Weird Animals Found Around the World

Madison Hays and Hannah Goldman

     We all love our typical furry friends; cats, dogs, hamsters, and so much more! However, many people do not know about the less common animals around the world. These animals do not get the popularity they should for their odd talents and cute faces.  

This first animal is the Dhole, and looks very similar to a fox. The Dhole is a carnivore, with a special taste for dogs. While this may seems sad this animal may eat your family dog, their cuteness makes up for it. The ears of this gorgeous species sits on top of their head like a rainbow. Dholes live up to sixteen years of age in Southeast Asia. Their fur is a certain color depending on the habitat. This adaptation allows them to blend in with their surroundings as camouflage. Most Dholes’ fur is a shade of reddish orange. They can hunt prey in groups for hours. This species is well known for their ability to swim and communicate among others.

Tarsiers are brown with big eyes and long fingers. These animals scientific name is Tarsiidae. These little animals live two – 12 years, and are very little with the mass of 2.8 – 5.6 oz, and weight of 16 millimeters in diameter. Scientist believe that this animal dates back to 40 million years ago and around 18 species. Tarsiers are found in a number of South to East Asian islands. These animals are carnivores, preying on insects and lizards. With this, they have predators of cats, snakes, and birds. These animals are not well known, however still out there.

This next animal is a breed of dwarf antelope and goes by the name of Dik Dik. It’s long legs can elevate the 30 – 40 centimeters in the air. Native to Africa, the Dik Dik tends to be on the small side, as it is usually smaller than the average household dog. This dwarf factor of the Dik Dik allows it to be prey to many, larger, more threatening species. Even though they are eaten by carnivores, they are herbivores, sticking to a fruit and vegetable diet. Instead of living in herds like many other species, the Dik Dik lives in pairs. The Dik Dik also marks it scent with preorbital glandular fluid, which is very similar to tears. When they are scared, they run in zig zags and up to 46 miles per hour.

         The Sunda Colugo has a scientific name of Galeopterus Variegatus. These weird species glide from tree to tree and are found in South East Asia. The Sunda Colugo is a great climber, however, when on the ground, they are helpless. This animal fits into the lemur family with a tail 24 – 25 centimeters, and body length of 34 – 38 centimeters. This animal is very unique and protected by the national legislation.

While these animals may not be the most well known, they are certainly cute, unique, and have their own distinct characteristics and survival skills. There is a wide range of creatures on this earth to learn about.