cotton cotton small new world monkey weighing smallest cotton easily recognized long white crest extending forehead shoulders species found tropical forest edges secondary forests northwestern colombia diet includes insects plant important seed tropical ecosystem cotton displays wide variety social behaviors particular groups form clear dominance hierarchy dominant pairs breed female normally gives birth twins uses prevent females group breeding extensively studied high level cooperative care behaviors communication cotton sophisticated shows evidence structure language feature acquired cotton thought caught exported use research cites gave highest level protection international trade banned species risk large scale habitat destruction lowland forest northwestern colombia cotton found reduced previous area currently classified critically endangered world individuals left wild taxonomy naming common names cotton cotton headed english comes white hair spans head flows past neck spanish commonly called german speaking areas cotton commonly known literally monkey likely resemblance hungarian composer piano species described chose species means swollen foot species particularly large feet unknown chose selected names mythology particular rationale mythical greek king philip performed taxonomic analysis species based fur coloration patterns morphology ear size classified subspecies subsequent analyses cooper later grooves consider types separate species researchers closely related white view supported analysis dental morphology skinner found similarities morphological traits considered species white headed thought diverged forms supported morphological considerations transition juvenile adulthood fur coloration patterns change significantly similar species proposed separation species happened pleistocene height river time area covered sea created geographic barrier caused species process today species principally separated river physical characteristics cotton family weighs average head body length tail slightly longer species sexually male female similar size weight members subfamily including species sharp nails big toes flat nails common resemble claws help movement trees cotton long crest consisting white hairs forehead flowing shoulders skin face black gray white bands located eyes bands continue edge face jaw generally divided groups facial characteristics faced faced bare faced cotton fine white hairs covering face fine appear naked considered bare faced lower teeth longer creating appearance like cotton teeth jaw like new world cotton fur covering body hands feet borders nostrils brown arms legs whitish yellow inner upper tail reddish orange fur distributed varying body region zone base tail lower forward region higher individuals stripes fur striking coloration cotton forehead mouth habitat distribution cotton restricted small area northwest colombia rivers south east atlantic coast north river west live brazil habitat destroyed historically entirety area suitable cotton habitat loss survives fragmented parks reserves important areas cotton national park consists hectares primary secondary forest cotton found primary secondary forests humid tropical forests south range tropical dry forests north seldom found altitudes metres encountered metres prefers lower levels tropical forests found foraging ground canopy adapt forest fragments survive relatively disturbed habitats dry forests pronounced seasons december april dry heavy rainfall occurs august november flood forest floor range annual rainfall varies ecology cotton diet mainly fruit animal material includes insects plant occasionally reptiles amphibians small body size high food passage rate diet high quality high energy common cotton species hunts insects variety methods stealth chasing exploring holes turning leaves act seed tropical ecosystems larger eat larger seeds eat smaller ones expelled seeds higher rate larger seeds help expel parasites cotton sleeps social group trees foliage cover group leaves sleeping tree hour dawn spends day foraging resting travelling species thought rise late increases speed foraging travelling dusk avoid nocturnal predators main predators include snakes cotton extremely looking potential predators group resting individual moves apart acts alert group sees threat cotton live long years captivity lifespan wild averages years behavior social systems cotton highly social typically lives groups individuals reach members small groups tend size composition individuals clear dominance hierarchy present party head group breeding pair male female pair typically reproductive relationship serve group dominant leaders dominant pairs breeding pair groups female generally authority breeding male group members leading pair offspring immigrant adults live cooperate groups social grouping cotton arise predation pressure cotton exhibit behavior benefits members group known engaging cooperative breeding group subordinate adults help offspring dominant pair dominant female likely birth twins expensive pair raise young prevent younger subordinate females group breeding dominant female uses sexual behavior delays unrelated males join group release females reproductive suppression result female group pregnant successful cooperation cooperative breeding effort caring dominant breeders offspring shared group members parents siblings immigrant adults share young duties breeding pair young duties include carrying protecting feeding engaging play behavior group young cotton display high levels parental investment infant care males particularly paternal greater involvement females despite male female prefer contact proximity mothers fathers males invest additional support offspring form courtship win favor group dominant female evidence indicates time spent carrying male overall frequency female group breeds heavy investment infant care ensures offspring survive independence accordingly cotton bear excessive costs care group young male carriers especially paternal carriers large energetic costs sake group young burden cause male cotton tops lose total body weight large weight loss occur reduced food intake infant carrying foraging ability carrier trend male carrier weight loss decreased food intake contrast dominant female period gains weight increasing food intake infant carrying duties males appears particularly cotton costs infant care fact tolerated selfish reasons costs male weight foraging ability turn promote consecutive dominant females providing offspring bearing genes additionally cooperative breeding structure cotton tops change group size parental experience time spend greater time carrying infant experienced ones smaller groups greater proportion carrying feeding infant larger groups work total care remains constant varying group size infant outcome significantly different groups differing levels experience raising offspring cooperative breeding hypothesis cotton engage young turn naturally embrace patterns behavior engage behavior acting groups caring alarm calls sharing food studies indicate cotton psychological capacity participate unclear cotton acts solely reinforcement history studies involving cotton hinted positive irrelevant researchers believe tend cooperate selfish reasons situations benefit cooperation cotton better described true captivity shown ability distinguish individuals based cooperative tendencies past behavior cotton tops ultimately use information guide future cooperation brief periods tend cause swift avoid cotton economically driven decisions based projected incentives potential spite aggression despite expansive array behaviors cotton engage great bouts spite negative punishment observed immediately start denying cooperation deny benefits captivity observed increase behavior fellow committed fully cooperation based researchers believe repeated interactions cooperative society like cotton chances individual designate group reaction observed species relative lack actions alternatively happen result response increases chances cotton watching individual perform similar action way look punishment cotton observing aggressive responses groups species cotton like specifically genus stages aggressive displays exclusively fellow belong gender displays aggression frequent females vital breeding female forcing adult females group aggression occur groups response species drastic involve sexual displays females typically employ scent marking response tactics males prone threats physical aggression scent marking cotton ways scent marking scent marking ability use separate fields threat signals indicate females developed evolutionary threats differential use markings variable signals sign territorial encounter serve reproductive signal intensity female threats generally comparable directed contrast male cotton tops considerably threatening fellow males females communication cotton bird like soft sounds high pitched calls researchers describe repertoire distinct sounds unusually sophisticated rules cleveland charles performed depth feature analysis classify cotton repertoire concluded uses simple grammar consisting variations short frequency representing varying messages longer constant frequency calls demonstrate cotton uses calls usage type given letter example calls associated finding food calls associated eating calls modified better deliver information relevant localization recipients range adults able communicate intention thought processes emotion including curiosity fear dismay warnings joy calls young language acquisition weeks cotton born fully capable producing range adult monkey despite limitation speech researchers believe language acquisition occurs early speech abilities arising times produce adult like rarely correct context remains inconsistent weeks life regardless infant cotton tops able respond appropriate ways varying contexts presented adult indicates verbal perception quickly acquired skill offspring followed closely later proper vocal observed aside inconsistent adult like cotton produce prototype differs structure seen adult range thought imitate adult speakers use differing calls contexts solely infant instance adult cotton tops known significantly reduce general alarm calling presence likely adapted adults close proximity group young attract attention predators infant dense areas additionally reduce prototype presence predators calling behavior adults danger remains unclear researchers argue young cotton able represent information regardless immature speech production confirm notion language acquisition occurs progression production showed respond adults fashion indicates adult produces indicate food preference navigating food source infant approaches adult fed use prototype calling calls finding argues idea able understand later acquire ability communicate adult general calling typical cotton combination long alarm heavily represented literature encompass range contact calls produced isolated individuals type seemingly alarm calls adding range cooperative behaviors issued presence threatening predator seen predators cotton include snakes notably hawks early observations showed cotton tops produce diverse sets alarm calls presence birds prey versus ground based predators involve production complex sequence researchers argued long calls exhibit individual differences carry information sufficient recipients determine identity discrimination language experiments theory confirmed multiple times literature individual syllables complete isolation transfer sufficient information communicate messages scientists consider intact string unit perception cotton examinations confirm cotton tops incorporate areas communication predatory threats varying recipients thought extract complex signals form communication primarily cotton tops able identity differences individuals alarm calls adults able gender determine range calls related alarm calling repertoire alarm based identification play number functional roles cotton firstly recipient able identify recognizing group able judge reliability past experience arise selective pressure able determine risk present endangered individual group additionally able signals help determine predator location especially presence second different group help confirm predator presence type flying versus ground based support recipient predator location context cotton cooperative breeding groups determining variable risk group members example recipient able determine risk young offspring mates subordinates relatives carriers etc plan subsequent actions accordingly food calls cotton makes selective specialized presence food include produced cotton approaches sorts food associated food exhibited eating believed honest signal communicating food preference cotton rapidly approaching highly favored food source behavior inform actions feeding context food source available despite research indicating food calls fellow group mates observations cotton tops quantity distribution food audience significantly alter food centered cotton seen produce food calls presence absence group members additionally response food calls directed original independent visual confirmation food source appear result primitive form communication maintain food calling behavior mentally information food recipient conservation status wild population estimated individuals adults species critically endangered listed world endangered publication lists highly endangered species released years international union conservation nature species survival commission specialist group cotton selected publication habitat destruction forest clearing main cause collapse cotton lost quarters original habitat lowland forest lives reduced historical range land large scale agricultural production cattle farming logging oil palm plantations hydroelectric projects fragment cotton natural range illegal pet trade scientific research cited factors iucn studies recently limited use species illegal capture pet trade plays major role cotton cites listed species appendix banning international trade cotton exported use research captivity cotton highly prone linked increased risk certain type cancer individuals caught exported research diseases virus benefit humans species protected international law individuals captivity sustain species critically endangered wild project started provide information support conservation cotton habitat northern colombia programs combine field research education community programs spread awareness endangered species encourage public participate protection partner status wildlife conservation network january captive cotton alexandria park alexandria louisiana died left outside overnight temperatures low individual survived


known wild cat found africa sole member genus described german naturalist christian daniel von eighteen subspecies recognised slender medium sized cat stands centimetres shoulder weighs kilograms characterised small head large ears golden yellow buff coat spotted striped black short black tipped tail longest legs cat relative body size active day night tend solitary minimal social interaction sexes establish highly overlapping home ranges square kilometres mark prey particularly rats small birds frogs insects reptiles known consume grasses uses sense hearing locate prey kill small prey leaps metres ground land prey finally kills bite neck head mating takes place different times year different parts range typically twice year area period months litter born occurs month begin hunting months juveniles leave mother months prefers areas cover tall grasses proximity water bodies wetlands rare northern africa widespread southern africa international union conservation nature natural resources iucn concern occurs protected areas range hunting prohibited regulated countries taxonomy etymology scientific sole member genus placed family species described german naturalist christian daniel von journal die der mit russian naturalist proposed genus constructed greek roots meaning slender cat derived medieval latin words deer like wolf portuguese referring recorded use dates 19th 20th centuries inspected skins identified species basis coat pattern large pronounced spots cat marked sized dots described irish naturalist william sierra british zoologist john edward gray described indian skin probably cat british zoologist commented forms considered independent species reverted eventually forms came recognised species form described skin region scottish naturalist william noted naturalist library specimen identified colleagues differed considerably common identified races northern africa phylogenetic relationships remained dispute bell classified subgenus like technical university munich grouped studies 2000s 2010s african golden cat forms according genetic study lineage came existence ancestor lineage arrived africa subspecies currently recognised authors recognize fewer study gave phylogenetic relationships follows hybrid april healthy hybrid male female domestic cat born larger typical domestic resembled father coat pattern appeared inherited domestic traits mother hybrid cat habit following owner good swimmer years savannah cats gained popularity pets description slender medium sized cat stands centimetres shoulder weighs kilograms females tend lighter head body length typically centimetres males tend females prominent characteristics include small head large ears spotted striped coat long legs black tipped tail centimetres long fact longest legs cat relative body size likely greatly elongated bones feet toes elongated unusually mobile coat basically golden yellow buff extensively marked black spots stripes spots great variation size known facial features include brownish greenish eyes white snout near ears ears large domestic cat large relative size head black white horizontal band middle whitish chin spots streaks forehead black stripes run head shoulders break rows spots white dense basal fur soft guard hairs layer fur protecting basal fur centimetres long guard hairs centimetres long neck flanks merely long face closely set ears black horizontal white band ears rotate degrees independently good sense smell hearing vision similar narrower skull lacks prominent ear african golden cat darker different features resembles build coat pattern size shares adaptations habitat jungle cat cats large sharp ears help locating prey efficiently long legs raise muddy ground water ecology behaviour active day night activity peak early morning twilight midnight active longer time cool rainy days hot midday rest groom shade bushes grasses remain cautious vicinity alert large prey animals walk kilometres night use special trails reach certain hunting areas solitary animal little social interaction mating season pairs opposite sexes stay long lasting bond appears mother cubs leave mother year old males females establish home ranges active certain regions core areas area ranges vary square kilometres prey density availability cover human interference significant factors determining size home ranges overlap extensively occupants minimal interaction aggressive encounters rare appear mutually avoid fight defend ranges behaviour involves vertical movement head contrary horizontal movement observed cats raising hair tail displaying teeth white band ears individuals mark ranges preferred paths nearby vegetation dropping way mouth grasses ground releasing tend shifting kilometres away leave range vulnerable wild dogs seek cover escape view predator close immediately flee long leaps changing direction frequently tail raised efficient frequent individual observed climbed tree height metres escape dogs like cats able high pitched hunting diet particularly rats small birds frogs insects reptiles feeds grasses facilitate act percent preyed animals weigh grams larger prey young occasionally hunted studies estimated percentage diet percent apart rats recorded frequently diet include african grass rat african mouse mice locate prey strong sense hearing kill small prey slowly stalk directed chest finally land prey receiving blow gives bite head neck immediately snakes dealt blows bites consumed moving larger prey larger birds killed sprint followed leap catch trying flee eaten slowly observed large kills consumed later dead leaves grasses typically rid internal organs eating feathers birds consuming leap reach metres ground cover horizontal distance metres cat change direction mid air appear efficient hunters study showed successful half hunting attempts regardless time hunting mother found success rate number kills hour period averaged observed rarely reproduction sexes sexually mature years old females lasts days typically occurs twice year occur times year mother loses litters observations captive suggest female enters rate marking increases males vicinity zoologist described behaviour female book east african mammals noted spray frequently holding tail vertical manner head near place marked continuously sharp short heard distance mouth face approaching male time mating takes place varies geographically peak winter end dry season crater trend generally observed range breeding season gestation lasts months following litter born place areas example dense vegetation abandoned blind birth newborn weigh nearly grams soft hair adults unclear markings eyes open thirteen days begins month birth mother brings small kills calls approaches den mother young rests notably lesser time spend twice time energy hunting disturbed mother shift secure place eventually start accompanying mother hunts months acquire permanent begin hunt leave mother months age reach sexual maturity months age life years wild years captivity habitat distribution prefers areas cover tall grasses proximity water bodies wetlands typically arid areas occur semi arid areas oak forests northern africa close mediterranean_sea occur bamboo high altitudes known occur metres sea level mount national park population density recorded individual square kilometre confined africa rare northern africa widespread southern africa range reportedly expanding northern africa known morocco reintroduced tunisia feared extinct algeria threats conservation iucn international union conservation nature natural resources lists concern animal included cites appendix major threat survival include degradation wetlands trade skins decline occurs countries western africa significance traditional medicine kill protect animals generally prey livestock occur protected areas range hunting prohibited algeria kenya morocco nigeria cape province south_africa tunisia regulations apply central african republic democratic republic sierra relationship human beings association human beings dates time ancient egypt depicted gifts traded objects egyptian art common pets europe popular americas twentieth century


known imperial largest extant wild largest threatened species plains mountain named sole extant member subgenus found kenya compared tall large ears stripes narrower lives semi arid feeds grasses survive days water differs species live long lasting social bonds male mother relationships form basis social system considered endangered population declined 1970s population stable taxonomy naming described french naturalist named president france 1880s given government traditionally species classified subgenus plains mountain fossils like found africa asia pleistocene deposits notable examples include china india central asia east africa particular similar ancestor modern arose early pleistocene appear recent placed sister taxon plains areas plains gather fertile hybrids occur description largest wild head tail tail stands high shoulder weigh differs primitive characteristics particularly like appearance head large long narrow elongated openings ears large rounded conical neck short thick muzzle ash grey black colour lips having tall erect juveniles extends length reach adulthood species black white pattern stripes narrow close set broader neck extend belly area base tail lack stripes unique born brown white brown stripes grow older evidence shown background colour dark white addition stripes serve look bigger actually disrupt outline appears stationary night shade experiments suggested stripes light way biting horse flies manner shown coat patterns studies suggest moving stripes confuse observers predators biting insects visual wagon wheel effect perceived motion inverted barber pole illusion perceived motion wrong direction ecology behaviour largely inhabits northern kenya isolated populations status south uncertain lives barren plains species intermediate arid living african wild ass water dependent plains females non territorial males use areas green short grass medium dense bush non females territorial males rely grasses nutrition commonly grasses plentiful digestive system allows lower quality necessary survive days water drink daily plentiful migrate better highlands dry season females require significantly water dig water holes defend preyed lions wild dogs addition susceptible parasites notably genus adult males live territories wet seasons stay year round water left unable establish territories free ranging known females young non territorial males large home ranges females territory territory preferring ones highest quality food water sources males compete female outside territory territorial tolerate territory female present territorial stallion keeps males bay non territorial males avoid territorial ones harassment females territorial stallion seek company stallion shows dominance arched neck high stepping dominant submit extending tail lowering heads superior chest groin described like combined rid flies parasites roll dust water mud case flies skin trees rocks objects rid like skin hair parasites perform mutual reproduction mate birth year round mating takes place early rainy seasons place august september long rains mare visit territories day mate territorial dominant ones control territories near water sources attract subordinate control territories away water greater amounts vegetation attract resident territories try subdue entering dominance rituals continue courtship large large replace sperm males useful adaptation species females mate outside territorial sneak stallion territory female associations individual males brief mating females given birth reside male long periods mate exclusively male females harassed males non ones male territory provides advantage guard males gestation normally lasts days single born newborn follow moves new mothers prevent approaching pattern scent females young gather small groups leave searching water hide vulnerable predators tend protected adult usually territorial male female stays dominant territorial male exclusive mating rights likely stallion look ensure female stays territory adapt semi arid environment longer nursing intervals wait months old start drinking water offspring mothers half year associations continue years relationship humans known europeans antiquity romans subsequently forgotten western world thousand years seventeenth century king central exported sultan turkey dutch governor century later government sent french president time animal recognised species named honor status conservation considered endangered population estimated 1970s early 21st century population lower decline estimated living wild estimated captivity captive known thrive like white oak conservation florida united_states born research underway partnership conservation centers species survival collection freezing artificial population trend considered stable legally protected kenya protected hunting ban past threatened mainly hunting skins high price world market hunting declined main threat habitat loss competition livestock cattle gather holes areas community based conservation efforts shown effective preserving habitat range protected areas protected areas include wildlife reserve wildlife sanctuary controlled hunting area sanctuary kenya important protected areas include buffalo springs national reserves private community land wildlife plateau plant introduced food supply plant invasive species replacing grass species eat food


fossil cretaceous argentina family single species known tooth lower allen formation probably age described tooth bears rows inner outer connected transverse ridges separated deep valleys pattern reminiscent similarly aged deposits argentina recognized member family families enigmatic group close relationships living mammals discovery context known fossil found negro province southern argentina locality allen formation formations rock units yielded late cretaceous fossils argentina los formations probably equally old latest cretaceous million years ago partly mammals allen formation known seven teeth represent species group primitive mammals dominates late cretaceous argentina fauna described paper colleagues named new generic combines basin located greek beast commonly mean scientific names specific derives shed collected fossils allen formation description single tooth identified lower longitudinal rows longer wide left tooth left interpreted direction lips bears right direction tongue tooth long wide corner missing row contains probably broken corner renders number uncertain transverse ridges separated deep valleys connect strongly separate fused larger separated larger valleys ones tooth triangular structure consisting low crest connects stronger crest separated relatively shallow valley connects second structure second triangle formed passing second broken away existence presumed crown pattern interrupted groove connected small depression presumably connected missing fossil relationships identified member small enigmatic group mammals cretaceous southern continents basis transverse ridges triangle crown resembles los formation previously known member family differs characters triangle narrower valley triangle curved ridges attached second form triangle tooth relatively shorter shaped valleys seen tips placed evolutionary include higher crowned controversial relationship large group mainly known northern continents repeatedly proposed identification provide additional information bearing relationships


medium sized extinct genus madagascar includes single species rarity lack sufficient skeletal remains understood extinct collectively known monkey body plans suggest terrestrial lifestyle diet similar modern extended short powerful jaw suggesting seed predator monkey considered closely related living recently extinct recent finds caused dispute possible closer relation living genetic tests reaffirmed previously presumed relationship lived open habitat central plateau south southwest regions madagascar known recent remains considered modern form died shortly arrival humans island etymology common names shares monkey come dental adaptations resemble modern african genus derived greek words meaning stout large meaning species derives greek root meaning narrow meaning jaw mouth classification phylogeny classified sole member genus belongs family family turn belongs includes species formally described lower jaw found cave southeastern madagascar von thought represented year later von described based photographs skull review turned juvenile version publication declared years later rarity skeletal remains species understood species based similarities skull teeth later thought monkey sister group living recently extinct family debate monkey closely related today monkey closely resembled teeth specialized unlike hand teeth like specialized matter settled discovery new skeletons genera like teeth recently remains found early 2000s prompted suggestion monkey closely related dna reaffirmed sister group status monkey anatomy physiology estimated weighed roughly large newer finds suggest robust like old world walked legs evidence adaptations specifically running species climbed trees lacked adaptations suspension fewer remains discovered found indicates adapted terrestrial semi terrestrial lifestyle unusual trait genera short limbs powerful build specialized likely diet thought terrestrial sent time foraging sleeping trees genera shortened hands feet adaptation walking ground face shortened adapted heavy stress monkey highly specialized teeth went specializing strong grinding expanded wore quickly like posterior acted like extend grinding surface robust facilitate crushing hard objects reduced species dental formula indicate monkey relatively large brains compared having estimated volume ecology like endemic madagascar died recently known remains considered modern form ranged central plateau south southwest regions madagascar original range overlap ecological niche shown consume plants indication lived open habitats varied diet physiology suggest like diet acting manual picking grass hands teeth adapted grinding grass seeds patterns teeth overly large indicate processed hard objects like nuts seeds making seed predator recent analysis suggests differences indicating extinct strictly hard object extinction low number finds thought rare died sooner sister taxon disappeared shortly arrival humans island large specialized terrestrial faced pressure domestic livestock introduced pigs spreading human populations cousin known record dated


spotted spotted known laughing species currently classed sole member genus native sub africa listed concern iucn account widespread range large numbers estimated individuals species experiencing declines outside protected areas habitat loss species originated asia ranged europe million years end late pleistocene spotted largest known member physically distinguished species bear like build rounded ears prominent spotted dual fewer presence pseudo female species lack external opening spotted social largest group sizes complex social social organisation unlike bearing closer resemblance respect group size structure frequency social interaction unrelated group mates social system spotted openly competitive cooperative access kills mating opportunities time dispersal males depending ability dominate clan members females provide cubs assist males display paternal care spotted society females larger males dominate spotted highly successful animal common large africa success primarily hunter capacity eat digest skin bone animal waste functional terms spotted makes efficient use animal matter african spotted displays greater hunting foraging behaviour african hunts small parties individuals large groups hunt spotted run order select individual attack selected prey chased long distance kilometres speeds spotted long history interaction humanity depictions species exist upper period carvings paintings caves species largely negative reputation western culture african folklore species regarded ugly viewed stupid powerful potentially dangerous majority western perceptions species found writings aristotle elder relatively form explicit negative occur animal depicted grave iucn specialist group identifies spotted negative reputation detrimental species continued survival captivity wild etymology discovery naming spotted scientific widely thought derived latin translates coloured reference animal fur colour proven incorrect correct spelling word sense roman sources actually comes ancient greek word derived sanskrit turn originates originally meant golden earliest recorded mention animal described mix wolf dog native classical antiquity renaissance spotted striped assumed species distinguished purely geographical physical grounds clearly distinguish account physical geographical grounds hand experience species having gotten accounts confusion persisted exact taxonomic nature family general european travelers referring wolves partly stems word linked arabic word wolf detailed hand descriptions spotted europeans come peter dutch worked dutch west india company gold coast modern day wrote woodland dogs physical descriptions match spotted german mathematician worked dutch east india company cape good hope described spotted great detail referred settlers southern africa know labelled wolves descriptions went largely unnoticed welsh naturalist thomas pennant synopsis descriptions personal experience captive specimen basis consistently spotted striped description given pennant precise included simply translating pennant text latin finally recognised separate genus local indigenous names languages africa lack species specific names example spotted striped species identical names languages species simply termed small spotted spotted termed taxonomy origins evolution unlike striped number subspecies proposed light extensive modern range spotted genuinely variable species range encompassed africa displayed large degree morphological geographic variation led equally extensive set specific gradually realised variation applied individual differences single subspecies biologist harrison demonstrated comparisons large selection spotted variation seen recognised subspecies found single population set characters standing subject high degree individual variation size subject rule fossils taken consideration species displayed greater variation modern times number named fossil species classed synonymous firm evidence species genus lacking promoted origin species arguments pleistocene taxon view defended nonetheless allowed possibility origin stance contested referred evidence spotted presence african dating early pleistocene similar age asian studies distribution indicates migration events africa phylogenetic tree fossil record exclude possibility asian origin earliest migration spotted africa began million years ago probably area spotted fossils discovered reaching east asia likely pakistan second migration spotted occurred million years ago resulted arrival europe separation african spotted southern northern population spotted migration took place million years ago starting northern african population reaching europe asia unlike african exception leopard evidence suggest spotted underwent genetic pleistocene ancestors genus diverged genus striped brown million years ago ancestors spotted probably developed social response increased pressure predators forced operate teams point evolution spotted developed sharp crushing rendered waiting prey die longer necessity case brown striped pack hunters began forming increasingly larger territories necessitated fact prey migratory long chases small territory caused clan land female dominance spotted clans adaptation order successfully compete males kills ensure milk produced cubs theory adaptation length time takes cubs develop massive jaws necessitating greater attention dominating females appearance europe china period coincided decline eventual extinction giant short faced evidence environmental change responsible likely giant short faced extinct competition spotted description anatomy spotted strong developed neck relatively rounded angular prevents attackers coming getting firm grip head wide flat blunt muzzle broad contrast striped ears spotted rounded pointed foot armed short stout blunt claws pads broad flat foot naked tail relatively short long resembles appearance unusually mammals general female spotted considerably larger male sexes pair anal open inside anal opening produce white grass strong boiling cheap soap burning detected humans metres spotted large heart close body weight giving great endurance long chases contrast lion heart makes percent body weight extinct populations distinguished modern african populations shorter longer skull spotted differs striped greater size narrower crest size spotted built dual modern species upper lower conical bone bone holding cone lower fourth spotted situated bone crushing position allows crush bone combined large jaw muscles special protect skull large forces characteristics spotted powerful bite exert pressure cm2 lbf force leopard generate jaws spotted brown bear ability free ranging observed crack open long bones measuring diameter spotted estimated bite force tip dimensions spotted largest extant member adults measure body length shoulder height adult male spotted weigh females weigh spotted tend heavier males weighing average females exceptionally large weights known estimated adult members extinct populations weighed fur fur colour varies greatly changes age unlike fur striped brown spotted consists spots stripes shorter lacking defined spinal species base colour generally pale brown yellowish grey irregular pattern spots superimposed hind quarters spots variable distinction reddish deep brown spots vary size single individuals commonly diameter distinct spot pattern present legs belly throat chest set pale barely distinct bands replace spots sides neck broad band present neck lengthened forward facing crest crest reddish brown colour crown upper face brownish save white band eyes eyes area lips portion chin limbs spotted feet vary colour light brown fur relatively sparse consists hair types moderately fine measuring long stout hairs european rock art depicting species indicates populations retained spots modern day african counterparts female female closely resembles male shaped positioned like capable erection female possesses external opening fused form pseudo pseudo traversed tip central canal female gives birth pseudo distinguished males greater thickness rounded males females base covered spines formation pseudo appears largely independent pseudo appears female pseudo stretched loses original aspects walled reduced enlarged split lips behaviour social behaviour spotted social animals live large communities referred clans consist individuals group size varies geographically prey migratory clans smaller crater prey spotted clans compact unified wolf packs closely african wild dogs females dominate males lowest ranking females dominant highest ranking males typical females remain clan large clans usually contain males typically disperse clan age years clan fusion society clan members remain forage small groups high ranking maintain position aggression directed lower ranking clan members spotted hierarchy offspring dominant females automatically adult females subordinate mother rank spotted cubs greatly dependent presence mother low ranking adults act aggressively higher ranking cubs mother absent individual spotted care young males raising young cubs able identify relatives related great males associate closely daughters unrelated cubs favour fathers acting aggressively spotted societies complex mammals remarkably similar respect group size structure competition cooperation like spotted use multiple sensory recognise individual conscious clan mates reliable recognise party rank relationships clan mates use knowledge social decision making like dominance ranks societies size aggression ally networks trait spotted parallels acquiring rank coalition rank spotted clans rare social network dynamics spotted determined multiple factors environmental factors include rainfall prey abundance individual factors include preference bond females effects include tendency close network female flexible males social bonding preferences higher ranking adult spotted tend higher length naturally live longer reproduce territory size highly variable ranging km2 crater km2 home ranges defended vocal displays scent marking boundary patrols clans mark territories special located clan range boundaries clan boundaries usually respected chasing prey observed stop dead tracks prey crosses clan range ignore clan boundaries times food shortage males likely enter clan territory females attached group leave search mate travelling clan home range typically exhibit associated fear particularly meeting accepted clan long period time wandering clan territory kills mating reproduction development spotted non seasonal birth peak occur wet season females period lasting weeks like species spotted enduring pair bonds formed members sexes mates course years males behaviour approaching females heat male partner females usually favour younger males born joined clan born older females similar preference addition preferring males long friendly prior relationships passive males tend greater success females aggressive ones spotted relatively short affair lasting minutes typically occurs night present mating process complicated male enters exits female reproductive tract pseudo directly blocked false unusual traits mating male mammals ensuring rape physically impossible female male enters female sliding beneath operation facilitated upward angle accomplished typical mating posture adopted length gestation period tends vary greatly days average length time final stages pregnancy dominant females provide developing offspring higher levels lower ranking mothers higher levels result high concentrations thought responsible extreme female behavior morphology effect rendering cubs dominant females aggressive sexually active lower ranking high ranking male cubs attempt mount females earlier lower ranking males average litter consists cubs occasionally reported males raising young giving birth difficult female females birth narrow spotted cubs largest young relative mothers weight order facilitate passage young weeks heal cubs born soft brownish black hair weigh average unique mammals spotted born eyes open long teeth long cubs attack shortly birth particularly apparent litters result death weaker kills estimated month male cubs survive grow faster achieve reproductive dominance female survivors eliminate rivals dominance clan females carry milk spotted milk highest protein content terrestrial fat content second polar bear sea cubs nurse mother months process solid food early months mothers food young females protective cubs tolerate adults particularly males approaching spotted exhibit adult early life cubs observed mark living space age month days birth able considerable speed cubs begin lose black coat develop spotted lighter coloured adults months begin exhibit hunting age months begin fully participating group hunts year spotted reach sexual maturity age years average lifespan years maximum years behaviour clan social life revolves communal den clans use particular den sites years use different year den sites simultaneously spotted dozen entrances located flat ground tunnels usually oval section wider high narrow entrance width metre small rocky areas east africa spotted use caves use resting areas daylight hours large bare patches entrances lie size adult incapable extent tunnels dug cubs smaller animals structure den consisting small underground channels likely effective anti predator device protects cubs predation absence mother spotted rarely dig having observed use abandoned usually deposited metres feet away den happen females uncommon cubs single site general form spotted den tunnel shaped end chamber sleeping breeding chamber measures metres feet width height females generally birth communal den private birth den primarily low status females order maintain continual access cubs ensure acquainted cubs communal den intelligence compared spotted shows greater relative frontal involved social behavior studies strongly suggest evolution spotted intelligence study evolutionary demonstrated spotted cooperative problem solving tests captive pairs spotted challenged ropes earn food reward successfully learning maneuvers quickly prior training experienced helped inexperienced clan mates solve problem contrast require extensive training cooperation individuals easy intelligence spotted attested dutch colonists 19th century south_africa noted suspicious particularly successfully escaping traps spotted plan hunting specific species advance observed activities scent marking setting hunt behaviour occur target prey species spotted recorded behaviour including giving alarm calls feeding enemies present frightening allowing temporarily eat peace similarly mothers alarm calls attempting attacks cubs hunting behaviour unlike large african spotted prey species african buffalo significantly avoided spotted prefer prey body mass range mode hunting medium large sized prey spotted tend select certain categories animal young animals frequently targeted old ones category significant hunting aggressive anti predator spotted tracks live prey sight hearing smell detected smell sound predators feeding daylight hours watch descending perception powerful detect sounds predators killing prey feeding distances unlike grey wolf spotted relies sight smell hunting follow prey prints travel single file small prey killed shaken mouth large prey eaten alive spotted usually hunt singly groups catch adult usually chases speeds chases usually initiated exception cows little active defence herd attempt escape taking water cases invariably catch require different hunting methods habit running tight groups aggressive defence typical hunting groups consist record killing adult chase typically tight pursuing crescent formation chases usually relatively slow average speed stallion attempt place herd falls protective formation immediately set usually chase harass stallion usually concentrate herd attempt dodge stallion assaults unlike typically react aggressively threatened unlike rarely water escaping hunting spotted usually operate prey primarily young chases adult young cover distances speeds female defend attempt distract weakness ecology diet spotted member unlike brown striped cousins spotted predator shown 1960s earliest studies demonstrate hunting abilities african wildlife showed year study populations africa spotted hunt lions later studies shown average areas africa spotted remain wildlife documentary channels spotted efficient eating prey able splinter eat largest bones able digest completely spotted digest organic components bones material consist entirely white powder hairs react readily african likely stay vicinity lion kills human settlements commonly taken medium sized prey item coming close cape buffalo rarely attacked differences habitat preference adult recorded taken occasion national park blue cape buffalo greater spotted important prey major food sources nearby area main prey national park southern principal prey spotted primary prey consists migratory resident kenya spotted prey consists save month period migrate area buffalo dominant prey items mountains grant sheep goats cattle likely preyed northern kenya west_africa thought spotted primarily occasionally attack domestic stock medium size areas common spotted feed small like buffalo african elephant records indicate spotted feed medium large sized game reserve spotted primarily prey followed buffalo thought species primarily birds reptiles primarily spotted found catch fish humans black young african elephants record killing adult national park fossil record indicates extinct european spotted primarily fed horses irish red deer deer deer wild spotted thought responsible destruction cave bear skeletons large optimal food resource especially end winter food scarce spotted consume leather articles boots belts jane recorded spotted attacking playing exterior interior fittings cars species thought responsible eating car tyres single spotted eat meat meal spotted act aggressively feeding compete speed eating fighting lions feeding intact spotted consume meat anal region open abdominal cavity pull soft organs stomach wall contents consumed eat lungs abdominal leg muscles muscles eaten carry pieces eat peace spotted adept eating prey water observed dive floating bites swallow single minutes eating group completely consume adult minutes spotted require water typically spend seconds drinking enemies competitors areas spotted lions species occupy ecological niche direct competition cases extent overlap high lions typically ignore spotted kill harassed exists common steal kills lions way lions readily steal kills spotted crater common lions largely kills stolen lions quick follow calls feeding fact demonstrated field experiments lions repeatedly approached tape recorded calls feeding played confronted kill lions spotted leave wait distance metres lions finished eating cases spotted bold feed alongside lions occasionally force lions kill occurs nighttime spotted usually prevail groups males instances seen taken routed pride males species act aggressively food stake lions charge apparent reason male lion filmed killing separate occasions eating lion predation account deaths spotted adapted pressure frequently lions enter territories experiments captive spotted revealed specimens prior experience lions act sight react scent prey smaller animals hunted spotted steal kills opportunity presents usually easily intimidated little resistance particularly males stand records male nonetheless dangerous opponents record young adult male leopard dying infection caused wounds inflicted spotted case spotted killing eating young leopard game reserve young killed leopard spotted follow packs african wild dogs order appropriate kills typically inspect areas wild dogs rested eat food remains find approaching wild dogs kill solitary approach attempt piece meat unnoticed dogs attempt operating groups spotted successful dog kills dog greater tendency assist puts advantage spotted rarely work cases dogs spotted rare wild dog packs easily repel solitary relationship species sided benefit wild dog negatively high populations spotted dominate species ranges overlap brown encounter spotted brown species spotted species typically encounter larger spotted species usually appropriate brown stand ground raise usually effect seemingly confusing spotted act occasionally attack smaller cousins similar interactions recorded spotted striped black backed striped african golden wolves feed alongside chased approach closely spotted follow wolves season wolves effective tracking catching young animals eating wolf flesh readily reported half hour eating golden wolf overall animals typically ignore food young stake spotted usually safe distance readily water catch store prey avoid infested waters communication body language spotted complex set communication afraid ears folded flat combined teeth attacked wild dogs attack head held high ears mouth closed erect high tail usually hangs neutral change position according situation high tendency flee attacker apparent tail belly attack excited tail carried forward erect tail accompany hostile encounter observed occur harmless social interaction occurs tails spotted flick tails approaching dominant animals slight tendency flee approaching dominant animal subordinate spotted walk knees submission ceremonies clan members consist individuals standing parallel facing opposite directions individuals raise hind legs area ceremonies pseudo erect males females erection usually sign submission dominance common males females said engage violent fights laughing times person think inhabitants regions let loose spotted extensive vocal range sounds ranging fast lows soft laughs loud laughs soft loud laughter sounds africa typically high pitched calls indicate fear submission loud lower pitched calls express aggression pitch laugh indicates age variations frequency notes noises convey information animal social rank compiled following table spotted calls diseases parasites spotted contract vulnerable contracted consuming infected direct infection flies known adult spotted outbreak molecular studies indicated isolated lions closely related closest virus dogs evidence spotted recorded exposure cause clinical symptoms affect individual survival longevity analyses samples showed species unlikely indicating species catches disease animals recorded spotted northern kenya species known carry species genus harmful humans carries parasites genus kenya south_africa spotted act hosts life cycles parasites start life occur adult phase found muscles range habitat population spotted distribution ranged europe peninsula remained million years remains found russian far_east presence delayed north_america causes species extinction largely unknown western_europe spotted extinction coincided decline years ago europe experienced massive loss lowland habitats favoured spotted corresponding increase mixed woodlands spotted circumstances wolves humans home forests open lands highlands spotted populations began shrink roughly years ago completely disappearing western_europe years ago earlier areas historically spotted widespread sub africa present habitats save extreme desert conditions tropical alpine mountains current distribution places especially west_africa populations concentrated protected areas surrounding land continuous distribution large areas kenya areas south_africa species semi savannah open woodland dense dry woodland mountainous forests altitude scarce absent tropical coastal areas preferred habitats west_africa include guinea absent belt dense coastal forest desert occurs growth seasonal rivers sub pro adjoining inland plateau ideal habitats spotted large including species striped brown occur greater spotted species desert semi desert regions population based systematic vary substantially individuals km2 relationships humans cultural depictions perceptions spotted cave subspecies depicted examples upper rock art france painting cave depicts outlined represented profile legs head distinguishable spotted coloration pattern specimen profile thought painting originally meant represent cave bear modified red black rock painting present cave known depicted profile limbs showing animal steep body long neck spots including flanks image cave shows outlined deeply engraved figure representing elongated neck smoothly passing animal head profile possibly engraved muzzle ear typical spotted rounded image cave shows deeply engraved figure head frontal view elongated neck profile large round eyes short rounded ears set far broad line like mouth evokes smile originally thought represent composite hybrid probable spotted based broad muzzle long neck relative depictions rock art animal lower rank animal worship hierarchy spotted appearance likely ice age hunters sought prey rival like cave lion cave bear lacked africa africa spotted usually portrayed abnormal ambivalent animal considered sly dangerous embodies physical power spotted vary mythological depictions depending ethnic group tales originate difficult know spotted specific species featured stories particularly west_africa spotted striped given names west african tales spotted dirty habits reversal normal activities negative traits depicted bad muslims challenge local exists east africa mythology portrays spotted solar animal brought sun warm cold earth culture spotted linked according folklore witch possesses referred night cattle branded invisible mark said owned truly wild non existent female spotted said owners night butter mounts witch mount rides distant lands order victims return safely home morning consider killing dangerous bond owner strong likely result witch seeking retribution order danger killed usually ears tail legs cut buried parts supposed marked brand region believed child born night crying likely grow thief area believed enable child walk early age uncommon area children wrapped clothes southern view mythical african tribe called reputed house members able transform similar myth occurs guinea executed discovered revert human form killed mythology spotted butt tricks folklore links spotted origin death tale prevents humanity achieving ensuring continue eat corpses similar tale present narrative supreme god sent mole inform humanity death fearing corpses eat prevents mole delivering message mythology links spotted separation heaven earth time humanity kept contact creator sky rope subsequently severed hungry spotted sacred animal tribes skin robes bones instruments according doctrine orthodox church animals represent sexual egyptian saint father associated tells rescued trapped pit feet gratitude mother folklore called king ascribed great power ethnic groups associate traditionally believe ancestors migrated mounts tradition highest priests ability control send punish spotted feature prominently rituals certain african cultures cult people southwest nigeria spotted mask dawn signal end ceremony spotted usually finishes meals animal associated conclusion things cult people belief spotted appears ideal ritual domain role spotted mask rituals turn complete moral integrating male principles people believe finding killed inverted plug fear struck perpetual laughter view spotted evacuate village village boundaries spotted regularly fed city inhabitants believe presence keeps bay associate mystical properties fortune telling western culture traditional western beliefs spotted traced aristotle described species potentially dangerous animal described uses noises attract dogs generation animals aristotle criticised erroneous belief spotted likely originated confusion caused female physical descriptions consistent striped elder supported aristotle depiction elaborated imitate human voices additionally wrote held high regard body parts cure different diseases protection stimulate sexual desire people author infused pagan tales spirit christian moral mystical teaching reactivated myth author compared species double minded men man woman faithful states sons israel like animal beginning served living god later given pleasure lust idols middle ages embraced descriptions elaborated animal habits invariably depict feeding human corpses illustrations largely based descriptions given aristotle animals spots markings making unlikely authors seen hand 15th 16th centuries travellers africa provided descriptions species leo repeated old concepts addition describing legs feet similar men swiss naturalist rejected belief originated confusion fish bearing adds animals category including named thought hybrid sir thomas argued supposed stating animals follow law sir walter attempt fitted extant species animal wrote hybrids wolves originated great flood references spotted referenced numerous contemporary examples english literature including shakespeare like george eastward john compares species natural historians 18th 19th centuries rejected stories recognised differences spotted striped continued focus species habits potential rob graves perceived 20th century western african stereotypes spotted green hills africa disney lion king traits comical common african depictions added western perception ugly release lion king protested animal portrayal researcher sued disney studios character organized animators visit university california field station research observe sketch captive suggested film livestock predation targeting livestock spotted primarily cattle sheep goats southern parts region target reports livestock damage observed mistaken having killed animal rate species targets livestock depend number factors including stock keeping practices availability wild prey human associated sources organic material rubbish surplus killing recorded south_africa eastern cape province attacks stock tend fewer areas livestock fences domestic dogs present study northern kenya revealed cases livestock predation occurred areas outside protection fences attacks humans grave like predators spotted typically shy presence humans highest flight distance metres african distance reduced night known follow people closely spotted prey humans modern times rare attacks humans spotted likely man eating spotted tend large specimens pair man eating responsible killing people weighed shot victims spotted tend women children sick men numerous cases africa forced trees order escape attacks occur commonly september people sleep outdoors bush fires hunting wild game difficult wrote spotted district wait dawn outside people attack opened doors spotted regularly killed african sleeping sickness slept outside camps spotted widely feared known occasionally attack people night particularly hot season people sleep outside attacks widely reported plain north mountain deaths recorded pattern continued people killed 1960s flying doctors received dozen cases attacks humans kenya news report world wide fund nature indicates people killed spotted month period stretch road near border attacks living humans rare spotted readily feeds human corpses tradition corpses left open spotted eat corpse rejected seen having wrong liable cause social disgrace uncommon bodies covered fat blood slaughtered reported feed extensively corpses victims attempted coup red terror human corpses develop bold living people attacks people southern increased second civil war human corpses readily available urban parts africa spotted begun frequent metropolitan areas groups clans animals menace capital estimated thousand resident survive rubbish tips feral dogs cats attacks humans homeless baby boy killed mother camped near hotel animals reportedly seen alongside fence bordering british embassy compound december organised killed occupied near city centre hunting use traditional medicine spotted hunted body parts use traditional medicine amusement sport rare species generally considered attractive fossil evidence humans middle pleistocene europe presumably consuming spotted rare modern africa tribes known eat unusual kinds meat generally flesh authors scramble africa attested despite physical strength spotted poses danger hunters captured case native refused touch usually problem skins considered attractive tail medicinal magical purposes animals body harvested medicine nose tips tails traditional medicine traditional use spotted body parts particularly hunters typically ritual killing hunters traditionally treat spotted kill respect deceased tribal elders order avoid retribution spirits acting behalf dead animal early years dutch southern africa referred wolves colonists especially susceptible trapping lack caution enclosed spaces worked feature frontier farms trap roughly constructed stone wood meat trap featured trap door designed shut bait disturbed cape colony spotted hunted tracking shooting escaped hunting method trap stabbing heart long knife chased hunting dogs spotted attack dogs exceptionally large powerful breeds james hamilton wrote wounded spotted dangerous adversaries hunting dogs recording incident managed kill dog single bite neck breaking skin difficulties killing spotted dogs include species thick skin prevents dogs inflicting damage animal muscles spotted captivity pets point view easily kept disease problems uncommon captive reach years age spotted historically represented typically obtained order fill prestigious species obtained subsequent years animals considered charismatic allocated larger better quality facilities relegated inferior exhibits modern times species faces spatial competition popular animals especially large captive individuals closely examined confirm sexes resulting non breeding pairs turning individuals result captive populations facing extinction 19th century species frequently displayed travelling alfred wrote spotted harder striped performing specimens standard sir john described spotted trained hunt game writing faithful common domestic dogs spotted cubs taken communal den order increase social status april bbc article described shepherd living small town kilometres managed use male spotted livestock guardian dog suppressing urge leave find mate feeding special herbs raised adult members kind captive spotted exhibit scent marking later life wild specimens easily spotted difficult house train destructive captive perfectly specimen tower london managed tear foot long nailed recently repaired enclosure floor apparent effort research leading composition monograph spotted study predation social behavior kept named solomon found solomon company kept solomon taste cheese bar tourist lounge bacon chief park warden breakfast table door hold solomon obliged live days edinburgh zoo


genus common known members family family oceanic recent molecular studies genus contains species common pacific instead research revealed species inhabit warm temperate seas worldwide live groups typically members called pods group size varies single individuals consist mainly forage fish work team harvest fish schools hunt individually search prey primarily similar sounds listen return determine location shape nearby items including potential prey use sound communication including emitted sounds emitted body language water tails water surface numerous investigations intelligence conducted examining use artificial language object self recognition use tools transmit cultural knowledge generations considerable intelligence driven interaction humans popular shows television programs trained locate sea mines detect mark enemy divers areas cooperate local fishermen driving fish nets eating fish escape encounters humans harmful people hunt food killed inadvertently fishing getting caught crab traps second largest levels earth humans largest sharing close humans great likely attributes incredibly high intelligence emotional intelligence taxonomy scientists long aware consist species molecular allowed greater insight previously problem iucn acknowledges species distinct species described common found tropical temperate oceans grey color shade grey varying populations bluish grey brownish grey nearly black darker dorsal fin black_sea subspecies lives black_sea pacific subspecies lives pacific black line eye forehead pacific lives waters india northern australia south china red_sea eastern coast africa dark grey belly lighter grey nearly white grey spots found port lakes areas victoria australia described september research showed distinct considered separate species iucn common western north_atlantic represented shallower water coastal offshore ranges overlap shown genetically distinct currently described separate species subspecies general genetic variation populations significant nearby populations result genetic variation distinct species currently considered populations common possible old scientific data distinguish species making useless determining structural differences iucn lists species data red list endangered species issue recent genetic evidence suggests pacific belongs genus like atlantic spotted common hybrids known species hybrids occur wild captivity best known false killer whale hybrid fertile currently live sea life park hawaii born female exist wild captivity rough toothed common hybrid born captivity lives california hybrids live captivity world wild atlantic spotted hybrid description grey varying dark grey near dorsal fin light grey white underside makes hard swimming adults range metres kilograms males average slightly longer considerably heavier females parts world adults kilograms size varies considerably habitat eastern pacific warmer shallower waters tend smaller cooler waters live years anatomy elongated upper lower jaws form called snout gives animal common real functional nose head nasal visible open conical teeth jaw tail dorsal fin formed dense tissue contain bone muscle animal moving pectoral sides body steering contain bones land mammals discovered japan additional pectoral fins hind legs tail size human pair hands scientists believe caused ancient trait form physiology senses colder waters body fat blood suited deeper diving typically research area restricted north_atlantic ocean typically swim capable bursts higher speeds sustained short time senses search food aided form known objects producing sounds listening burst pulse sounds emitted focused beam hear returning echo small ear openings eyes sound waves transmitted inner ear lower jaw object interest approached echo grows adjust decreasing intensity emitted sounds contrasts bats reduce sensitivity sound interval decreases animal target evidently waits click echo details signal strength qualities discrimination understood researchers able extract shape information suggesting able form image sound picture targets sharp eyes located sides head reflecting membrane aids vision dim light shaped double pupils enable good vision air underwater despite different media water lens serves focus light air environment typically bright light serves contract specialized pupil resulting smaller similar camera contrast sense smell poor nose closed underwater opens breathing nerves lobe brain able detect sweet bitter sour acid tastes studied individuals captivity noted preferences food fish types clear taste preference communication communicate burst sounds body language examples body language include water snapping jaws tail surface heads sounds gestures help track group alert danger nearby food lacking vocal produce sounds air near blow hole animal uniquely identifying frequency narrow band signature signature whistle researchers research institute based italy shown burst sounds vital animals social life mirror behaviors whistle sounds ones allow stay contact mothers offspring coordinate hunting strategies burst sounds complex varied avoid physical aggression situations high excitement competing piece food example sounds presence individuals moving prey dominant soon moves away avoid confrontation communication uses distinguishable sounds famously proposed john 1950s language found richards demonstrated artificial language named phoenix period skepticism animal language following terrace critique intelligence abilities investigated include concept formation sensory skills mental representations research ongoing 1970s includes acoustic novel sequences artificial language memory monitoring self behavior discrimination matching symbols body parts pointing gestures gaze humans mirror self recognition numerical values tool use culture wild use tools shark bay place marine presumably protect searching food sandy sea observed bay predominantly practiced females sea known marine tool users study showed mothers likely teach behavior offspring culture behavior learned species members mud feeding feeding technique performed small community shallow beds florida keys united_states behavior involves creation shaped mud water column rushing capture fish beaches tidal marshes south_carolina georgia united_states herd prey fish steep sandy banks practice known strand feeding groups regularly observed creating bow wave force fish water follow fish briefly eat prey twisting bodies forth order slide water cooperate human fishermen drive school fish shore humans await nets confusion casting nets catch large number fish cooperative foraging observed behaviors transmitted teaching proposed structure study culture similar cases observed santa brazil 19th century near adelaide south_australia tail walk elevate upper bodies vertically water propel surface powerful tail movements tail walking arises human training 1980s female local population kept local weeks scientist suggests copied tail walking behavior wild adult female copied researchers intelligence number nerve cells brain number unknown species highest number known date long pilot whale life history sleep single located dorsal surface head consisting hole muscular closed muscle opens voluntary deliberately surface open air store twice oxygen proportion body weight human store oxygen body weight compared humans adaptation diving typically rises surface breathe times minute remain submerged minutes breathe half asleep sleeping cycle brain hemisphere remains active hemisphere active hemisphere handles breathing behavior daily sleeping cycle lasts hours minutes hours sleeping cycle remain near surface swimming slowly logging occasionally closing eye reproduction sexes slits underside bodies male conceal female houses females slits housing ability reproductive organs especially males allows maximum breeding season produces significant changes males time enabling hold sperm large amounts sperm allow male wash away previous sperm leaving sperm concentration markedly increases having sperm season social mating means suggests sperm production expensive males large relation body size breeding season males compete access females competition form fighting males females prevent access males shark bay male observed working pairs larger groups follow restrict movement female weeks time waiting sexually receptive known male reproductive alliances fight control females mating occurs belly belly observed engaging intercourse females cycles produce young suggesting mate pleasure gestation period averages months occur time year peaks occur warmer months young born shallow water assisted possibly male usually single born twins possible rare newborn long weigh pacific generally smaller common accelerate nursing mother milk months years continues closely associate mother years females sexually mature ages males ages females reproduce years georgetown university professor argues strong personal behavior male bond formation benefits species evolutionary context cites studies showing adults early bonds aid protection locating females social interaction adult males live groups join pods short periods time adult females young normally live groups animals live fusion societies varying group size individuals change associations daily hourly basis group compositions usually determined sex age reproductive condition relations affiliation histories community near florida common group types adults females recent offspring older sexes adult males pairs smaller groups join form larger groups occasionally exceed social strategies marine mammals provide interesting parallels social strategies elephants studied research institute researchers island random social behavior feeding social behavior depend feeding activity presence floating marine fin fish farm linked change distribution result high fish density floating farming area ecology feeding diet consists mainly small fish crustaceans squid varies location populations share appetite fish drum families cone like teeth serve grasp food encounter fish work team herd shore maximize harvest hunt targeting dwelling species hits fish knocking water strategy called fish strand feeding inherited feeding technique near coastal regions georgia south_carolina pod finds school fish circle school trap fish mini charge school push bodies mud flat forcing fish mud flat crawl sides consuming fish washed shore type feeding behavior seen mud ring feeding conflict small scale coastal commercial fisheries mediterranean areas common probably attracted fishing nets offer concentrated food source relations species exhibit behaviour sea creatures beach new_zealand march sperm female stranded beach including department conservation officer smith attempted times shortly playful known local residents arrived apparently led open sea saving imminent behave aggressively males fight rank access females mating season males compete vigorously displays size series acts head display aggression sharks smaller species population scotland practiced attacked killed harbour university researchers eat victims simply competing food read duke university expert researching similar cases killings occurred virginia holds different view states feed different types fish food competition unlikely cause killings similar behaviour observed ireland half july attacks fatalities observed caught video bay marine wildlife centre bay forms mixed species groups species family particularly larger species short pilot whale false killer whale interact smaller species atlantic spotted rough toothed interactions smaller species hostile predators large shark species tiger shark shark great white shark bull shark prey especially capable defending charging predator behavior sharks occasionally prove fatal shark targeting single adult dangerous shark similar size killer whale populations new_zealand peru observed rare swim swimming pods allows better defend predators use complex strategies predators techniques batter predator death force flee relation humans interaction species shows curiosity humans near water occasionally rescue injured divers raising surface help injured members species november dramatic report intervention came new_zealand swimming coast near approached shark reportedly great white shark swimmers surrounded minutes preventing shark attacking slowly swam shore coastal regions run risk boats researchers research institute data solitary diving behavior presence absence boats responded tourist fishing vessels driving behavior speed engine type separation distance affect safety areas humans example town south brazil pod drives fish fishermen stand beach shallow waters rolls fishermen throw nets feed escaping fish trained behavior collaboration began similar cooperative fisheries exist africa commercial encounter enterprises tours operate countries documentary film cove documents captured sold enterprises remaining pod slaughtered addition endeavors individuals swim surface near beach perform generating controversy animal welfare activists scientists claimed adequate space receive adequate care notably counter properly cared enjoy interacting humans lived marine life mississippi swept away pool hurricane katrina later found returned captivity gulf_of_mexico military united_states russia train military wartime tasks locating sea mines detecting enemy divers program navy marine program located san_diego cultural influence popular television created portrayed friendly relationship boys sandy understood english hero tell dad trouble hurry theme song contains lyric television based film remade feature film starring wood paul second series running starring television appearances include cove madagascar doctor villain hbo movie female befriends male dog bermuda triangle girl named annie played lisa human interaction segments shot location florida keys research center seen halloween episode simpsons horror tale directed charles martin smith starring harry morgan freeman based real life story winter rescued crab trap december lost tail learned swim prosthetic tale sequel film featured named hope appearance hamilton sequel released september appeared novels guide galaxy sequels long thanks fish try warn humans earth impending destruction behavior playful central david series universe novels particularly rising earth species dogs primary characters anne series especially incorporated science fiction video game series featured video game search helping boy adam find sea king sperm whale assisting cleaning underwater environment lives miami mascot uses mascot team logo factual descriptions date antiquity writings aristotle elder mention species threats captured killed drive hunts meat eliminate competition fish capture marine parks species travel caught nets kill products led concept safe labeling fishing methods avoid man chemical acid immune system affects immune system male mice concentration reported excess high levels metal measured tissues areas globe recent study found high levels mercury south_australia levels later found associated kidney indicating possible health effects high heavy metal concentrations conservation endangered future stable abundance specific populations threatened environmental changes population scotland estimated consist individuals threat harassment traumatic injury water pollution reduction food availability likewise isolated population doubtful sound new_zealand decline loss increase warm freshwater discharge local climate change increasing water temperature play role shown case largest coastal populations shark bay western_australia forecast stable little variation mortality time waters hunting marine mammals forbidden circumstances passing marine protection act


mouse mouse species mouse known forest eastern madagascar near national park discovery announced german research team forest studied sur les madagascar based research conservation group named forest based genetic studies measurements photos research team confirmed mouse species distinct mouse found kilometre away mouse significantly larger weighing average compared mouse weighs mouse closest relative neighbor south larger differs tail length recently discovered species little known behavior communication ecology reproduction species appears restricted small region lowland rain forest seriously threatened forest loss evolutionary taxonomic history mouse discovered german members organization sur les madagascar previously lowland forest known forest eastern madagascar near national park recorded specimen species captured june released genetic samples measurements photographs taken time recognized distinct species mouse measured recorded physical specimen obtained publication initial study discovery published journal species named research conservation team described mouse differed genetically physically nearest neighboring mouse species tail longer closest relative mouse lives south tail shorter higher body mass generally larger mouse weighs mouse exhibits significant genetic differences northern neighbor mouse tests initially conducted focused different mitochondrial dna partial loop region loop analysis suggested mouse mouse closest relative forming sister group tests showed mouse sampled formed clade exclusive family group species sufficiently distinct mouse authors concluded molecular morphological differences supported declaration new species based phylogenetic species concept conservative taxonomic approach anatomy physiology mouse mouse larger bodied long tail store fat fur darker brownish gray broad reddish line middle compared varies light gray white extends throat outer arms legs contrast rest body darker color fingers sparse whitish gray fur head reddish color darker brown surrounding eyes noticeable white stripe nose eyes ears prominent small dark brown edges tail covered dense long brownish gray fur short dense guard hairs skin visible hands feet colored pinkish brown mouse weighs tail length approximately large bodied mouse belongs group large mouse weighing grams including eastern species mouse mouse northern mouse mouse species western mouse claire mouse mouse mouse golden brown mouse gray mouse reddish gray mouse larger mouse species long tail mouse exception mouse gray mouse ears small measuring mouse species contrast larger mouse dry western forests averaging mouse body mass differences sexes larger samples needed confirm behavior data available concerning behavior communication ecology reproduction mouse data help support species status distribution habitat mouse identified forest eastern madagascar east national park south city indian_ocean forest fragment km2 surrounded secondary forest growing areas previously cut rice cultivation known locally forest ranges sea level nearby national park home closest neighboring mouse population mouse ranges sea level major rivers separate highland lowland forests respective mouse populations initial study conclude large river smaller rivers north acts species boundary mouse mouse north approximately south lies river large river acts barrier species genetically distinct form mouse south river geographic range mouse unlikely extend south river studies needed confirm total area rivers north south highlands west ocean east larger km2 smaller island puerto_rico likely extent geographic range conservation status protected areas known geographic range mouse lives lowland forests likely converted agricultural land relative highland faces elevated conservation risk km2 potential geographic range small parts remain forested


extinct bat madagascar genus known numerous jaws teeth collected cave described new species site found years old parts cave yielded living species madagascar material distinct species larger making largest bat madagascar broader robust lower jaw usual second upper small displaced second lower large taxonomy distribution team led biologist david collected containing bats animals cave northwestern madagascar bats sample described karen previously paper found living species addition extinct ones described new genus assigned contains living species madagascar specific big chin material locality cave years old younger analysis morphological data suggests closely related mainland african previously included somewhat found material sites assign old years old single fourth upper found dimensions different seen lacking inner corner present species assigned specimen estimated years old lower lower found teeth resemble distinct assigned species locality dated contained teeth isolated jaws showed measurements distinct species rendering assignment material doubtful referred description known numerous jaw bones isolated teeth material identifiable dental formula upper left right lower left right second upper shifted skull touch nearly touch second lower large broad steep outer analysis shows significantly different falls outside substantial variation species particular upper broader lower jaw robust bats robust associated diet includes hard objects largest bat madagascar position filled smaller jaws bones house single located tip end shape margin narrow point margin inside large opening anterior bone contains upper teeth ranges thin robust houses lower teeth teeth upper small flat crowned weakly divided single large present smaller shelf small contains high smaller inner shelf high length averages standard width upper basin tooth closed second similar smaller squared smaller reduced crown pattern resembling lower jaw small lower high narrow second lower large tooth high central high connecting edges second smaller present crest fourth high central addition smaller roots tooth roots lower large tooth complex high lower highest lower equally high shelves low second similar smaller smaller reduced length averages width


bare tailed bare tailed south_america described swedish zoologist bare tailed characterized gray head brown gray coat orange gray underside partially naked tail nocturnal active mainly night solitary hardly social interaction mother juveniles mating pairs nests tree litter size ranges seven gestation lasts days juveniles exit months occurs month later bare tailed inhabits subtropical forests secondary forests plantations range extends northern venezuela northeastern brazil iucn concern taxonomy bare tailed members placed family order described swedish zoologist 10th edition given present american zoologist allen revision phylogeny grouped del tailed single subfamily noting dental similarities study argued similarities result evolution placed new subfamily similar revision tailed placed subfamily following subspecies recognized wagner occurs brazil wagner occurs eastern southeastern brazil occurs east rio negro brazil south river venezuela thomas occurs trinidad north river venezuela based study shows phylogenetic relationships bare tailed description bare tailed characterized brown gray coat gray head orange gray underside partially naked tail base distinctive narrow dark brown stripe runs eyes ears tip nose ears similar broad streaks run brown rings eye grayish fur separates stripes ears large coat thick soft flanks dorsal hairs continue centimetres tail naked suggests tail dark brown end spotted white dark brown terminating white yellowish white tip size appears decrease venezuela mean weight grams venezuela grams head body length typically centimetres ears measure centimetres tail centimetres hind feet centimetres dental formula typical ecology behavior bare tailed nocturnal active mainly night difficult observe capture successfully studied detail study showed activity bare tailed affected extent activity males dropped new moon moon increasing exposure activity females remained largely unaffected tree living good study showed tail act additional limb avoiding falls carrying leaves build nests builds nests dry leaves tree individuals tend aggressive distress calls accompany behavior largely solitary interactions observed mother juveniles mating pair primary forest french mean home range size calculated hectares ranges sexes overlapped extensively size home ranges influenced environmental factors forage availability individual needs click common produced young adults bare tailed like species bite handled escape predators predators include diet bare tailed feeds fruits vegetables small birds reptiles study foraging behavior bare tailed showed feed variety plants choose plants abundance similar preferences favor certain plant parts certain times year notable difference focused plants wide distribution bare tailed fed common plants reproduction french females mate successfully year old females litters year food scarce gestation lasts days longest young come months occurs months study french showed development offspring slow days days litter size ranges seven newborn weigh weight increases grams exiting offspring sheltered nests mother regularly visits nursing distribution status bare tailed inhabits subtropical forests secondary forests plantations prefers dense cover seen occur altitude metres sea level range extends northern venezuela eastward northeastern brazil includes french island trinidad iucn bare tailed concern wide distribution presumably large population survival threatened habitat loss