comes sites ukraine dating approximately horse completely sharp increase number horse bones found human settlements northwestern europe indicating spread horses continent recent evidence comes sites horse remains interred graves cultures studied genetic material present day horses comparing genetic material present bones teeth horse remains found archaeological excavations variation genetic material shows wild contributed domestic horse early reflected difference genetic variation dna passed paternal line versus passed maternal dam line mitochondrial dna low levels great deal genetic variation mitochondrial dna regional variation mitochondrial dna inclusion wild domestic characteristic increase coat color variation horses increased dramatically availability dna techniques resolve questions related horse proposed classification based body types suggesting presence basic prototypes adapted environment prior hypothesis held prototypes originated single wild species different body types entirely result selective breeding lack horse resulted rejection feral populations feral horses born live wild descended animals populations feral horses exist world studies feral provided useful insights behavior prehistoric horses greater understanding instincts behaviors drive horses live conditions semi feral horses parts world new forest animals privately owned live significant amounts time wild conditions undeveloped public lands owners animals pay fee grazing rights breeds concept controlled written breed registry come particularly significant important modern times horses incorrectly called specific breed horse horse animal defined pedigree recognized breed registry horse breeds groups horses distinctive characteristics transmitted consistently offspring color performance ability disposition inherited traits result combination natural crosses artificial selection methods horses bred early example people practiced selective horse breeding reputation careful practices keeping extensive arabian horses placing great value pure originally transmitted oral tradition 14th century monks southern spain kept meticulous found today horse breeds developed need form function necessity develop certain characteristics order perform particular type work powerful refined breed developed riding horses heavy draft horses developed need perform demanding farm work pull heavy wagons horse breeds developed specifically light agricultural work carriage road work sport disciplines simply pets breeds developed centuries crossing breeds descended single foundation limited restricted foundation earliest formal general stud book began traced foundation breed horse breeds world today interaction humans worldwide horses play role human cultures horses leisure activities sports working purposes food agriculture organization estimates horses world americas asia europe smaller portions africa oceania estimated horses united_states american horse council estimates horse related activities direct impact economy united_states billion indirect spending considered impact billion poll conducted animal planet viewers countries voted horse world 4th favorite animal communication human horse paramount equestrian activity aid process horses usually ridden saddle backs assist rider balance positioning related assist rider maintaining control horses ridden saddle occasionally horses trained perform horses driven requires harness type vehicle sport historically skills games races equestrian sports provided entertainment crowds excellent needed battle sports jumping origins military training focused control balance horse rider sports developed practical skills needed working stations sport hunting horseback evolved earlier practical hunting techniques horse racing types evolved impromptu competitions riders drivers forms competition requiring demanding specialized skills horse rider resulted systematic development specialized breeds equipment sport popularity equestrian sports centuries resulted preservation skills disappeared horses stopped combat horses trained ridden driven variety sporting competitions examples include jumping day competitive driving endurance riding fox hunting horse shows origins medieval european held world host huge range classes covering mounted harness disciplines hand classes horses led ridden evaluated method judging varies discipline winning usually depends style ability horse rider sports polo judge horse use horse partner human competitors necessary game horse requires specialized training participate details performance judged result rider actions getting ball goal task examples sports partnership human horse include main goal rider team game played central asia aim capture goat horseback horse racing equestrian sport major international industry watched nation world types flat racing racing jumps harness racing horses pace pulling driver small light cart known major horse racing economic importance lies gambling associated work certain jobs horses technology developed fully replace example mounted police horses effective certain types patrol duties crowd control cattle require riders horseback round cattle scattered remote rugged terrain search rescue organizations countries depend mounted teams locate people particularly children provide disaster relief assistance horses areas necessary avoid disruption delicate soil nature reserves form transport allowed wilderness areas horses vehicles law enforcement officers park rangers game use horses patrols horses clearing trails work areas rough terrain vehicles effective machinery replaced horses parts world estimated million horses agriculture transportation developed areas number includes million working animals africa land management practices logging efficiently performed horses agriculture fossil fuel increased environmental conservation occurs time use draft animals horses logging horses result reduced damage soil structure damage trees selective logging entertainment culture modern horses historical work purposes horses complete equipment authentic recreated replica live action historical specific periods history especially famous battles horses preserve cultural traditions ceremonial purposes countries united_kingdom use horse drawn carriages convey royalty certain culturally significant events public exhibitions example seen public settings team draft horses pull beer wagon similar invention modern truck horses frequently seen television films literature featured major character films particular animals visual elements assure accuracy historical stories live horses iconic images horses advertising promote variety products horse frequently appears coats arms variety poses equipment cultures including roman hindu islamic norse include references normal horses wings additional limbs multiple myths horse draw moon sun horse appears year cycle animals chinese related chinese calendar use people ages physical mental disabilities obtain beneficial results association horses riding mentally physically stimulate disabled persons help improve lives improved balance coordination increased self confidence greater feeling freedom independence benefits equestrian activity people disabilities recognized addition equestrian events paralympic games recognition equestrian events international federation equestrian sports horseback riding names different physical speech therapy treatment strategies utilize movement uses horse movement improve patient coordination balance fine motor skills horseback riding uses specific riding skills horses provide psychological benefits people actually ride assisted facilitated therapy form uses horses companion animals assist people mental illness including anxiety disorders disorders mood disorders difficulties going major life changes experimental programs horses prison settings exposure horses appears improve behavior inmates help reduce leave warfare horses warfare recorded history archaeological evidence horses warfare dates use horses warfare widespread end bronze age largely replaced horse weapon war horses seen today limited military uses ceremonial purposes reconnaissance transport activities areas rough terrain vehicles ineffective horses 21st century militias war products horses raw material products humans history including slaughter horses materials collected living horses products collected living horses include mare milk people large horse let produce horse blood food nomadic tribes found convenient source nutrition traveling drinking horses blood allowed ride extended periods time stopping eat drug mixture extracted pregnant pregnant previously widely drug replacement therapy tail hair horses making bows string instruments violin viola cello double bass horse meat food humans animals ages eaten parts world consumption taboo cultures subject political controversy leather boots gloves jackets baseball gloves horse produce animal horse bones specifically italian cuisine horse probe called test readiness pig asia vessel production care horses grazing animals major source nutrients good quality forage hay pasture consume approximately body weight dry feed day kilogram adult horse eat kilograms food concentrated feed grain fed addition pasture hay especially animal active grain fed recommend animal diet weight forage horses require plentiful supply clean water minimum gallons gallons day horses adapted live outside require shelter wind precipitation range simple shed shelter elaborate stable horses require routine care protect diseases dental examinations specialized horses kept inside barn require regular daily exercise physical health mental turned outside require maintained fences safely contained regular helpful help horse maintain good health hair coat underlying skin


slow slow greater slow species slow native indonesia western malaysia southern thailand singapore measures head tail weighs like slow wet nose round head small ears hidden thick fur flat face large eyes tail slow nocturnal typically occurring forests prefers continuous dense extremely low rate compared mammals size diet consists floral fruit feed wounds trees species generally solitary study showed active time spent near individuals social behavior makes small activity budget mating system offspring living parents sleeps day rolled ball hidden parts trees ground branches twigs palm species usually giving birth single offspring gestation period days young months generally sexually mature species listed vulnerable iucn red list threatened extinction growing demand exotic pet trade abundant species sale indonesian pet markets teeth pulled sold pets result infection death process makes wild impossible suffers habitat loss severe areas found etymology common slow refers islands group islands western archipelago found common species greater slow specific derives common indonesia commonly known meaning shy indonesian called local people distinguish slow group malaysia known monkey fruit bearing tree thailand called translates wind monkey taxonomy phylogeny slow described dutch physician naturalist discovery dates described specimen type gave french later argued closely aligned ceylon sri_lanka slow species described william charles hill influential book comparative anatomy taxonomy consolidated slow single species recognized slow separate species divided subspecies opined species subspecies subspecies promoted species status slow slow slow species based largely differences morphology size fur color head markings end slow divided distinct species saint defined genus slow type species questioned british zoologist thomas noted confusion specimen type specimen instead suggested type specimen actually slow confusion 1800s routinely mistaken species described 10th edition fact actually slender remained obscured stone james finally cleared air species size metacentric metacentric help clarify species subspecies boundaries establish morphology based classifications consistent evolutionary relationships phylogenetic relationships genus investigated dna sequences derived mitochondrial markers loop recognized including slow slow slow shown genetically distinct analysis suggested dna sequences selected individuals slow slow shared closer evolutionary relationship members respective species authors suggest result explained tested individuals taxa originated region southern thailand precise origin individuals known hypothesis study compared variations mitochondrial dna sequences suggested gene flow species anatomy physiology slow dark rings large eyes white nose whitish strip extends forehead dark stripe stretches head spine soft thick fur ranges light brown deep reddish brown lighter underside species distinct slow dark markings eyes meet dark dorsal stripe head tends distinct white stripe eyes distinct dark coloring eyes coat slow larger shows contrast slow white facial coloring smaller slow local color variations known occur measures centimetres weighs grams unlike slow slow sexual weight tail hidden beneath fur reduced forward facing teeth jaw includes lower teeth structure generally use foraging shortened second digit hands strong grip like strong liquid beneath arms communication major distinguishing feature species slow moves slowly trees limbs typically limbs attached support time movement described unique similar crawling climbing direction slow changes direction moves branches little noise change speed captivity quarter time spent moving quarter suspended hanging quarter climbing quarter multiple branches hang branch feet long periods time behavior ecology like slow slow nocturnal resting day trees thick vegetation feeding fruit insects night unlike species remains trees life slow sleep ground slow sleeps ball branches foliage usually sleeps observed sleep individuals species including adults adults live overlapping ranges km2 despite slow rate slow high energy diet slow lifestyle energy costs certain secondary plant compounds genera food plants largest time spent eating floral producing plant parts fruits spiders insects taken wounds trees known feed including giant land birds eggs slow species produce spread bodies offspring threatened predators slow bite roll ball exposing toxic covered fur roll drop trees primary method predator avoidance hides hawk eagle recorded predators slow social systems slow fit single male single female social system mainly known solitary study showed species active time spent near individuals home ranges overlap spatial groups formed groups consist male female younger individuals interactions individuals largely friendly include following click calling social behaviors activity budget comes contact home ranges usually reaction home ranges defended captivity aggressive individuals males shown antagonistic behaviors attacks pursuits threats assertion fighting fighting results injury despite known generally captivity common social behavior communication distinct types slow adults divided categories contact contact seeking calls short social play attention seeking aggressive defensive calls long screams rely avoid predators alarm calls disturbed females whistle calls visual contact male exploring new environments handling makes human hearing range communication important species roles identity physical state position individual important reproduction like slow slow spread scent thought evolved communication toxic humans person animal shock die signal deposits scent slow face substrate scent found slow bare teeth stressed adults bear teeth aggression fear play reproduction reproduction times slow largely solitary study recorded slow seen appeared female males following suggest mating system females mate male despite size small compared similar sized indicative wild mating system slow thought vary populations sexual maturity reached ages months females reached months males having periods sexual year captivity clear birth peak march observed reproductive patterns captive northern hemisphere altered cycle lasts days occurring day females followed males initiated female female hang branch male hold female branch marking female mating male create mating plug following gestation period averages days young born observed males females disperse wild occurs months distribution habitat slow found continuous canopy tropical live types habitat found indonesia islands sumatra archipelago great islands malaysia peninsula southern thailand singapore slow shares range slow thailand occurred conservation according international union conservation nature iucn red list assessment slow evaluated vulnerable june transferred cites appendix appendix indicating true concern state international trade species act forbidden international law protected indonesian law law strictly enforced population size unknown studies need carried confirm conservation status slow greatly threatened pet trade sold exotic pet southeast_asia slow commonly traded protected southeast_asia sold pet teeth pulled prevent injury owner cause dental death rate lost teeth wild impossible high mortality rate captivity stress improper nutrition infection pet trade inflated replacements greater purchasing power increasing human populations species range impact slow threatened gathering illegal traditional medicine fur reported heal wounds flesh cure eyes love meat reported cure stomach problems killed crop pest severe habitat loss degradation large areas range caused large population declines species habitats region resulting restricted species dispersal depends continuous canopy cover tree tree


white white known gray species type new world monkey eastern area western brazil species range extends east river department southern brazil southern end range includes forests city santa sierra medium sized monkey grey orange underside distinctive white ear diet eating fruits plant materials invertebrates primarily monkey species known attack species species lives small groups seven members consisting pair offspring family group home range square kilometres adults complex vocal repertoire maintain territory known characteristic tails groups sitting white live years captivity white population declining trend decline believed mainly caused human induced habitat loss degradation despite international union conservation nature iucn classified species concern shown habitat disturbance found wide range taxonomy white belongs new world monkey family contains member subfamily extant genus containing exact position species genus debated white placed subgenus group rio rio brothers white coated white coated considered subspecies white treated separate species latest edition species world physical description white medium sized grey orange species exhibit sexual male head body length averages millimetres females average millimetres white tail longer length head body typically thick fur dorsal limbs vary colour grey orange orange underside white ear body weight ranges grams female generally little lighter dental formula meaning jaw tooth teeth teeth relatively short compared new world captivity white known live years behaviour white cryptic known live small family groups species thought mate life lives groups usually consist seven members adult pair young multi male groups recorded offspring carried male feeding ages years offspring disperse group females leaving earlier males strong bond adult mating pair stay close carry activities member pair follow leadership changes day evidence strength pair bond shown tails gentle highly territorial confronted family group respond threatening behaviour males showing increased males close pair significant distress known vocal communication complex repertoire calls calls divided categories high pitched quiet calls low pitched loud calls combined repeated form sequences indicate distress conflict play bonding disturbance strengthen territory high pitched quiet calls disturbed group calling foraging find members group loud low pitched calls long distance group calling function ensure adequate home ranges different family groups known generally involve male female neighbouring group calls respond white spending time lower strata forest enter main canopy travelling longer distances cross small areas open ground rare normal movement environment walks leaps bound climb leaps small distances body lengths trees vegetation thick support primary forms travelling ground said use movement leaps metre ground monkey prefers branches centimetres diameter tail touches support ecology relatively little known ecology white general studies focused white commencing activity sunrise continuing sunset food availability influence activity times abundance food warmer months plants fruiting start earlier lack food remain feeding tree evening monkey usually rests middle day main feeding periods morning afternoon increased period feeding end day total monkey active average hours hours spent feeding sleep branches metres ground manner resting day tails sleep little published research diet white general eat fruit leaves insects seeds eat leaves especially protein rich young leaves leaf significant period day spent resting digest consume different species plants fruit eat small insects ants butterflies spiders catch flying prey comes close dry season increased feeding time leaves thought insect consumption increases augment protein content diet monkey travel day maintain home range km2 dry season fruit available need travel large distances day range usual distance home range shared species including owl spider chased feeding sites larger species generally try avoid habitat distribution white found tropical humid forests preferring drier regions humid ones found zones gallery forests clearly associated open habitats like found areas dense vegetation choosing inhabit parts forest species tolerant habitat disturbance white found upper parts san river basins east river forests surrounding city santa sierra range extends north southern brazil conservation status white considered concern international union conservation nature iucn red list species considered threatened abundance relatively wide range despite having decreasing population trend decline rapid placed threatened category species listed cites appendix white main threat habitat loss agriculture area greatest habitat loss city santa sierra survives city limits edges rural establishments natural predators proven habitat disturbance farmland surround areas habitat occasionally positive benefits monkey farmers prevent hunters land inadvertently protecting species appears monkey cross open ground forest fragments groups thrive disturbed habitats near human activities fragmented habitats prevent establishment new territories decrease reproductive opportunities forest corridors connect fragmented forests proposed effective means help ensure survival monkey white found biological station reserve national park benefits protection reserves provide


simply smallest member genus family smallest native north_america north_africa introduced new_zealand australia malta crete bermuda island azores islands islands argentina chile classed concern iucn wide distribution presumed large population parts range vary greatly size body slender elongated legs tail relatively short colour varies geographically type length tail dorsal surface flanks limbs tail animal usually shade brown white line boundary colours usually straight high altitudes northern range coat pure white winter eighteen subspecies recognised small form largest diet kills eats rabbits mammals occasionally birds birds eggs fish frogs males mark territories signals exclusive home ranges intersect include female ranges use pre existing holes sleep store food raise young breeding takes place spring summer single litter kits exclusively female small size fierce nature behaviour plays important mythology legend cultures taxonomy evolution given scientific 12th edition type locality sweden animal wide distribution morphology varies geographically species reviewed van placed subgenus considered included subgenus gale based skull characteristics proposed taxon split species disagreed recognising separate species genus relatively form evidenced skull occurs large subspecies direct ancestor lived europe middle pleistocene probably preceded modern species probably arose late pleistocene product process begun million years ago northern forests replaced open grassland prompting explosive evolution small ancestors larger current form underwent reduction size exploit new food source ice age small size long body allowed easily operate beneath snow hunt probably crossed north_america land bridge years ago subspecies high geographic variation fact historically led numerous disagreements studying subspecies divided categories group small tiny short tails turn pure white winter inhabit northern european russia siberia russian far_east finland northern scandinavian peninsula northeastern china japan north_america group large large large relatively long tails lighter coloured locally turn white partially change colour winter inhabit western flat middle asia found morocco algeria tunisia group average medium sized tails moderate length representing transitional form groups inhabit middle southern regions european russia western southern middle parts middle asia save subspecies recognised description thin greatly elongated extremely flexible body small elongated blunt head thicker neck eyes large dark coloured legs tail relatively short half body length feet armed sharp dark coloured claws heavily haired skull especially small group appearance compared members genus particular expressed relatively large size shortened facial region skull overall similar smaller large male tend overlap size small female usually pairs visible females short thick straight shaft fat deposited spine gut limbs muscular anal tail measure contain including smell chemical composition chemicals distinct moves jumping distance tracks fore hind limbs dimensions vary geographically extent rarely found mammals group example smaller races times large subspecies male times longer female variations tail length variable length body average body length males females average tail measures males females males weigh females weigh winter fur dense short closely fitting northern subspecies fur soft silky coarse southern forms summer fur short upper parts summer fur dark vary geographically dark dark chocolate light pale sandy lower parts including lower jaw inner sides legs white brown spot corner mouth dividing line dark upper light lower parts usually straight forms irregular line tail brown tip little darker black northern range high altitudes changes colour winter coat pure white exhibiting black hairs rare circumstances behaviour ecology reproduction development mates april july day gestation period northern hemisphere average litter size consists kits reach sexual maturity months males mate year life usually unsuccessful february october early stages occur winter months females lasts september february female raises kits help male weight birth newborn kits born pink naked blind deaf gain white coat fur age days days margin dark upper parts light parts visible milk teeth weeks age point young start eat solid food weeks eyes ears open weeks age weeks killing behaviour developed family breaks weeks single litter year live years territorial social typical territorial pattern consisting exclusive male ranges encompassing multiple female ranges population density territory depends greatly food supply reproductive success social structure population density given territory unstable flexible like male extends range spring food shortages scent marking behaviour similar uses anal dermal deposited anal dragging body dig den nests abandoned species mole rat entrance measures leads nest chamber located ground nest chamber sleeping kits storing food measures diameter lined straw skins prey basic emitted alarmed interspersed short screaming provoked defensive encounters males females mother kits high pitched way expressing aggression similar dominant exhibit aggressive encounters diet feeds predominantly mouse like including mice usually attack adult rats frogs fish small birds bird eggs rarely eaten deal adult usually overcome brown rats exceptional cases known killing prey far larger england favoured prey item field fluctuations population size years abundance form diet years birds form greater proportion diet female fail breed despite small size fierce hunter capable killing rabbit times weight commonly taken rabbits usually young specimens important food source spring small scarce rabbit kits plentiful male higher proportion rabbits females overall greater variety prey linked fact larger having territorial ranges females males opportunities hunt greater diversity prey undercover avoid seen birds prey adapted pursuing prey tunnels bolt prey kill open kills small prey bite region skull neck large prey typically dies blood loss shock food abundant small portion prey eaten usually brain average daily food intake equivalent animal body weight predators competitors small preyed range predators remains found red forest eagle efficient capturing barn barred great birds prey threatening include broad winged rough legged snake species prey including black rat snake aside smaller size vulnerable predation lacks black predator mark tail areas species compete prey manages avoid competition living areas feeding smaller prey capable entering smaller holes actively avoids encounters female likely stop foraging presence smaller size allows quickly escape holes diseases parasites known include species catch nests prey species known include minor birds known include commonly infected adults found nasal damage skull evidence detrimental effects heavily infested animals distribution habitat distribution encompassing europe north_africa asia parts northern north_america occurs mainly places found introduced new_zealand malta crete islands west_africa found europe islands including azores britain ireland major mediterranean islands occurs islands japan islands russia occupies similar type habitat wet places found fields open woodland rocky areas parks gardens altitudes metres conservation status wide range large total population listed international union conservation nature concern chosen habitat areas coarse vegetation regions numbers decreasing changes agricultural practices altogether population trend thought steady relatively common abundant north_america thought rare southeastern united_states subject considerable variations numbers areas main prey liable large population fluctuations years population numbers rise fold slump prey scarce following years folklore mythology ancient believed good districts women suffered having washed heads water drawn overnight assume previously water mirror refrain mentioning animal fear destroy clothes similarly popular southern greece previously bride transformed bitter animal destroy wedding dresses jealousy according elder animal capable killing monster fatal thing tried success kings desired body killed true pleased nature animal thrown hole easily known soil infected destroys dies struggle nature self believed kill giant rushing mythology credited great wisdom courage mythical hero wished accomplish task generally change according matthew witch hunter general english civil war


blue blue called common white large species placed genus family close taxonomic relationship black blue known subspecies broad muscular heavy appearance distinctive robust muzzle young blue born brown begin adult age months adults range deep slate bluish gray light gray grayish brown sexes possess pair large curved horns blue feeding primarily short grasses forms loose animals fast runners extremely wary mating season begins end rainy season single usually born period half months remains mother months time joins juvenile herd blue found short grass plains bordering bush covered southern eastern africa thriving areas wet arid year east african populations blue long distance migration seemingly timed coincide local patterns rainfall grass growth blue native kenya south_africa today extinct successfully reintroduced southern limit blue range orange river western limit bounded lake victoria kenya blue widespread introduced private game farms reserves reason international union conservation nature natural resources iucn rates blue concern population estimated half million population trend stable taxonomy naming blue described english naturalist william john gave scientific shares genus black placed family animals generic derives greek words beard flowing hair specific originates greek word means bull common blue refers conspicuous blue coat alternative originates animals people native tribe southwestern africa blue black currently classified genus previously placed separate genus study undertaken understand evolutionary relationships species found close phylogenetic relationship diverged million years ago subspecies subspecies thomas eastern white found gregory rift valley south equator range extends northern central kenya restricted valley animals plateau region central occurs north river east central subspecies extinct western white found northern southern kenya range extends west gregory rift valley bay lake victoria blue common found southern africa range extends south_africa north orange river southwestern south river southern hybrids blue known black differences social behaviour habitats historically prevented occur species confined area offspring usually fertile study hybrid animals dam nature reserve south_africa revealed relating teeth horns bones skull study reported increase size hybrid compared parents hybrid animals highly deformed radius fused evolution number blue studied male female female pair large found studied male large found similar female size morphology rest large minute species evolved million years ago black believed diverged blue distinct species million years ago mid late pleistocene fossil evidence suggests blue common cradle past apart eastern africa fossils commonly found description blue exhibits sexual males larger darker females blue typically head body length average height species males weigh females seldom exceed characteristic feature long black tail length features markings species symmetrical sexes average life span years wild years captivity oldest known captive individual lived years broad muscular heavy appearance distinctive robust muzzle young blue born brown begin adult age months adults range deep slate bluish gray light gray grayish brown flanks slightly lighter ventral surface dark brown vertical stripes mark area neck giving sexes appear long stiff thick jet black colour tail face western eastern white common stick scent clear oil present larger males females terms skull length smallest subspecies blue western white subspecies eastern white race subspecies possess white beard beard black common longest found shortest female western white horns sexes possess pair large horns shaped like extend outward curve upward inward males horns long horns females long despite blue possesses characteristics instance horns resemble female african buffalo heavy build large appearance diseases parasites blue susceptible foot mouth disease isolated blue scientist walter causes death vary year year drought young aged females likely die occasion estimated deaths caused disease predation remainder result accidents animal host number different parasites study blue found hosts thirteen species larvae flies species seven species larvae tongue worm prevalent times year generally larvae occur nasal passages respiratory blue migrate brain compared blue resistant species ecology behaviour blue active morning late afternoon hottest hours day spent rest extremely wary animals run speeds mph waving tails heads analysis activity blue national park showed animals devoted half total time rest grazing moving walking little social interactions variations different age sex groups usually rest close kind loose males form bachelor distinguished juvenile groups lower activity animals male join bachelor mating season territorial age years noisy notably western white active tolerate close square kilometre plain accommodate territories temporary nature fewer half male population hold permanent territories general blue rest groups thousands night minimum distance individuals mothers remain contact major prey item lions mark boundaries territories scent territories advertised behaviour physical marking body language territorial male includes standing tall erect posture ground frequent rolling sound produced competing territory males loudly ground motion horns perform displays aggression diet blue feeding primarily short grasses commonly grow light soils found plains animal broad mouth adapted eating large quantities short grass feeds day night grass scarce eat foliage shrubs trees commonly associate plains eat upper grass canopy exposing lower material prefer possible likes drink twice daily regular requirement water usually inhabits moist areas available water sources despite survive arid desert sufficient water water storing roots study habits animals found feeding dominant grasses area time spent grazing increased dry season choice diet remained dry wet season animals selective reproduction male blue sexually mature years age females conceive sixteen months adequately females start breed year later mating season lasts weeks end rainy season means animals good condition having feeding highly new grass growth conception rate high mating season typically begins night moon suggesting lunar cycle influences breeding time production peaks males resulting increased calling territorial behaviour activities sexually excited males stimulate female come stake territories compete females males exhibit rivalry clash face bent knees exchange horn elaborate individual displays rivalry dig horns ground dominance established male attempts lure female domain courtship low stretch common activities male soon attempts mount female receptive female holds tail stands takes place repeated times place twice times minute male eats rests female present territory time female keeps close male head season female visit territories mate different males gestation period half months born week time period female birth middle herd typically middle day allows time newborn steady feet night falls predators active weigh birth usually stand minutes birth escape predation remain close mothers significant time continue year nearly leave mother months form juveniles large female offspring survive month compared survival rate smaller distribution habitat blue native kenya south_africa today extinct successfully reintroduced blue mainly found short grass plains bordering bush covered southern eastern africa thriving areas wet arid found habitats vary areas dense bush open woodland trees common areas blue tolerate arid regions long water supply available normally distance southern limit blue stops orange river western limit bounded lake victoria kenya range include temperate rarely found altitudes excess exception small population occurs valley absent parts southern country particularly present woodlands year east african populations blue long distance migration seemingly timed coincide annual pattern rainfall grass growth timing migration directions vary considerably year year end rainy season migrate dry season areas response lack drinking water rainy season begins months later animals trek wet season range threats conservation blue preyed lions african wild dogs predation main cause death prone disease lead decline numbers major human related factors affecting populations include large scale drying water sources expansion settlements diseases domestic cattle sleeping sickness transmitted animals toll erection fences traditional migratory routes wet dry season ranges resulted mass death events animals cut water sources areas better grazing seeking study factors influencing populations ecosystem revealed populations undergone drastic decline individuals years later major cause thought expansion agriculture led loss wet season grazing traditional breeding ranges total number blue estimated population trend overall stable numbers national park increased population density ranges km2 national parks km2 crater national park plentiful blue introduced number private game farms reserves areas reasons international union conservation nature iucn rates blue concern numbers eastern white seen steep decline numbers current level probably animals causing concern relationship humans major southern eastern africa blue plays important role ecosystem main prey item large predators lion animals draws tourists area observe big game major economic importance region traditionally blue hunted hides meat skin making good quality leather flesh coarse dry hard blue affect human beings negatively compete domestic livestock grazing water transmit fatal diseases like cattle cause animals spread flies ancient carved slab slate depicting animal similar blue discovered dating found religious political capital upper egypt time evidence animal occur north_africa associated ancient


brown brown known red brown red medium sized species brown family found south eastern madagascar like species moving occasionally tree tree like brown lives social groups primarily eats fruit active day night exhibits sexual demonstrate female dominance species listed vulnerable international union conservation nature iucn threatened primarily habitat loss taxonomy true genus brown type belonging family collectively classified originally listed subspecies common brown brown promoted species status biological anatomy physiology adult brown reach head body length tail length overall length average body weight making medium sized form sexual exhibited brown following table illustrates coloration differences sexes wild brown range overlap brown rarely confused species captivity easily confused gray headed similar coloration male brown distinguished cream colored male gray headed white beard females species nearly indistinguishable genetic analyses support species status taxa ecology found tropical moist lowland forests southeastern madagascar brown occurs west forests south north river river boundary ranges brown gray headed north brown seen conservation zone saint private reserve national park environment brown acts seed especially critical dispersal large seeded fruiting trees range evidence relationships instead remaining seed tree species following extinction larger birds behavior little known species thought primarily eat fruit like true active day night year trait seen members genus research suggested related needs leading factor behavior specific hours activity pattern shift based lunar seasonal changes day length previous studies ruled effects predators expression trait instead pointed fruit availability fiber intake important factors brown tends live social groups multi male multi female groups ranging size seven population estimated individuals km2 appears common range females birth offspring october december male involvement young observed female dominance common trait species uncommon true observed species brown hybrid linear hierarchy adult female dominance presence behavior additionally stress levels measured self directed behaviors decrease increase position individuals social group reconciliation able bring stress levels conservation status brown listed vulnerable iucn red list assessment greatest threat habitat loss slash burn agriculture production hunted food captured local pet trade populations brown successfully sustained captivity safeguard extinction small group brown introduced 1980s private reserve introduced red fronted


european european known black forest names species native western north_africa generally dark brown colour pale dark mask face occasionally colour including occur compared fellow members genus shorter compact body built skull known having characteristic ability particularly foul liquid mark territory territorial animals sex frequently sharing home ranges like european pregnancy occurs directly mating induced usually gives birth early summer litters consisting kits independent age months european feeds small birds amphibians reptiles occasionally prey piercing brain teeth stores living future consumption european originated western_europe middle pleistocene closest living relatives black european species produce fertile offspring hybrids species tend sterile distinguished parent species larger size valuable european sole ancestor years ago purpose hunting species historically viewed negatively humans british isles especially persecuted synonymous early english literature modern times represented popular culture compared rare british mammals behaviour persist rural areas classed iucn concern wide range large numbers etymology naming word appeared norman conquest england written second largely self explanatory origin unclear possibly derived french meaning chicken likely reference species fondness variant old english meaning foul middle english species referred meaning foul reference strong old french called derived low german scandinavian smell later corrupted english word word root word north american fisher named dutch colonists america noted similarities species countries new_zealand term taken wider use refer related creatures especially farmed fur article society review contested european status animal indigenous british isles account scarce fossil record linguistic evidence unlike native british mammals welsh derived middle english celtic origin welsh names invasive species european rabbit deer derived middle english derived old french respectively middle english old french origin mentioned anglo saxon welsh literature prior norman conquest england recorded mention species welsh language occurring 14th century english tale contrast welsh word pine date 10th century welsh laws possibly earlier northern england local indigenous names english names probably animal british list names southern england generally referred north host including endless spelling variations poll cat etc charles identified different versions area latin indigenous names referring smell scientific derived species foul smell latin translates english word derived evolution earliest true appeared late period considerably smaller present form indicating evolved relatively late period oldest modern fossils occur germany britain france date middle pleistocene european closest relatives black thought shared common ancestor european adapted direction specialised skull structure european likely diverged million years ago based indicate younger date years closely related european morphological molecular studies confirm european sole ancestor connection thought contributed creation mentioned aristotle greek roman writers century use rabbits accurate descriptions come released islands control rabbit populations european rabbit native peninsula northwest africa european likely regions european similar size portions point dark coloured indistinguishable wild cousins skull smaller volume narrower compared european smaller brain comparison mediterranean likely derive theory mediterranean origin strengthened tolerant cold northern subspecies fertile producing litters annually opposed unlike subspecies largely solitary readily live social groups slower movements hardly makes use anal scent overall represents form subspecies seven subspecies recognised physical description build appearance european typical members genus generally compact short legged elongated body european tail short body length eyes small dark brown hind toes long partially weakly curved long claws claws strongly curved partially retractable measure length feet moderately long robust members genus skull relatively coarse massive strong short broad facial region strongly developed projections comparison similarly sized teeth strong large massive relation skull size sexual skull apparent lighter narrower skull female weaker projections running complex twisting fast mountain man sensory organs developed unable distinguish colours dimensions european vary greatly species conform rule pattern size variation follow trend size increase east west axis males measure body length females tail measures males females adult males middle europe weigh grams females grams known specimens exhibiting likely products fur winter fur european brownish black brown intensity determined colour long guard hairs flanks dark tone bright whitish yellowish yellowish shows lightly coloured equally visible different parts body completely covered dark guard hairs flanks defined contrasts sharply general tone throat lower neck chest abdomen black brown limbs pure black black brown tail black brown completely lacking light area eyes black brown longitudinal stripe similar colour nose ears dark brown edged white summer fur short sparse coarse lacking winter fur weakly developed summer fur brownish grey grey colour good swimmer fur cold water american minutes cool water temperature faster minutes found major dark fur black mask colour include typical individuals usually bright reddish guard hairs trunk bright reddish reddish brown black guard hairs absent lower body head rare cases guard hairs light indistinguishable pale yellow cases animal light golden yellow colour behaviour social territorial unlike european settled way life definite home ranges characteristics home ranges vary according season habitat sex social status breeding females settle areas breeding males juveniles fluid ranges mobile males typically larger territories females uses den sites distributed territory occasionally abandoned european red fox rabbit areas intense activity winter use farm buildings daytime resting sites territorial small having known share territories members sex evidence marking territories sparse like usually silent animal fiercely angered distressed low cry mate offspring reproduction development european seasonal courtship rituals mating season male grabs female neck stimulate hour species male mating females unlike small induced pregnancy occurs immediately mating gestation period lasts days litters usually born early june litter typically consists kits birth kits weigh measure body length blind deaf age week kits covered silky white fur replaced brown coat age begins weeks age permanent kits independent months females protective young known confront humans approaching closely litters ecology diet european diet consists mouse like followed amphibians birds frequent prey item soviet_union common rarely red backed large river water common prey spring winter amphibians especially grass frogs green important food items selective predation male frogs decreases occurrence frog populations amphibians little value grows fat matter central europe diet winter months dominated birds including grey chickens seasonal changes activity rhythm activity main prey species rarely preyed include european grass snakes insects british isles commonly kills brown rats european rabbits capable killing larger prey reported frequently wait catch took feeds lengthy unable breathe air regular intervals ice breathing holes unlike readily eats including large european hunts prey stalking seizing teeth killing animal bite neck killing method perfected practice food particularly seasonal frogs kill bites base skull keeping fresh later consumption normally shy humans naturalist alfred mentions exceptional case attacked baby winter period live prey scarce european raid feed honey enemies competitors preyed red wild domestic cats european record attacking european dragging suffers areas invasive american occurs species feeds species frequently european known drive wetland habitats areas european species overlap greatly choice food tends consume household foods birds mammals frequently record beech killing european prey smaller parts british isles abandoning domestic led living wild likely brought britain norman conquest england late fourteenth century currently impossible distinguish pure hybrids dna analysis forms closely related separated modern genetic methods animals typically distinct white throat patch white feet white hairs interspersed fur typically generation develop wild parents fear humans left mothers critical period weeks age occasionally supposed advertised superior pure purposes actual likely willing dogs likely kill quarry outright simply flush able rare european producing offspring termed russian words rare wild typically occurs european declining hybrid poorly defined facial mask yellow fur ears grey yellow long dark brown guard hairs fairly large male attaining peak sizes known european weighing measuring length female larger female european weighing measuring length majority hybrids bearing greater similarities hybrids swim like food like difficult breed males sterile females fertile captive hybrid created soviet zoologist originally bred fur valuable parent species breeding hybrids declined european populations decreased studies ecology free ranging hybrids upper reaches river indicate hybrids stray aquatic habitats readily pure tolerate parent species entering territories hybrid larger size especially male deter intrusion summer period wild hybrids similar feed predominantly frogs winter overlap eat larger proportion summer rely heavily frogs rarely european asian north american black produce fertile offspring european hybrids rare despite areas hybrids recorded southern ukraine trans range history conservation european widespread western russian federation absent ireland northern scandinavia balkans eastern adriatic coast occurs marginally northern greece found morocco mountains sea level form introduced britain mediterranean islands new_zealand british isles extreme examples fact remains england wales consistently persecuted greater intensity species level persecution effect overall numbers purely satisfy local vengeance best example species level killing difference population developing sporting estates administered coup britain european regarded predator prior introduction wire eliminating considered option protect stock kent example parishes paid extended 19th century time single individuals recorded usually gaps years kingdom scotland reign david export duty imposed fur raised species held important place scotland fur markets annual fur fair sold following year contemporary account described skins drug market number sold decreased decline halted decrease intensity year interval second world wars modern times european found rural wales england south somerset east species reintroduced cumberland 1970s 1980s current status populations unknown modern distribution unclear certain extent presence hybrids aside factors aiding recovery british populations include increase rabbit populations persecution population considered viable mid-1990s european afforded national european protection listed schedule wildlife countryside act regulation conservation natural habitats regulations listed annex habitats directive survey carried vincent wildlife trust found spread areas east south yorkshire seen years naturalist chris termed spread great natural france european present france territories state decline decades listed concern france red data book european rare numerous regions alps region population undergone decline 1990s largely consequence poisoning campaigns study decline region indicated species little chance surviving considered rare sporadic districts absent example populations decreasing disappeared numbers declining distributed brittany present numbers dropping 1950s rare mountain regions normandy speed decline somewhat decreased alpine range limited altitude species relies mediterranean climates thrive especially abundant absent eastern area apparently restricted valleys rivers largest populations occur northern france central france areas holds largest record observations common champagne soviet_union western border european range soviet_union begins mouth danube south approximately northwest finnish border north northern border extends point southeast bay lake passing west south passing east suddenly directly north passing particular near western shore reaches border line turns northeast crossing reaching white sea border reaches attaining species northerly range river mouth border abruptly returns south approaching closer upper near northern border goes upper river descends southwards eastern range apparently extends embracing west probably absent southern occurs southern border range starts west danube mouth extends eastward coast black_sea reaching mouth moves shore sea goes mouth don mouth lower course don range passes region western middle european absent instead encountered extreme lower rivers border goes north river returns east somewhat south bend passing reaching latitude range soviet_union expanded northwards example northwestern southern finland prior world war russian_empire produced global skins harvesting russia increased substantially october revolution coincided western_europe decline numbers russian population decreased somewhat second world war hunting subsequently discouraged acknowledged limit harmful populations diseases parasites european suffer common cold pneumonia occasionally affected commonly broken teeth occasions fatal jaw head neck mainland europe carrier carrying high localized areas known include species common found large numbers neck ears common species biting known carried include relationships humans hunting fur use european hunting favourite sport scots hunted night majority deaths caused humans accidental having caused steel traps set rabbits hunting popular diversion midland mid-19th century britain hunted early february late april mixed packs hunting dogs welsh hills border country scottish john tucker creator captured wild male test soviet_union hunted chiefly late autumn early winter guns hunting dogs traps wooden season hunters rarely catch species constitute important element soviet commercial hunting usually caught incidentally european valuable fur bearer valuable skin primarily production jackets coats particularly suited women clothing tail making disadvantage skin unpleasant difficult remove european commercially farmed fur great_britain 1920s elevated economic importance finland popular united_states canada import laws non native species gain economic importance ussr unlike european easy breed captivity according european difficult superior form rats holes greater agility prone attempting escape finished rats easily kits successfully raised mother cats according owen welsh dictionary early irish settlers northern wales kept pets attempts european generally hampered adult nervous disposition generation hybrids conceived improve produce animals personalities similar wild parents culture british isles historically negative reputation references early english literature usually synonymous prostitutes generally immoral people case shakespeare merry wives windsor door witch baggage rural areas belief ears sleeping sheep kill men jumping biting regions widely believed farmers allowing nest chicken ensure animal kill gratitude instead kill cases kill attributed animals guests farms wales widely believed migrate large numbers spring great feed breeding frogs later proven incorrect climate wet european hold large frog populations compared british received little exposure popular media study conducted rural school children showed surveyed children identify photographs correctly identified appears key character short story gallery


large genus extant member lesser largest world close relatives guinea pigs rock related native south_america inhabits dense forests lives near bodies water highly social species found groups large individuals usually lives groups individuals threatened species hunted meat hide thick skin trade etymology common derived complex leaf slender eat agent meaning eats slender leaves grass scientific comes greek water pig classification phylogeny lesser belong subfamily rock living extinct relatives previously classified family molecular phylogenetic studies recognized close relationship supporting placement genera subfamily classifications incorporate new taxonomy continue use living genus closest fossil relatives taxonomy fossil state recent years diversity fossil substantially reduced largely recognition teeth strong variation shape life individual instance material referred genera seven species basis differences shape thought represent differently aged individuals single species description heavy barrel shaped body short head reddish brown fur upper body turns yellowish brown underneath sweat found surface portions skin unusual trait animal lacks hair guard hair differs little hair adult grow length stand tall typically weigh average recorded weights wild female brazil wild male dental formula slightly feet tails hind legs slightly longer toes rear feet toes feet blunt nostrils eyes ears near heads females slightly heavier males ecology semi aquatic mammals found countries south_america chile live densely forested areas near bodies water lakes rivers swamps ponds marshes flooded savannah rivers tropical forest flourished cattle home ranges averaging hectares acres high density populations captivity found similar habitats world sightings fairly common florida breeding population confirmed spotted central coast california diet predation grazing mainly grasses aquatic plants fruit tree bark selective feed leaves species disregard species surrounding eat greater variety plants dry season fewer plants available eat grass wet season switch abundant dry season plants eat summer lose value winter consumed time jaw perpendicular food grinding forth meaning eat source gut flora help digest grass forms normal diet extract maximum protein food food similar cow case teeth grow continually compensate constant wear eating grasses cheek teeth grow continuously like cousin guinea pig capacity supplemented captivity reported develop disease sign life span years average live years wild favourite food jaguar eagle preferred prey social organization live commonly found groups average individuals adult males seven adult females remainder juveniles groups consist individuals dry season animals gather available water sources males establish social bonds dominance general group census dog like threatened females young types scent located snout anal sexes males larger use anal frequently anal males lined hairs form scent coated hairs released contact objects like plants hairs longer lasting scent mark scent mark object walking marking anal spread scent females usually mark scent mark frequently males overall females mark wet season addition objects males scent mark females reproduction female scent changes subtly nearby males begin pursuit addition female alert males nose mating female advantage mating choice mate water female want mate certain male leave water dominant males highly protective females usually prevent subordinates larger group harder male watch females dominant males secure significantly subordinate subordinate males class responsible dominant male lifespan sperm longer gestation days usually produces litter babies produce single litter birth land female rejoin group hours delivering newborn join group soon mobile week young eat grass continue female group weeks young form group main group observed species breeding peaks april venezuela october november brazil activities land capable running fast horse equally home water excellent swimmers remain completely submerged minutes ability use evade predators sleep water keeping water temperatures increase day water late afternoon early evening spend lot time mud rest midnight continue dawn conservation human interaction considered threatened species population stable south american range areas hunting reduced numbers hunted meat areas killed humans grazing competition livestock areas farmed effect ensuring wetland habitats protected survival aided ability breed rapidly adapted south_america found areas parks live years captivity gentle usually allow humans pet hand feed physical contact normally discouraged rocky mountain spotted fever european association tasked park sussex monitor captive populations europe includes information deaths movements related farmed meat skins south_america meat considered unsuitable eat areas areas considered important source protein parts south_america especially venezuela meat popular lent holy week catholic_church previously gave special allows consumption generally forbidden illegal states occasionally kept pets united_states image features coin


called spiral native southern africa species family genus considered genus described george french body length weighs coat brown females juveniles grows dark brown slate grey tinged blue adult males females young males white stripes sides males horns long yellow tipped exhibits highest sexual spiral mainly active early morning late afternoon generally day temperatures night rainy season feeds foliage fruits grasses sufficient fresh water shy animal prefers water holes open spaces signs individuals areas overlap cautious creatures old males live single sex mixed family groups individuals found inhabit dense dry woodlands main predators lion leopard cape hunting dog birds hunt juveniles mating peaks spring autumn males females sexually mature months age respectively socially immature years old period seven months single born range includes south_africa introduced reintroduced extinct 1950s population stable listed concern international union conservation nature iucn principal threats species habitat loss resulting human settlement males highly prized game animals africa taxonomy naming described george french english naturalist scientific attributed said gray named species father george south_australia according article international code nomenclature international commission nomenclature insufficient state gray author comes known use word origin similar word second taxon branch family tree lesser line remained separate considerable time million years placed genus proposed american zoologist proposed lesser widely recognized established valid genus peter accepted genus considered species university colleagues carried mitochondrial analysis species data compared results showed tribe lesser basal phylogeny followed basis mitochondrial data studies estimated lesser separated sister clade million years ago hand nuclear data shows lesser form clade collectively separated sister clade million years ago evolution male female 14th occurs studies shown mountain sharing common actually distant relatives fossil evidence suggests separate species end million years ago genetic evidence suggests early lesser remained separate long crossing physical description spiral middle sized considered sexually typically head body length male stands female tall males weigh females weigh life years coat brown females juveniles grows dark brown slate grey adult males bluish females young males white vertical stripes sides markings visible face throat flanks stripes reduced absent older males males females white eyes long tail white underside sexes dorsal crest hair running right head end tail males line hair chest belly males horns horns long yellow tipped twists similar larger long resemble round spherical feet leave scent walks condition varies sexes according study attributed differences body sizes noted stress old adults died numbers males attempt blood sampling found levels varied stress parasites study game reserves revealed presence species genera species members genera research discovered new parasites host race species species species stage species species dominant study blood samples south african revealed presence borne blood parasites methods chain reaction reverse line dominant parasites species species species species fly species recovered study game reserves northeastern additional individuals found hosts stages development immature stages adult males served hosts number adult females isolated wild caught diagnosed found akin based biological morphological molecular data diseases suffer january june succumbed disease main symptoms inability rise failure premature death cells living tissue found skeletal muscle analysis juveniles acute cardiac muscle adults cardiac muscle report published entitled observations captive wild animals british isles noted diagnosed captive zoo affected disease viral disease considered ecology behavior active mainly early morning late afternoon day temperatures night rainy season rest thick bushes hot hours day shy cautious nature like remaining hidden coming open sightings wild water holes days shy come sight tourists groups according sex mixed usually drink water group consists individuals study national park showed observations groups rest consisted seen broke formed generally adult males remain females remain near mothers offspring relationships female considered relatively closer males alert wary nature use sharp high dog like bark warn group danger feature mainly females react alarm calls found react calls main predators lion leopard cape hunting dog birds predators juveniles diet diet consists foliage fruits flowers twigs rainy season feed fresh grass need regular intake water choose places water source nearby adapted live areas seasonal availability water study showed fed mainly early morning late afternoon feed night rainy season study game reserve game reserve focused habits showed varied diet content diet contained lesser figure diet grew richer fiber content proteins reverse occurred rainy season rainy season arrived species took diet mainly consumed diet contained proteins fibers study find sexual influenced foraging habits vegetation surveys conducted end feeding bout found females spent equal periods time foraging habitats males preferred sand forest differences noted males ate woody species greater average height females fed low layer concluded differences resulted varying energetic demands according diverse body sizes differing reproductive strategies reproduction breeds year mating peaks spring autumn reason unknown attributed feeding habits animal females reach sexual maturity months age males months socially immature years old sexually mature male begin generation sperm study males months old showed active reach length female cycle days long males mate female days cycle allows hours cycle male enters females herd mating makes display raising white dorsal crest lowering horns moving animals males fight dominance mating study kidney fat studied understand influence social class reproduction kidney fat index technique kidney removed weighed fat excluding fat resultant difference fat kidney fat animal male vary season pregnant females higher non pregnant ones significant increase corpus gestation gestation seven months single born weighing birth takes place generally away sight predators places remains hidden days mother nurses regular intervals remains mother birth males drive away mother habitat distribution inhabits dense lowland woodlands mainly southern eastern south_africa chooses places good quality provision fresh water inhabit lush green river country natural range stretches southeast africa lower valley eastern south_africa geographic distribution based genetic variation according study south_africa great difference marked gene frequencies mitochondrial dna analysis revealed presence unique individuals location conclusions geographic variation distribution pattern based habitat today found south african protected areas game reserves game reserve game reserve game reserve national park according statistics occur private land currently efforts retain populations national park national park thrive national park observed showing signs territories overlap extensively let sex home ranges males approximately equal females km2 area threats conservation major threats population habitat loss agriculture cattle grazing contributed population loss species currently concern population considered stable iucn cites total population individuals recent estimates south_africa protected areas numbers fallen population today total population protected national parks south african protected areas game reserve game reserve game reserve national park occur private land occur south_africa high demand adult males game trophies