African wild dogs are also known as "Cape hunting dogs" or “painted dogs” for their unique mottled coats. These highly social animals share some qualities with domestic dogs, wolves, and other canines, but are not closely related to our four-legged best friends. In fact, they are in a distinct genus from domestic dogs and wolves.
The loudest voices in the ocean may be the gregarious sea lion. Though clumsy on land, this marine mammal is a strong swimmer and diver, aided by its oar-like flippers and torpedo-shaped body. Sea lions are considered “pinnipeds,” which means “feather-footed” and refers to their long, flat hands and feet.
Lemurs are a type of primate—the order that includes monkeys, apes, and humans—found exclusively in Madagascar. The collared lemur is a subspecies of brown lemur, and gets its name from its orangey beard. These lemurs are also well known for their strong scent, which they use as a communication calling card.
The fossa, pronounced “foosh,” is one of Madagascar’s top predators and its largest mammalian carnivore. A relative of the mongoose, it looks a lot like a miniature puma. Local folklore has given fossas a bad rap—but perhaps they’re feared most by the lemurs, their favorite prey!
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