Animal Spotlight: California Condor

The California condor (Gymnogyps californianus) is a New World Vulture and the largest North American land bird. The species decline throughout the 20th century, and was eventually declared extinct in the wild in 1987, as the last wild individuals were captured. The critically endangered California Condor was first described by English naturalist George Shaw in 1797.

Animal Spotlight: Pacific Angelshark

The pacific angelshark (Squatina Californica) is a bottom dwelling-shark belonging to the family Squatinidae. It has a handful of common names, most notably 'monk fish', which refers to the shape of its head that resembles a monk's hood. The pacific angelshark was first described by American physician and ichthyologist, William Orville Aryes in the year 1859.

Animal Spotlight: Hirola

Hirola (Beatragus Hunteri), also known as Hunter's hartebeest or Hunter's antelope, is a critically endangered antelope discovered by zoologist H.C.V Hunter in the year 1888. It is arguably the most endangered large mammal on the African continent.

Animal Spotlight: Saiga Antelope

The saiga antelope (Saiga Tatarica) is a critically endangered antelope from Eurasia. Severe winters followed by summer droughts in recent years have made it difficult for its population to recover. Saiga is the Russian name for this antelope.

Animal Spotlight: Markhors

Hey readers! This blog is going to post fun facts about weird animals in Animal Spotlights. Sit back and enjoy!

Markhors (Capra Falcneri) are a large species of wild goat. Their name is thought to be from Persian, meaning 'snake eater'. It can be an interpretation of its ability to kill snakes or its spiral horns that seemingly resemble coiling snakes.