Species

A collection of animal species from around the world.

*Sources for information and photos (unless they are by me) can be found at the bottom of each species profile.

Mammal, Japan Alexander Julius Jensen Mammal, Japan Alexander Julius Jensen

Japanese Serow

Often described as ghostly, the elusive Japanese serow lives in the wooded mountains of central and southern Japan. Typically solitary, it stands on rocky outcrops, staring down at the landscape for extended periods — likely watching for predators or rivals. It can be active both day and night.

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Bird, Asia Alexander Julius Jensen Bird, Asia Alexander Julius Jensen

Spotted Owlet

While the spotted owlet is nocturnal, it can sometimes be seen during the day — it will bob its head and stare intensely at anyone who bothers it. This owlet can be located by watching for the small birds that often mob it or — during dusk and dawn — by the owlet's “chirurr-chirurr-chirurr” chuckle.

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Reptile, East Asia Alexander Julius Jensen Reptile, East Asia Alexander Julius Jensen

Chinese Softshell Turtle

The Chinese softshell turtle uses its tubelike nostrils to "snorkel" while staying submerged beneath the water. Most turtles urinate through their cloacas, but to avoid losing water, the Chinese softshell can secrete urea from its mouth — essentially peeing via its mouth.

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Mammal, Philippines Alexander Julius Jensen Mammal, Philippines Alexander Julius Jensen

Visayan Warty Pig

A male Visayan warty pig can become four times larger than a female. During mating season, the male uses his tusks for combat and three pairs of warty growths on his face for defence — he also grows a 23 cm (9 in) long mane to attract females. The species is only found on two Philippine islands.

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Mammal, Japan Alexander Julius Jensen Mammal, Japan Alexander Julius Jensen

Japanese Badger

Endemic to Japan, the Japanese badger — like other badgers — lives in underground dens called "setts". However, the Japanese badger is known to be more solitary, with even mated pairs often living in separate setts. It is currently unknown why this is the case.

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