Mammals

With powerful jaws, massive paws and piercing claws, the leopard is built for hunting. But how can this cat possibly take down animals three times its size?

By Cristen Conger

Avoiding eye contact is a form of body language (and a sign you're probably lying). Gazelles might not use body language to lie, but they do rely on it to survive.

By Jennifer Horton

When cats go swimming, is it still considered doggy paddling? Tigers might not be invited to your next pool party, but they sure do love taking a dip.

By Cristen Conger

It takes brains to tan leather is and we're not just talking keen intellect and skill. Sometimes that soft, supple feel of leather literally comes from using the old noggin.

By Cristen Conger

Vindictive whales like Moby Dick sometimes give these giants of the sea a bad rap. But whales do a lot for their ecosystem, especially after they go to Davy Jones' locker.

By Cristen Conger

What? You've never heard of a narwhal? Well, it's a cold-water-dwelling, deep-diving, vocalizing, halibut-munching wonder with its very own ivory crown. Did we mention its crazy tusk?

By Katie Lambert

Loners might seem intriguing, but they lead dangerous lives -- a least those in the wolf world do. Lone wolves are outsiders, relying only on themselves to survive without a pack.

By Cristen Conger

Riddle me this: Why are bats showing up dead with a white powder streaked across their faces? Could a poorly understood fungus wipe them out? To the bat cave, readers!

By Cristen Conger

So far, "Planet of the Apes" is pure fiction. But are chimps capable of learning human language (and eventually taking over the world)?

By Cristen Conger

Million-dollar endorsement deals or a sneaker named the Air Roo aren't in the cards for kangaroos. Since these animals can't play in any Final Four championships, why do they hop?

By Cristen Conger

These reindeer won't find any candy canes or fruitcake buried in the frozen tundra. So how do these animals find enough food to sustain them through such extreme weather?

By Cristen Conger

Elephants have amazing memories and are known to hold grudges for years against those who have wronged them. So, be careful who you're calling Dumbo.

By Cristen Conger

Animals may not have access to spice racks, but does that mean they don't enjoy flavorful meals? Have Japanese monkeys discovered the joy of cooking, or is this a culinary myth?

By Cristen Conger

Plagued by negative images and slanderous tales, wolves could use the help of a good publicist. Will positive news like wolves help strengthen the ecosystem override age-old fears and misconceptions?

By Cristen Conger

What's a full moon without the cry of a wolf echoing in the background? Are wolves really howling at the moon or just talking among themselves?

By Cristen Conger

Wolves are wild predators and could kill your beloved Fido for a tasty meal. But will these animals come after you, or do they prefer a drama-free neighborhood?

By Cristen Conger

Contrary to popular belief, the leaders of a wolf pack aren't always hyper-aggressive social climbers. The truth is more nuanced, and more interesting.

By Cristen Conger & Mark Mancini

Wolves may be a close relative of man's best friend, but we wouldn't recommend trying to befriend these wild canines. Check out this wolf image gallery to learn all about different wolf species and their habits.

By Marie Bobel

This big cat image gallery shows you a wide variety of these carnivorous felines. From the well known tiger and lion to the lesser known serval and margay, learn about these big cats and their relatives.

By Marie Bobel

Though some things aren't always black and white, zebras remain the exception. These animals are known for their classic colors, but are zebras black with white stripes or white with black?

By Cristen Conger

A good portion of a giraffe's height comes from its statuesque neck. But how do these lanky creatures get their necks in such pretzel-like positions?

By Cristen Conger

The king of the jungle has been known to salivate at the sight of a tasty human. But are these stories of lions wreaking havoc on people in Africa true?

By Cristen Conger

Any animal that can go from zero to 40 mph in three strides must have a very specialized body. Why can cheetahs run so fast, and how does their ability make them vulnerable?

By Julia Layton

If you can get past a koala's pungent scent of urine and mating-musk, you might detect a faint hint of cough drops. Why do koalas smell like they'd clear out your sinuses?

By Julia Layton

Dog shows aren't the only places you'll hear barking and clapping. Seals and sea lions welcome beachgoers with their uproarious get-togethers. But how do you tell the difference between the two?

By Jessika Toothman